Manufacturing Vision – Guyana Chronicle

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s ambitious vision for expanding Guyana’s manufacturing sector represents a bold step toward positioning the country as a regional economic powerhouse.
Leveraging the nation’s advantageous geographic location, expanding trade relations, and anticipated energy improvements, Guyana is on the verge of a manufacturing revolution—one that could redefine the nation’s industrial landscape for decades to come.

In his recent interview ahead of the International Business Conference (IBC), President Ali made it clear that Guyana’s future as a manufacturing hub is not just a lofty ideal but a concrete plan rooted in sound policy and investment.
With energy costs long being a critical barrier to industrial competitiveness, the government’s move to slash these costs in half through the flagship gas-to-energy project is nothing short of transformative. This initiative, coupled with the launch of a second power plant, will finally give Guyana the competitive edge needed to attract global manufacturing investments.

For years, Guyana has struggled with high energy costs that hindered its ability to compete in the global manufacturing sector. However, the government’s decisive action to remedy this issue through affordable and reliable energy could be a game-changer. By cutting costs and ensuring energy reliability, manufacturers will find Guyana not just a viable but an attractive option for expansion. This is further enhanced by the country’s strategic access to regional markets such as Brazil, Latin America, and CARICOM.
But energy is only one part of the equation. President Ali’s emphasis on upskilling the workforce signals a long-term commitment to building a skilled labour pool capable of supporting a modern, sophisticated manufacturing industry. The recognition that Guyana needs both local and foreign expertise, particularly in specialised fields, demonstrates a pragmatic approach to labor shortages that many developing nations face.

The upcoming IBC, which will bring together key players from the business communities of Guyana and Suriname, serves as a vital platform for fostering partnerships. President Ali has rightly encouraged local businesses to seize this opportunity and collaborate with international companies. These partnerships will marry local market knowledge and cultural understanding with foreign technology and capital—key ingredients to ensuring that Guyana’s manufacturing sector can compete on the world stage.
Yet, the importance of bilateral trade agreements and simplifying market access cannot be overstated. The president’s acknowledgment that ease of doing business is improving within the region sends a strong signal to potential investors that Guyana is serious about reducing bureaucratic red tape and promoting free trade. With streamlined access to markets, Guyana’s manufacturing sector stands poised to benefit from expanded regional and international trade.

Executive Director of the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA), Nizam Hassan, has underscored the significance of this conference as a gateway to new levels of business development. His vision of Guyana as a manufacturing destination for the Caribbean hinges on the availability of low-cost energy and a collaborative business environment. For local manufacturers, this is a rare opportunity to position themselves at the forefront of a burgeoning industry.
However, while the future looks promising, this transformation will not happen overnight. The private sector, government, and international partners must work hand in hand to turn this vision into reality. Local businesses must step up, invest in new technologies, and embrace the changing economic

landscape. The government must continue its efforts to enhance infrastructures, cut red tape, and ensure that energy and workforce improvements remain top priorities.
As we approach the IBC, it is evident that the future of Guyana’s manufacturing sector is filled with untapped potential. If realised, this vision could create thousands of jobs, stimulate economic growth, and finally establish Guyana as a leader in Caribbean manufacturing. The stage is set—now it’s up to the players to make the most of it.

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