GNBS IN FOCUS NEWSLETTER NOV-DEC 2025

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards’ Bimonthly Newsletter

GNBS FOCUS IN

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 | @GNBSGY.ORG

VOLUME 06

ISSUE 03

GNBS HOSTS FIFTH NATIONAL QUALITY AWARDS

GNBS SPREADS HOLIDAY CHEER AT ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-UP National Exhibition Complex, Sophia, Georgetown | www.gnbsgy.org

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07 GNBS AWARDS CERTIFICATIONS TO MANUFACTURERS AND LABORATORIES

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GFSL JOINS GNBS CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME

GNBS RECEIVES PRESIDENT'S AWARD FROM GMSA

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GNBS HOSTS NATIONAL QUALITY AWARDS 2025

MALIYAH’S KITCHEN: A TASTE OF TRADITION MEETING EXCELLENT STANDARD REQUIREMENTS

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GNBS STANDARDS STRENGTHEN GUYANA’S TOURISM EXPERIENCES As Tourism Awareness Month was celebrated in November under the theme “Tourism: A Transformational Pillar of Guyana’s Economy,” the sector continues to flourish, driven by rising visitor arrivals, expanding accommodation, and diverse, authentic experiences across the country. Now more than ever, integrating standards into tourism services is essential to strengthen Guyana’s reputation as a premier destination. The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) supports this vision by providing essential standards that elevate service quality, streamline operations, and enhance the visitor experience.

Key standards underpin this growth, such as the Code of Practice for Tour Operators and Tour Guides which promotes professionalism; the Bed and Breakfast Facilities Standard that improves safety and comfort; and the Restaurant Service Quality Management Code, supporting food safety and efficiency. International standards such as ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 22000 further strengthen customer satisfaction, food safety, and consistency in the sector.

Additionally, through targeted training and technical assistance, GNBS empowers tourism operators to deliver consistent, high-quality services, ensuring Guyana’s tourism product stands out not only for its growth but for excellence at every touchpoint.

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Secure Your Certification Now. Apply Now! certification@gnbsgy.org WWW.GNBSGY.ORG

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219-0064-66

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FROM MITHAI TO WOODEN PRODUCTS: GNBS AWARDS SEVERAL MADE IN GUYANA STANDARDS MARK CERTIFICATES

BARAMA COMPANY LIMITED November and December recorded major wins for quality in Guyana as the GNBS celebrated excellence across local industries through the award and renewal of the Made in Guyana (MIG) Standards Mark Certificates. Barama Company Limited, Roy’s Extra Quality Products, Morning Glory Inc., Sand Flower Products, KSM Investments Inc., Sterling Products Limited, and Denmor Garments Manufacturing Inc. proudly continued their legacy of quality with the recertification of their locally manufactured products.

Meanwhile, Guyana Market International and Nandesar Manufacturing Enterprise achieved milestones with firsttime approvals to use the MIG Mark for a vibrant range of local favourites, ranging from Coconut Biscuits and Plantain Chips to Pepper Sauce and Tamarind Balls.

NANDESAR MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE

ROY’S EXTRA QUALITY PRODUCTS

SAND FLOWER PRODUCTS WWW.GNBSGY.ORG

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FROM MITHAI TO WOODEN PRODUCTS: GNBS AWARDS SEVERAL MADE IN GUYANA STANDARDS MARK CERTIFICATES

King's Jewellery World was re-certified for meeting the GYS 50:2022 Standard Specification for Gold Articles. When customers buy gold jewellery from King's Jewellery World, they can be assured that the products are tested and quality certified.

When businesses become certified by the GNBS, it is a bold statement to their customers that their products and services are meeting standards and established requirements that continuously ensure quality.

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JACOBS JEWELLERY RECEIVES GNBS CERTIFICATION Jacobs Jewellery was successfully certified by the GNBS for conforming to the requirements of the GYS 50:2022 Standard - Specification for Gold Articles.

