Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Guyana, Ambassador René van Nes on March 26th announced plans for an EU trade mission here later this year.
Speaking at the EU – Guyana Chamber of Commerce’s first networking event, van Nes said that the trade mission aims to address specific issues such as forestry, timber, furniture, and pharmaceuticals, based on suggestions from Chamber members and stakeholders.
During the event, significant successes in matchmaking and lobbying for EU businesses in Guyana were noted. Addressing the gathering, Chamber Chairman Gregory Dean emphasized the growing interest from European companies outside of Guyana seeking support to enter the market, leading the Chamber to engage in matchmaking activities despite initially not intending to do so. He further highlighted the Chamber’s efforts to pivot and adapt its operations to cater to the specific needs of EU businesses in Guyana and those looking to establish a presence in the country.
Those at the event learned that in addition to matchmaking, the Chamber has been actively working to provide greater representation for EU businesses in Guyana through engagements with government agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Guyana Office for Investment. Dean also mentioned ongoing collaborations with other EU chambers in the region and bilateral chambers in Guyana to further support EU businesses.
According to Dean, since August 2022, the Chamber’s membership has seen growth. As such, businesses interested in opportunities in Guyana and Europe are encouraged to register via the Chamber’s website at www.ecc.gy . Dean assured attendees that the Chamber aims to serve as a networking platform, offering matchmaking services and lobbying support.
During the event, Chamber Administrator Pierre Gaté also spoke, highlighting such benefits, of doing business with the EU, as access to the largest market in the world with 500 million people. Gaté mentioned the CARIFORUM-EU Economic Partnership Agreements, which facilitate trade and investment between the two regions.
Overall, the EU – Guyana Chamber of Commerce’s first networking event showcased the Chamber’s commitment to supporting EU businesses in Guyana and promoting economic cooperation between the two regions.
The Chamber was established in November 2023. The event took place at Moray House on Camp Street, Georgetown.
