GCCI Mission, Vision, Values
President’s Message
List of Past Presidents
New Members from April 2025 to February 2025
Notice of 135th AGM of the GCCI
Proceedings of the 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Proceedings of the First Statutory Council Meeting 2024
Meetings & Events
Chamber’s Report
The GCCI is the oldest private sector representative organization in Guyana (established in 1890) and is a member-driven and professionally staffed non-profit association of business people committed to improving the economic climate and quality of life in Guyana. We are legislatively mandated under the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Act Chapter 89:03 of the laws of Guyana.
The Chamber’s strength lies in the size and diversity of its membership—both large and small businesses from virtually every sector are represented.
The GCCI represents the voice of the business community in Guyana and strives to advocate policies, stimulate trade and investment, connect businesses, sustain economic growth and expand member opportunities with the aim of contributing to a stable and sustainable economic and social environment in Guyana where businesses can prosper.
• Commitment-The Chamber is in business for business and is committed to preserving a stable economic environment, responding to members’ needs, connecting businesses together, improving prosperity and business opportunities within Guyana.
• Integrity-The Chamber is a non-partisan, open, honest and accountable organisation, which bases its decisions on driving and supporting business development in Guyana. Our members also subscribe to a Code of Conduct in the execution of their operations.
• Courtesy-It remains a core value of the Chamber that the contribution of its Council, its staff and members is valued and appreciated.
• Collaboration-The Chamber values strong working relationships with other agencies and stakeholders.
Dear Members,
It is with distinct honour that I address you on the invaluable work that the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has embarked upon over the last year. It has been my privilege to serve my first term as President of this Chamber for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, continuing the advocacy and advancement efforts of those who preceded me.
Amidst a transforming economy and rapidly developing business landscape, the role of the Chamber remained relevant. In fact, the GCCI’s role is pertinent now more than ever as Guyana is embarking on a journey of modernisation in all facets of its economy. Over the last fiscal year, we had 79 new members join the Chamber, reflecting a growth in the local business landscape. After examining the developments and opportunities that have arisen and paying attention to the cultural shift that is occurring, it is pellucid that Guyanese are up to the task of providing the goods and services that are being demanded and embracing entrepreneurship. The GCCI prides itself in providing a platform of nurture and support for all businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium sized Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) recorded a surplus of $5.5 million for the year 2025, representing a significant improvement of $6.9 million compared to the $1.4 million deficit recorded in 2024.
This turnaround reflects the Chamber’s continued focus on strengthening its financial management and operational efficiency.
The deficit recorded in 2024 was largely driven by a bad debt write-off of $7.3 million. During 2025, the Chamber implemented stronger accounts receivable management practices, which resulted in a substantial reduction in debt write-offs by approximately 102%, or $3.7 million.
This improvement highlights the Secretariat’s efforts to strengthen financial controls while maintaining the Chamber’s commitment to supporting its membership and expanding its activities. Overall, gross revenue increased from $105.86 million in 2024 to $123.71 million in 2025, representing an increase of $17.85 million or 16.84%. This growth was driven by strong performance across several of the Chamber’s key initiatives and events, which continue to serve as important platforms for engagement with the private sector.
The GCCI Business Awards Gala once again proved to be one of the Chamber’s flagship events. The event generated gross revenue of $17 million with expenses of $11.8 million, resulting in a surplus of $5.2 million. Sponsorship revenue grew by $550,000 (8%), while ticket sales increased by $566,000 (6%) compared to 2024. The continued support from sponsors and members reflects the prestige and value of this event within the business community.
Another important milestone for the Chamber in 2025 was the successful reintroduction of National Small Business Week. While this event was not executed in 2024, renewed commitment from the Secretariat and Executive Management Committee allowed it to return in 2025. The initiative proved to be both impactful and financially successful, generating a surplus of $5.8 million, while also reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to supporting and promoting small and medium-sized enterprises across Guyana.
The Chamber also continued its engagement with the global energy sector through participation in the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC). While this event recorded a deficit of $442,000, significant improvements were achieved in its financial performance. Revenue increased by $333,000 (1.7%), while expenses were reduced by $698,000 (3.4%), resulting in a reduction of the overall deficit by approximately $1 million compared to 2024.
