The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) intends to push for more development and support in the manufacturing sector when it hosts “Impak Manufacturers’ Summit” in March 2024.

GMSA President, Ramsay Ali said the summit will address rapid developments in the Manufacturing and Services Industries as Guyana moves to address its energy deficiency with the execution of a gas-to-energy project as well as a hydro power plant.

He said it will also take into account the expansion of existing industries and the birth of new ones, and their impact on the Manufacturing and Services Industries.

“As a result of this, we are hoping to see some new industries or businesses set up operation in Guyana or local partnerships created with regional and international marketing firms. Given its important markets in both North and South America, Guyana is an ideal location for businesses,” the GMSA President said.

According to the GMSA Head, a number of manufacturing associations from within the Caribbean will be participating in the Summit including those from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados and Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis and St Lucia.

“Their participation will contribute to the diversity of perspectives at the summit and highlight the collective effort to strengthen the manufacturing sector in the Caribbean. As the country continues to attract foreign investments, and develop its infrastructure, it is crucial to leverage the experience and the expertise of the neighbouring countries to drive innovation and competitiveness,” Ali said.

He said summit will present a unique opportunity for local manufacturers to gain valuable insights and establish connections and partnerships with their regional counterparts that can drive further development in the industry.  

Access to finance, investment opportunities, supply chain and market expansion are among topics on the agenda as well as the existing labour shortage and the energy needs of the country. He said government’s policies and trade issues will also come into focus during the two-day summit.

“Another significant topic that will be addressed is government’s policies and trade issues which are pressing concerns among Caribbean countries. It is imperative that we have open and constructive discussions about trade barriers and the potential collaboration between neighbouring nations to overcome these challenges,” the GMSA President said.

President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kester Huston said the Chamber is pleased to be part of the summit. He said a large percentage of its close to 900 members, also form part of the GMSA.

Hutson said the summit will provide a platform for businesses in Guyana to advance discussions on policies that would create an environment for growth and further development.

The summit will be held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on March 21 and 22, 2024.

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