Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce Celebrates First Anniversary and Prepares for International Business Conference
President Chan Santokhi and Guyana’s Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, pose with members of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce
PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC -The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) says it will host an international Business Conference in Guyana in October.
Upcoming International Business Conference
The SGCC, celebrating its first anniversary, said the October 15-17 event will focus on manufacturing and agro-processing, among other sectors. It is expected to attract more than 200 companies from the two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries.
The SGCC is also anticipating the participation of more than 300 international companies and delegations from Curacao, Brazil, and the Caribbean.
Regional and international industry leaders will attend the three-day conference, forging new partnerships and stimulating regional business development.
First Anniversary Milestones
Regarding its first anniversary, the SGCC described the last 12 months as a period of success and growth.
“Since its virtual launch on August 31, 2023, the chamber has become an important player in regional economic development,” says the chief executive officer, Rahul Lildhar, one of the initiators of the chamber.
“We have built a vibrant network of collaboration and opportunities that strengthens both our business communities and our regional ties,” he said, adding that the first year has been one of cross-border collaboration and business growth.
The SGCC said it has since established contacts, promoted joint business interests, and provided a platform for dialogue and growth.
Advocacy Efforts
It said that advocacy focused on improving ferry service between neighboring countries and pushing for an online booking system. Also, promoting the double taxation agreement between the two countries and promoting a local content policy that benefits regional businesses in Suriname received attention.
Suriname’s ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal, said that the first anniversary is proof of the incredible progress made in promoting economic cooperation between the two CARICOM neighbors.
At the initiative of chairman Vishnu Doerga and Blankendal, the Startup Committee brought together companies from both countries, including Floor It Guyana, M. Sookhai & Co, Guyana Port Inc, Glasgow Law Firm, Creative Tech Hub Caribbean, Optiek Ninon, Fernandes Group and Elgawa.
“This strong foundation created a thriving platform for business collaboration and advocacy,” Lildhar said.
Conclusion
The SGCC has over a hundred members and has formed strong alliances with business support organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce?
A: The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that aims to promote economic cooperation between Suriname and Guyana.
Q: What is the purpose of the upcoming international business conference?
A: The conference aims to foster new partnerships and stimulate regional business development in the areas of manufacturing and agro-processing, among others.
Q: What are some of the advocacy efforts undertaken by the SGCC?
A: The SGCC has been advocating for improvements in ferry service between neighboring countries and pushing for an online booking system, as well as promoting the double taxation agreement and local content policy between the two countries.