Encouragingly, the Chamber expects this initiative to move into a surplus position in 2026, particularly with strengthened collaboration with partners such as the Guyana Office for Investment and the growing participation of Guyanese companies joining the Chamber’s delegation and exhibiting within the Guyana Booth.
Total expenses increased by $10.8 million (10%) compared to 2024, reflecting the expansion of the Chamber’s programmes and activities.
Event-related expenses increased by $3.4 million (7%), consistent with the growth and success of the Chamber’s major engagements. Administrative expenses increased by $9.7 million (18%), primarily due to strategic investments in strengthening the Chamber’s Secretariat. In order to better serve the Chamber’s expanding membership and the wider business community, the Secretariat team was expanded during the year. As a result, the net increase between employment costs and professional fees amounted to $5.2 million (15.2%) compared to 2024. This investment reflects the Chamber’s commitment to building the institutional capacity necessary to support its advocacy, policy engagement, and growing programme portfolio.
During the year 2025, the Chamber and IDB signed an agreement that will support the implementation of the Chamber’s Agriculture Accelerator Programme. Funding of $10.425 million was received in 2025 and it will be utilised to facilitate training workshops, capacity-building sessions, mentorship activities, and market linkage initiatives aimed at strengthening small and medium-sized agroenterprises. The programme is designed to enhance business management skills, improve productivity, support value-added production, and expand market access for participating enterprises.
As the oldest and largest Business Support Organisation (BSO) in Guyana, the Chamber serves as a voice of representation for the business community. Our advocacy work continued in 2025-2026, with engagements being held with a wide range of stakeholders including government, private sector companies and regulatory agencies.
2025 was a crucial year for Guyana, with the holding of the General and Regional Elections. The GCCI played a leading role as an accredited local observer, fielding observers in almost every region. This was important for the country as we sought to safeguard democracy by ensuring transparency and integrity, and for the business community, it was essential that we provided support in maintaining stability. Through a coordinated effort, we were able to not only participate in the process but advocate the interest of our members with the government when they were shaping their development manifesto.
Areas of concern were gathered through membership engagements, including field visits where Councillors put their boots to the ground and did walkabouts to members locations. We dedicatedly pursued our members interests—taking our advocacy to regulatory agencies, ministers, and even the president. We continued our calls for incentives for entrepreneurs, access to financing—and I am happy to reference the Development Bank which will soon be established—and measures of support for the development of the business landscape in Guyana.
Beyond that, we worked vigorously in fostering increased trade and investment through collaborations for both inbound and outbound trade missions. We supported members in businessto-business matchmaking for partnerships with foreign businesses, and facilitated members travelling to countries including China, Panama, El Salvador, and the United States for training opportunities.
Ease of doing business remains among the priority areas for the GCCI. Throughout the year, the GCCI engaged ministries such as the Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, the Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, and the Ministry of Finance to advocate for measure to improve the ease of doing business in Guyana. The Chamber also collaborated with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to launch a Day and Night Care project at members’ offices which saw GCCI members such as Professional Guard Services (PGS) provided in-office childcare facilities for working parents.
Even as we lobbied for more opportunities for our members, it was important that our businesses were prepared for these opportunities. As is customary over the last several years, capacity building remained on the forefront of our workplan. Through the various committees, we were able to execute several webinars and in-person training sessions on a monthly basis. On the front burner of these initiatives was the need to ensure that our members achieved compliance with several engagements being held with the National Insurance Scheme, the Guyana Revenue Authority, and the Ministry of Labour.
The Agriculture Committee also continued its impactful capacity building outreaches and symposiums. Building on the efforts of these initiatives, the Chamber established and commissioned Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre which is a resource centre that caters to the development of MSMEs. The facility features a training room, boardroom, and three offices that house technical officers who will support the beneficiaries through a wide range of services including capacity building in areas including but not limited to business development, marketing,
preparation of proposals, financial education, and compliance. The Centre was developed through a partnership with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada.
