New GNBS Laboratory and Administrative building Commissioned

The new US$12 Million laboratory facility and administrative building for the Guyana National Bureau of Standards was commissioned at the National Exhibition Centre on Wednesday by the President.

The new laboratory facility and administrative building was constructed with funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). It will provide expanded calibration, testing and certification services.

President Ali said through the state-of-the-art lab, GNBS will help Guyanese businesses maintain regional and international standards that are key to sustaining a modern economy.

“As we move into manufacturing, industrial development, agro-processing, we have to be able to have in house capacity, in country capacity and capability to do the testing, to do the accreditation of the products because this lab and this facility will carry with it the international accreditation that allows our local products to fit into international markets by having the accreditation here locally. So, our entire future that we are building that rests on an international market place requires this foundational investment,” the President said.

Mr. Ali also said that it is imperative for international standards to be adopted and maintained in the industries across the country. He noted that whether it is the Agriculture, Manufacturing or the Oil and Gas sector, consistency is key to expanding the country’s market share globally.

“You would hear people telling you that there is inconsistency in your goods, there is inconsistency in your measurement, there is inconsistency in your quality, there is inconsistency in your service, but if we apply standards then it allows us to build standardization and consistency in product, which is important for market share and market trust and market credibility,” President Ali said.

He said the GNBS will play an even greater role in Local Content development by helping local companies achieve international standards and certification to partner with global companies in the Oil and Gas Industry.

IDB Country Representative, Loena Solorzano Salazar said the facility will help to strengthen the country’s Private Sector by helping businesses to capitalize on various opportunities.

Salazar said the lab will undoubtedly enhance the country’s quality infrastructure for economic diversification and trade promotion.

“Guyana continues to experience robust economic growth primarily driven by the growing of the oil industry but also Guyana is on the path to ensure sustainable development by the diversification of its economy. The new laboratory will facilitate and play a pivotal role in these diversifications by providing essential services to multiple industries including construction, engineering, tourism, hospitality, food and health among others,” the IDB Country Representative explained.

Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond said the lab is testament of government’s commitment to strengthening standard and quality – key pillars for sustainable development and global competitiveness.

She said the facility will not only hep to support businesses but protect consumers, while building confidence in locally produced products and services.

“The Guyana National Bureau of Standards plays a vital role in ensuring that our local products and services meet international standard, and through its work in certification, training and technical assistance, GNBS has been helping businesses to improve quality, competitiveness and a big thing is to build consumer confidence,” Minister Walrond said.

She said the facility will significantly enhance GNBS capability to provide cutting edge services that will impact citizens, businesses and industries.