During a brief ceremony held at the company’s location on Pike Street, the certificate was presented by GNBS Technical Officer Orlando Sturge and GNBS Head of Certification, ag. Keon Rankin, to General Manager Delon Caesar, in the presence of staff members and other attendees.

Customers can be assured that when purchasing gold jewellery from the establishment, they are receiving quality products.

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GNBS PARTICIPATES IN GUYANA’S LARGEST TRADESHOW - GUYEXPO 2025

The GNBS participated in this year’s GuyExpo, held at the National Exhibition Complex at Sophia from November 13–16, under the theme ‘Transformation through Entrepreneurship and Innovation.’

Joining forces with our sister agencies, including the Small Business Bureau, Guyana Tourism Authority, Department of Consumer Affairs, Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, and the Department of Tourism, the GNBS engaged visitors at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce’s booth.

Throughout the event, our team connected with numerous attendees, sharing insights on standards, calibration, testing, verification, certification, training, and more, highlighting how quality and innovation drive business growth and consumer confidence.

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GNBS CERTIFIES GUYANA FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY TO GYS 170 STANDARD In December, the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) was certified for successfully implementing the GYS 170:2021 Standard – General Requirements for the Operation of a Laboratory. This milestone represents a significant boost to the quality and reliability of forensic services in Guyana. The certification reinforces the laboratory’s dedication to accuracy, technical competence, and ongoing improvement in support of the justice system and public safety.

During the certification ceremony at the laboratory’s Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown location, GNBS Executive Director, Mr Trevor Bassoo, presented a plaque to Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr Andre Ally, while GNBS Head of Certification Services (ag), Mr Keon Rankin, presented the certificate to Director(ag) of GFSL Ms. Charis Griffith.

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SEVERAL LABS EARN RECERTIFICATION Additionally in December, Ultra Care Medical Centre Inc., Quest Medical Centre Inc., QualiTEST Medical Laboratory and Midway Specialty Care Centre Guyana earned recertification to the National Standard GYS 170:2021 – General Requirements for the Operation of a Laboratory, reaffirming their commitment to accurate, precise, and reliable medical testing.

RECERTIFICATION OF QUALITEST MEDICAL LABORATORY

GNBS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TREVOR BASSOO, HANDING OVER A PLAQUE TO PERMANENT SECRETARY OF THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS, ANDRE ALLY WWW.GNBSGY.ORG

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GNBS RECEIVES PRESIDENT'S AWARD FROM GMSA In December, the GNBS received the President’s Award from the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Limited. The award was formally presented by GMSA President, Rafeek Khan to the Bureau’s Deputy Executive Director, Ramrattie Karan.

The GNBS was recognised ‘for significantly strengthening local manufacturing capacity, enhancing competitiveness, and advancing the pursuit of excellence across industries.’

This award reflects the dedication of the GNBS team, the support of its partners, and the efforts of local businesses that continue to raise the bar for quality across Guyana.

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GNBS CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY

The GNBS proudly joined the world to celebrate International Men’s Day on November 19, recognising the strength, dedication, and resilience of men everywhere, including the outstanding men within the GNBS family.

As part of the celebration, staff came together for a special moment of appreciation, acknowledging the invaluable contributions our men make each day. Whether as leaders, mentors, colleagues, fathers, brothers, or friends, they continue to inspire excellence and uphold the values that drive our mission of quality, progress, and national development.

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GNBS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DELIVERS REMARKS AT GEORGEOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FORUM GNBS Executive Director, Mr Trevor Bassoo, delivered remarks at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Business Development Forum (BDF), which occurred on November 14, 2025, at the Pegasus Suites & Corporate Centre.

During the ‘Export Readiness and Market Expansion’ panel, Mr Bassoo shared insights on preparing products for export and entering new markets, offering entrepreneurs and business leaders practical guidance on meeting international standards and enhancing competitiveness.