Every attempt at building capacity was geared towards increasing the opportunities made available to out members. The GCCI as a main proponent of the local content legislation in Guyana remains focused on ensuring the local content utilisation maintains its place as a priority among both the government and industry players. Aligned with these objectives, the Chamber engaged the Local Content Secretariat on several occasions—including in-person meetings as well as correspondence requesting the expansion of the Local Content Schedule.
Simultaneously, the GCCI also hosted engagements with companies in the oil and gas sector including ExxonMobil Guyana, MODEC, Saipem, and SBM Offshore Guyana. These engagements were geared towards providing clear guidance on upcoming contract opportunities and their requirements.
The GCCI’s workplan is wide-ranging and extensive, requiring keen focus and commitment to the Chamber’s mission. The responsibility for the execution of this workplan is divided among the Committees and Subcommittees, which are manned by Councillors and members. Over the last year, I am pleased to report that I witnessed a consistent effort by these committees to execute their mandates while providing platforms for members to ventilate their issues and concerns.
Chaired by the President of the GCCI, the Advocacy, Business and Economic Affairs Committee plays a central role in the advocacy function of the GCCI. Over the last year, the committee received feedback and complaints from members regarding challenges and obstacles they faced and channelled these complaints to the Council for action.
The Committee embarked on an information-gathering initiative by engaging members through the Council Walkabout and seeking input during committee meetings. The issues raised were addressed through interventions such as ministerial meetings and agency engagements. Among the main issues ventilated and addressed through this committee were challenges with the shipping industry, access to finance, access to foreign exchange, and bureaucracy in conducting business with regulator and business support agencies.
The Committee also established an Insurance Sub-committee to address matters related to the insurance sector and risk management and protection, given Guyana’s evolving business landscape. This committee was chaired by Councillor Mary Nagasar.
Additionally, in support of efforts to foster inclusivity, the Advocacy, Business and Economic Affairs Committee advocated for support towards the development of MSMEs and women entrepreneurs, as well as the creation of work environments that foster equal opportunities. Through these efforts, the Chamber received GY$10 million towards the commissioning of the Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The Committee also collaborated with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security for the launch of the Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal, an initiative promotes safe, inclusive, and discriminationfree workplaces across the country, targeting issues such as sexual harassment, workplace safety,
empowerment, and conduct.
Aligned with the capacity-building and information-sharing objectives of the Chamber, the Committee, with support from the Petroleum and Local Content Committee, led in the hosting of the Energy Insights Breakfast Bried which served as a platform for local businesses to receive updates on emerging opportunities, contracts, and capacity-building initiatives within the oil and gas sector, while also providing an overview of the government’s economic development plans and the evolving business landscape.
As we sought to increase membership visibility, the Committee facilitated members’ participation in the International Building Expo 2025, GuyExpo 2025, and the Guyana Energy Conference 2026 through a GCCI pavilion at each event. Through this initiative, members were able to benefit from invaluable networking and marketing opportunities at a subsidised cost.
The Membership and Diversity Committee, chaired by Mr. Keon Howard and vice-chaired by Kristia Ramlagan, continued to strengthen member engagement, resolving key issues, and fostering collaboration amongst members throughout the year. The Committee welcomed new members at the GCCI President’s Receptions, and hosted the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran Cancer Awareness Fundraising Mixer, with proceeds supporting the Guyana Cancer Institute through patient support and refurbishment.
Additionally, the committee supported member participation in the Guyana Energy Conference by providing exhibition opportunities within the GCCI booth, which provided a platform for business visibility and networking. The committee also actively collaborated on important initiatives such as National Small Business Week (NSBW), the ECONOME Business Conference & Mixer, and activities with the GCCI Agriculture Committee.
This year, Mr. Orson Ferguson, elected Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, led with the aim of developing the Chamber’s members while advancing entrepreneurship. The Committee collaborated in planning the GCCI President’s Receptions, launched the 2025 Teenternship Programme; allowing 15 students to gain practical work experience with 14 member companies, and organized the National Small Business Week (NSBW) event, which included workshops on label design, business management, financial awareness, and recordkeeping in partnership with the Small Business Bureau.
