President Dr Irfaan Ali has called on the Guyana–Canada Chambers of Commerce (GCCC) to evolve beyond its traditional role as a platform for trade and become a strategic partner in helping businesses in both countries climb the value chain.
Delivering the keynote address at the GCCC’s Maple Leaf Gala and Dinner held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Thursday evening, the President described the future of the Canada–Guyana trade corridor as “dynamic, diversified, and forward-looking.”
He said the relationship must move towards a phase “where refined commodities and jewellery join Canadian showcases; where Guyanese-made foods, beverages, and craft products reach Canadian markets; where Canadian technology powers Guyana’s industries; and where both nations exchange services, ideas, and people in a seamless partnership of progress.”
President Ali urged the Chamber and private sector stakeholders to position themselves to take advantage of this expanding trade landscape, noting that the partnership should focus on innovation, sustainability, and mutual benefit.
The Head of State also encouraged investors to look towards Guyana’s growing tourism sector, pointing to several major initiatives in the pipeline. These include Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for 11 new tourism projects across multiple regions, designed to stimulate regional development and diversify the country’s economy.
He further announced that a new EOI will soon be issued for the construction of a regional airport in Lethem, which will be supported by 2,000 hectares of surrounding development — particularly in agro-processing and related industries.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, several Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, and senior Government officials also attended the gala event, which celebrated the growing commercial and cultural ties between Guyana and Canada.
The post President Ali calls on Guyana–Canada Chamber to drive value-added trade, tourism growth appeared first on News Room Guyana.