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GNBS URGES CONSUMERS TO SHOP QUALITY FURNITURE & ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON Consumers can follow these tips to choose electrical appliances that are safe and highquality: Ensure your products are labelled in English Inspect cords, plugs and other attachments Avoid appliances with suspiciously lightweight or flimsy wiring Buy from reputable dealers registered with the GNBS Ask for warranty and after-sales service Test the appliance where possible Prioritise safety over style Ensure labels include manufacturer’s name and address, model number, voltage rating (110–240V) and certification marks Consumers can also follow these tips to purchase furniture that is stylish, safe, and highquality: Ensure the furniture is labelled in English Check for stability Choose durable materials Ensure all parts are included Look for clear care and use instructions Inspect for defects

GNBS - PROTECTING CONSUMERS THIS CHRISTMAS WWW.GNBSGY.ORG

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GNBS PROVIDES TRAINING TO STAKEHOLDERS The GNBS continues to equip business and public sector personnel with vital knowledge on standards and best practices. Training initiatives included courses on Understanding ISO 9001 Requirements, which includes several main clauses that define the framework for a quality management system for businesses.

Additionally, participants also joined the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) Quality Week Webinar, themed “The Hidden Work Behind Trust.” This engaging, interview-style session provided valuable insights into the often-unseen aspects of the work environment, covering areas such as standards, metrology, accreditation, and conformity assessment.

Training continued throughout November with the GNBS Lead Auditor Course, and the Risk Management training took place from November 25 to 26.

Training improves the competence of stakeholders implementing the requirements of national and international standards. Training initiatives are also essential for strengthening the skills and capacity of the GNBS team, ensuring staff work safely, confidently, and efficiently as they provide services to stakeholders.

To learn more about GNBS Training Programmes for 2026, visit: https://gnbsgy.org/businessdevelopment/training/

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GNBS INSPECTORS BENEFIT FROM SAFETY TRAINING

On November 21, the GNBS Inspectors from the Legal Metrology Services Department also participated in an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training facilitated by OSH Consultant Earl Morris. The session focused on the proper selection and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safe use and maintenance of body safety harnesses, and the operation of hoists, lifts, and cranes.

This training helped to strengthen their capacity to perform their duties safely, confidently, and efficiently, while reinforcing best practices for a safer work environment.

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GNBS HOSTS FIFTH NATIONAL QUALITY AWARDS (NQA); 35 BUSINESSES AWARDED On November 26, the GNBS proudly hosted its fifth and largest National Quality Awards, marking a milestone in celebrating excellence across local industries. This year, the event saw unprecedented participation, with 100 companies shortlisted for consideration.

Following rigorous assessments, 35 companies were recognised for outstanding performance in Customer Focus, Continuous Improvement, Environmental Initiatives, and Occupational Safety and Health, as well as overall winners in products and services.

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GNBS FIFTH NATIONAL QUALITY AWARDS (NQA); 35 BUSINESSES AWARDED Among the attendees were the Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, the Honourable Susan Rodrigues, Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, other government ministers, members of the diplomatic community and other organisations, alongside industry leaders.

In addition, the GNBS celebrated a significant achievement under its GNBS 901 Certification Programme, with the first three companies, Maliyah’s Kitchen, Qualitest Inc., and Evolve Business Solutions Inc., receiving certification. This programme supports a quality management system tailored for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, addressing critical occupational safety and health requirements, and providing a pathway to ISO 9001:2015 certification.

The NQA also underscored GNBS’s commitment to fostering quality, safety, and continuous improvement across Guyana’s business landscape.

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MALIYAH’S KITCHEN: A TASTE OF TRADITION MEETING EXCELLENT STANDARD REQUIREMENTS Mithai, sal sev, and fudge, timeless Guyanese favourites, are at the heart of Maliyah’s Kitchen, a homegrown business on Pike Street, Georgetown. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, founders Mark and Alyssa Singh turned their love for traditional snacks into a thriving enterprise, now proudly certified under the GNBS Made in Guyana Standards Mark and the GYS 901 Quality Management System programmes.