The Construction and Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Committee led by Chairperson Ray McLean and Vice Chairperson Eshwar Shiwdin, continued to promote strong safety culture through discussions and safety awareness initiatives during its engagements. The Committee facilitated several Safety Moments focused on critical workplace safety issues and delivered a safety moment on confined space safety, highlighting five key rules: hazard identification, atmospheric testing, ventilation, continuous monitoring, and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
The Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee led by Chairperson, Melisa McRae-George and Vice Chairperson Holly Persaud, facilitated several initiatives aimed at strengthening workforce development and improving human resource practices among its membership. On May 28, 2025, the Committee coordinated an engagement between the Ministry of Labour and GCCI members at the Chamber’s boardroom, where discussions focused on labour law compliance, workforce development, and enhancing collaboration between the public and private sectors. On October 9, 2025, the Committee hosted a networking and knowledge-sharing session that featured presentations on “The Future of Hybrid and Remote Work” and “Succession Planning and Employment Contracts for Hybrid & Remote Work,” providing members with insights into evolving workplace trends and management practices. More recently, on February 3, 2026, the Committee partnered with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to host an information session that educated businesses on NIS compliance requirements, employer responsibilities, and available benefits. Additionally, the Committee conducted several mini-series sessions addressing pertinent human resource management topics, providing members with practical guidance on emerging HR trends and best practices. These activities reflect the Committee’s continued commitment to supporting capacity building, regulatory awareness, and modern workforce management within the business community.
The Health and Wellness Sub-Committee, chaired by Dr. Dason McKenzie and vice-chaired by Kacey Bayley, facilitated webinars on career burnout, stress management, and healthy lifestyle choices. Sessions addressed topics such as hidden sugars and additives in common breakfast foods, coffee, energy drinks, chocolate, and exercise habits, providing practical guidance for members’ personal and professional wellness. The Committee also shared weekly health tips for both the Committee and the wider Chamber, reinforcing ongoing engagement and awareness of healthy practices.
The Security and Governance Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continued to advance dialogue on governance, public safety, and regulatory awareness within the business community. On November 26, 2025, the Committee facilitated a presentation for GCCI members by Traffic Chief and Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh of the Guyana Police Force. The session focused on enhancing awareness of road safety regulations, responsibilities of road users, and recent developments in traffic enforcement and management across Guyana. The engagement provided members with valuable insights into the role businesses and employees play in promoting safer road practices, while also strengthening collaboration between the private sector and national law enforcement agencies on issues related to public safety and governance.
Throughout the 2025–2026 GCCI year, the Green Economy Committee expanded its scope to incorporate tourism development, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship in Guyana’s development trajectory. The Chamber commenced its environmental engagements with participation in the Environmental Protection Agency’s World Environment Day Green Walk on June 1, 2025, reaffirming its commitment to environmental awareness and sustainability. A significant milestone occurred on August 28, 2025, when the Chamber signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), establishing a framework for collaboration and formally expanding the Committee’s mandate to include tourism, thereby creating the Green Economy and Tourism Committee.
The Committee continued its focus on sustainable practices through knowledge-sharing initiatives such as the October 7, 2025, webinar titled “Urban Farming for SMEs and Homes in Guyana,” delivered in collaboration with COLEAD and NAREI, which highlighted innovative approaches to sustainable food production. On January 19, 2026, the Committee hosted the webinar “How to Fund Your Environmental Project,” which provided participants with practical insights into green and climate-finance instruments available through the domestic banking sector and guidance on structuring environmentally aligned projects to attract financing from lenders.
During the 2025-2026 GCCI year, the Trade and Investment Committee, chaired by Councillor Eusi Evelyn, and Vice Chairman Theon Alleyne, remained actively engaged in facilitating international trade promotion, investment dialogue, and policy engagement to strengthen Guyana’s business environment and global commercial linkages.
On May 12, 2025, the Chamber participated in the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN) meeting, where stakeholders discussed opportunities to improve trade relations with Brazil and address existing challenges affecting trade flows between the two countries. In early June 2025, the Chamber engaged with the European Union Investment Mission focused on the health and pharmaceutical sector, participating in a business overview session and facilitating business-to-business meetings between local companies and EU delegates. The Chamber further supported investment promotion efforts on June 11, 2025, by delivering a virtual presentation on Guyana’s investment climate to participants from Holland House Colombia. On June 12, 2025, the Chamber facilitated a “Doing Business in Guyana” presentation for a visiting Jamaican business delegation organised by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), followed by targeted B2B engagements designed to strengthen trade relations between the two countries. Members also participated in a networking engagement with Brazil’s Sebrae on June 16, 2025, aimed at fostering collaboration between Brazilian and Guyanese businesses. On June 24, 2025, the Chamber again facilitated a “Doing Business in Guyana” presentation for the AIA-EIC delegation, accompanied by B2B meetings with GCCI members. The Chamber continued its engagement with regional partners by hosting a delegation from the Barranquilla Chamber of Commerce on October 13, 2025, providing an overview of the Guyanese business environment and facilitating discussions between the delegation and GCCI members. In January 2026, the Committee hosted a presentation on Electronic Single Windows, featuring representatives from the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Central Housing & Planning Authority, who provided members with updates on the Single Window Clearance System. The Committee continued its efforts to enhance member awareness of international trade opportunities by hosting a presentation on February 24, 2026, on the CARIFORUM–EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which provided insights into marketaccess provisions and opportunities for Guyanese firms to access the European market.
Throughout the 2025-2026 GCCI year, the Agriculture Committee continued to support the development of Guyana’s agricultural sector through market linkage initiatives, capacity-building programmes, and collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders. On April 2, 2025, the Chamber hosted a Farmer-to-Business Symposium, bringing together over 90 participants, including farmers, restaurants, supermarkets, and agribusiness operators, to facilitate direct engagement between producers and buyers across the agricultural supply chain. The Chamber continued its commitment to supporting agricultural development through capacity-building initiatives and partnerships with sector agencies. On April 16, 2025, Executive Members of the Chamber paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Nicole Theriot, Ambassador of the United States of America to
Guyana, during which discussions explored opportunities for collaboration in agricultural enterprise development, technical training, trade facilitation, and the development of crop insurance mechanisms. On July 9, 2025, the Agriculture Committee, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, NAREI, GLDA, GMC, WUSC, THAG, SBB, GFSA and PTCCB, hosted a Farmer-to-Business Symposium in West Coast Berbice aimed at connecting farmers with hotels, supermarkets, and other commercial buyers to strengthen value-chain linkages. A major milestone occurred on October 28, 2025, when the Chamber commissioned its Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, developed in partnership with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) and funded by Global Affairs Canada. The facility was established to provide training and technical support for entrepreneurs, with a particular focus on women-led enterprises and farmers. On November 19, 2025, President Kathy Smith attended the launch of the Guyana Wood-Based SME Accelerator Programme implemented by the Centre for Local Business Development and the Food and Agriculture Organisation with support from the European Union. In February 2026, Agriculture Committee Chair Mr. Brian Edwards delivered a presentation at the FAO FISH4ACP Workshop titled, “Strengthening Guyana’s Agribusiness: From Fisheries Cooperatives to Seafood.” The Committee also continued its outreach activities through the Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop held in Region 6 on March 4, 2026, in collaboration with multiple sector agencies, followed by the annual Farmer-to-Business Symposium hosted in Region 3 on March 11, 2026, which further strengthened partnerships between farmers, commercial buyers, and key stakeholders within the agriculture sector.
During the 2025–2026 GCCI year, the Petroleum and Local Content Committee continued to play an important role in strengthening dialogue between the private sector, government, and international stakeholders in Guyana’s rapidly expanding oil and gas industry. On April 11, 2025, the Committee facilitated an engagement with Mr. Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, who shared key insights into the company’s operations, upcoming gas development projects, and the many opportunities available for local businesses to participate in the sector. The discussion also highlighted ExxonMobil’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and increasing local workforce participation. On June 24, 2025, the Committee engaged with the Aberdeen International Associates-Energies Industries Council (AIA-EIC) delegation, during which Committee Chair Mr. Richard Rambarran delivered a presentation on “Doing Business in Guyana,” providing an overview of the country’s operating environment and opportunities for international collaboration. This engagement was followed on June 26, 2025, by a presentation from Dr. Martin Pertab of the Local Content Secretariat, who provided updates on the implementation and utilisation of the Local Content Act, offering members greater clarity on regulatory developments and opportunities for participation.