Inspired by a desire to elevate local snacks, the couple began producing mithai, milk-powder fudge, and sal sev for supermarket shelves. Despite challenges with funding, market access, and food safety requirements, their focus on quality never wavered. That commitment paid off on April 22, 2024, when Maliyah’s Kitchen earned GNBS certification, strengthening consumer confidence and opening new doors. “When people, both locally and regionally, hear that you are vetted by the GNBS, they know you have gone through a rigorous process. We always wanted to stand out from everyone else,” the businessman said.

Not stopping there, Alyssa pursued the GYS 901 certification, viewing it as an investment in strengthening the business from within. The business received its certification on November 26 at the GNBS’ National Quality Awards (NQA) ceremony. The certificate was handed over by Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips to Alyssa and Mark Singh. She called it a proud milestone for them. “It gives you more visibility. It gives more assurance to the consumers and retailers that this is a good product…We feel privileged to know that we have been recognised at that level. We are very proud,” Singh explained.

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MALIYAH’S KITCHEN: A TASTE OF TRADITION MEETING EXCELLENT STANDARD REQUIREMENTS

The couple praised the GNBS team for their constant support and encouraged other MSMEs to embrace certification: “start early, stay committed, and don’t shy away from the process.”

With plans to expand their product line, increase production, build their online presence, and enter regional markets, Maliyah’s Kitchen GY is just getting started, carrying Guyanese tradition forward with pride and quality.

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GNBS CONDUCTS SCHOOL LECTURES FOR STUDENTS OF GITC & NEW GUYANA SCHOOL The GNBS energised the classrooms of the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC) and the New Guyana School with an engaging lecture.

Students delved into the core functions and services of the GNBS, explored exciting career paths in the field of standards, and gained a clearer understanding that standards, quality and the metric system are essential in today’s world.

These dynamic sessions are not only about sharing information; they spark curiosity, encourage innovation, and build a stronger appreciation for the role of standards in shaping the future.

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GNBS HIGHLIGHTS SAFETY, STANDARDS AND QUALITY AT RUPUNUNI AND HUMAN RIGHTS & ANTICORRUPTION EXPOS The GNBS proudly participated in the Rupununi Expo held in Lethem, Region Nine, from November 28 - 29, as well as the fourth annual Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo 2025 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre from December 9 - 10.

During these events, patrons were sensitised on the critical role standards play in promoting fairness, safety, and good governance across Guyana, while also educating attendees on the Bureau’s work in upholding quality and protecting consumers.

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GNBS DISTRIBUTES PRIZES TO WINNERS OF LIKE, SHARE & WIN PROMOTION The GNBS presented the rewards to the outstanding winners of the GNBS ‘Like, Share, and WIN’ Promotion.

Devika Reuben captured the first-place prize of $100,000 in cash, along with a package of additional rewards. The second-place prize of $75,000 and accompanying prizes were awarded to Aneesa Beepat, while Lisa Howard secured the third-place prize of $50,000 in cash and additional prizes.

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GNBS SPREADS HOLIDAY CHEER AT ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-UP The GNBS family celebrated with the children of the Joshua House Children’s Centre at its annual Christmas Tree Light-Up to usher in the festive season.

The evening sparkled with joyful carols, warm company, delicious treats, lively music, thoughtful gifts, and plenty of fun and laughter. Together, attendees lit the GNBS Christmas Tree and embraced the true spirit of the season.

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GNBS DISTRIBUTES TOYS TO GPHC The GNBS was delighted to spread joy and festive cheer to the children of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC) Pediatric Ward. The toy distribution brought smiles, laughter, and moments of happiness to the young patients, reflecting the GNBS’s continued commitment to community engagement and compassion during the holiday season.

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Our Office: Track MB, Block B, National Exhibition Centre Sophia, Georgetown Guyana Contact Us: Call: +592-219-0062/66 WhatsApp: +592-692-GNBS(4627)

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