The Committee also supported the hosting of the Energy Insights Breakfast Brief on October 2, 2025. On November 19, 2025, the Chamber convened a consultation with the Local Content Secretariat, led by its newly appointed Director, Mr. Michael Munroe. The engagement provided an opportunity for members to exchange perspectives on the implementation of the Local Content framework, including discussions on potential updates and considerations related to the Local Content Register and other evolving aspects of the policy environment affecting Guyanese businesses. The Committee continued its engagement into the new year with the Petroleum Sector Update held on January 30, 2026, featuring the Honourable Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Vickram Bharrat, and Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Mr. Michael Munroe. The session provided updates on the Gas-to-Energy Project and the implementation of the Local Content framework, offering valuable insights into the sector’s future direction and the role of Guyanese businesses.
Under the leadership of Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the Finance Committee remained committed to strengthening capacity-building initiatives and enhancing members’ knowledge in key financial and business management areas.
During the reporting period, the Committee continued to support and strengthen the collaboration between the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). This partnership aims to promote the development of the accounting profession in Guyana, support educational and professional initiatives, and contribute to expanding the national pool of qualified accountants, among other strategic objectives.
In the first quarter, a joint webinar between GCCI and ACCA was facilitated, titled “Finance for NonFinance Managers.” The session provided valuable insights into budgeting, maintaining accurate financial records, and strengthening both financial and non-financial decision-making skills. The webinar was well received and contributed to improving financial literacy among members and the wider business community.
In the last quarter, another collaborative session, “Enhancing Employability and Building Finance Teams,” was held to support members in strengthening their finance departments. The session focused on improving workforce skills, enhancing employability of finance professionals, and identifying strategies to build effective finance teams. It provided participants with practical guidance and shared insights to align their finance functions with global best practices.
The Finance Committee continues to support the implementation of sound financial practices within the Chamber, ensuring that appropriate financial systems, controls, and reporting mechanisms are maintained in alignment with good governance standards. Through these ongoing efforts, the Committee remains focused on strengthening the Chamber’s financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and the professional capacity of its members.
The Fundraising Committee, chaired by Councillor Komal Ramnauth, started its year of activities by spearheading Guyana’s participation at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas. Members and non-members alike, who formed part of the Guyana delegation, were able to network with the international business community to discuss mutually beneficial opportunities, all the while immersing themselves in the conference’s display of technical knowledge, cutting-edge equipment, and in-depth conversations on innovations in oil, gas, and renewable energy.
In June, the GCCI hosted its first Business Breakfast Seminar under the theme “Finance and Banking”, which saw the participation of some 120 businesses persons who gathered to hear from a strong lineup of public and private sector representatives in the field of finance.
In July, the committee executed its CARICOM Day Barbecue which provided members the opportunity to network in an informal setting, engaging over light conversation and a delicious meal. At the end of July and beginning of August, the GCCI hosted its National Small Business Week, which culminated into the Conference and Exhibition where 30 small businesses were able to display their products and speak about their services at the Arthur Chung Conerence Center. These small businesses were also able to benefit from fruitful discussions on scaling their businesses. A vital part of this event was also the Teenternship programme, where high school students gained real world working experience after being placed at various businesses as “Teenterns”, gaining valuable skills to prepare them for the workforce.
In October, the Fundraising Committee, in collaboration with the Membership and Diversity Committee hosted the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran Cancer Awareness Mixer, where we raised funds to donate to numerous institutions supporting the care of individuals affected by cancer.
In November, the Committee hosted its flagship Business Development Forum, which saw the participation of some 150 individuals representing tertiary educational institutions, MSMEs, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Here, the audience was met with riveting dialogue on opportunities for MSMEs, managing businesses, and knowledge and skills needed for growth.
The Committee closed off the year with the 136th Annual Awards presentation & Gala Dinner at the Marriott Hotel, where some 400 persons attended. At this event, the Chamber presented a total of 18 awards to public and private sector entities in recognition of their achievements over the past year.
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In conclusion, I can proudly declare that the Chamber has worked in alignment with its mandate, with 21 Councillors who were committed to their responsibilities. I look forward to continued dedication by this organisation which is one that is led by passion and love for private sector development and national growth. I thank you all for your continued support—whether by way of sponsorship, participation, or the sharing of ideas and solutions, and I look forward to continuing the efforts of the GCCI as we move forward.
List of Past Presidents from 1889-2025
124 Total Members
April 2025 - February 2026
Notice is hereby given that the 136th Annual General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) will be held on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Salon C, at 14:00 hours for the following purposes:
1. Reading of the Notice convening the Meeting
2 Presentati on of the President ’s 2025 Report
3. Auditor ’s Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December, 2025.
4. Resolutions
5 Appointment of an Auditor
6. Consideration of any business or motion as may properly come before the Meeting.
7 Election of the 2026/2027 Council
All members are reminded to be in good financial standing with the Chamber.
BY ORDER OF THE COUNCIL
Ahr eefa Bacchus Proper Officer
ALL MAIL: 156 Waterloo Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, Guyana, South America
Telephone: (592)226-3519/227-6441
Email: gccicommerce2009@gmail.com Serving Guyana through Commerce and Industry
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was held on Wednesday, March 29, 2024, in Salon C of the Guyana Marriott Hotel. The Opening Session was moderated by Corporate Communications Officer of the GCCI, Ms. Ahreefa Bacchus, who served as Proper Officer. The President’s Report was delivered by President, Mr. Kester Hutson during this session. Remarks were delivered by Guest Speaker, the U.S Ambassador to Guyana, H.E. Nicole Theriot, while the Opening Session was closed with remarks from Senior Minister in the Office of the President, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh.
The Business session was conducted by the Proper Officer, Ms. Ahreefa Bacchus who called the session to order.
1. Reading of the Notice Convening the Meeting
Reading of the Notice to convene the meeting was done by Secretary of the GCCI, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George.
The President’s 2024 Report was read by the outgoing President, Mr. Kester Hutson during the Opening Session, and Proper Officer, Ms. Ahreefa Bacchus asked for a motion to be moved accepting the report as read. The motion was moved by Mr. Timothy Tucker of Rid-O-Pes and seconded by Ms. Mary Nagasar of Hand-in-Hand Group of Companies.
3. Accounts of the Council and Auditors’ Report for 2024
Accountant for the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Leon Prescott provided a brief summary of the Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2024.
The Auditors report and Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2024 was taken as read by a motion moved by Mr. Richard Rambarran of NCB Capital Markets Guyana Inc. which was seconded by Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar of Zarc Properties Inc. . There being no objections, the motion was unanimously carried.
The Proper Officer then moved to the fourth item on the agenda, that is, Resolutions.
There were no resolutions submitted to the Proper Officer or Secretary of the Chamber on or before the 28th day before the date of the Annual General Meeting.
The Proper Officer then moved to the fifth item on the agenda, that is, Appointment of an Auditor.
5. Appointment of an Auditor
The Proper Officer opened the floor for the appointment of an auditor for the GCCI for the 20252026 fiscal year.
A motion was made by Mr. Richard Rambarran of NCB Capital Markets Guyana Inc. to retain the services of TSD Lal and Company and seconded by Mrs. Kathy Smith of Dynotech Construction Chemicals Inc.
The Proper Officer then moved to the sixth item on the agenda, that is, any other business.
The Proper Officer opened the floor for discussion regarding any other business consistent with the Act and Rules of the Chamber.
There being no other business, the Proper Officer dissolved the 2024/2025 Council.
The Proper Officer then moved to the seventh and final item on the agenda, that is, Election of the Council for the year 2025/2026.
Nominations for members of the Council for the year 2022/2023 were conducted from March 14, 2025 to March 18, 2025, via email.
On the day of the AGM, the Proper Officer announced all nominations that were received. The nomination list was also displayed during the meeting via screen sharing. The following nominations were received and seconded:
The Proper Officer also announced the list of nominees who were nominated but not seconded. This nomination list was also displayed during the meeting via screen sharing. The following nominations were received but not seconded:
The Proper Officer then announced that nominations would be taken from the floor. There were no nominations from the floor.
Mr. Komal Ramnauth of Kojac moved a motion to close nominations and the motion was seconded by Mr. Nick Deygoo of Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services. There being no objections, the motion was unanimously carried.
The Proper Officer then provided an overview of the voting process to members.
A motion was moved by Mr. Komal Ramnauth of Kojac for the voting period to be extended from two hours to three hours. This motion was seconded by Mr. Richard Rambarran of NCB Capital Markets Guyana Inc. There being no objections, the motion was carried unanimously.
Voting commenced at 18:00 hrs. Votes were cast via Election Runner, a secure, digital elections platform. Voters received an email containing voter credentials and a link that, once clicked, took the voter to the GCCI’s election page and automatically logged them in using a unique Voter ID and Voter Key. After casting their ballots, voters received a ballot receipt which served as evidence of their vote being cast.
Voting concluded at 21:00 hrs. The votes were tallied and presented by the Proper Officer at 21:44 hrs. as follows:
Proceedings of the First Statutory Council Meeting
2024-2025
The meeting was called to order at 14:14 hours by Kathy Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).
B. Apologies/Announcements
Devon Seeram and indicated their apologies. Dee George, Rayad Boyce, Paul Archer indicated that they would be late.
C. Approval of Agenda
A motion to adopt the agenda was moved by Paul Archer and seconded by Gavin Ramsoondar.
A motion to adopt the minutes of the previous meeting was moved by Mary Nagasar and seconded by Brian Edwards.
Matters arising from the previous minutes were discussed during committee reports. Such as, National Small Business Week, plumbing standards, creating an Insurance Sub-Committee, introduction of the new Finance Clerk, updates on IDEA, Ministry of Public Works and ExxonMobil Operations Presentation.
Rene Daniels presented the Chamber’s report for April 2025.
1. Advocacy, Business and Economic Affairs Committee – Kathy Smith, Chairperson
Kathy Smith reported on the following:
• Mrs. Smith stated that the committee meeting was pretty short and mainly called for the election of the Vice Chairperson, Mary Nagasar. The committee will also create an Insurance SubCommittee in which Councillor Mary Nagasar and Paul Archer were selected to be Chairperson and Vice Chairperson respectively.
• She also stated that going forward there will be more discussions on recurring issues and underlying problems that directly affect business.
Agriculture Committee – Brian Edwards, Chairperson
Mr. Edwards reported on the following:
• Mr. Edwards provided a comprehensive update on the outcomes of the Farmer–Buyer Engagement Symposium. He noted that the event, which brought together over 90 participants, including farmers from Regions 3, 4, 5, and 6, agro-processors, and commercial buyers from hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, was among the first of its kind in Guyana. The primary objective was to directly connect producers with buyers through a structured format that included a “speed-dating” session. This interactive engagement allowed for brief but meaningful exchanges between parties, which extended beyond the allotted time due to the high level of interest. He also mentioned the support they received for THAG, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Tourism.
• He mentioned that the committee has also had engagements with University of Guyana’s Agriculture Faculty, works being done with COLEAD and the Micro and Women’s Entrepreneurship and Learning Centre. He also stated that more work will be done when the committee work plan is submitted.
• He then reported that the committee elected its Vice Chairperson, Lockharte Alleyne and Assistant Vice Chairperson Krysten Sewett.
• Mrs. Smith suggested that Martina McDonald would be interested in joining the committee and offering her advice from her experience connecting 2000 farmers with hotels and supermarkets in Antigua.
• Mrs. Smith also offered the committee encouragement for their continuous plans for development of the agriculture sector and Mr. Edwards thanked the councillors and secretariat for the support and success of the activities.
Mr. Ferguson reported on the following:
• Mr. Ferguson mentioned that the committee would have elected their Vice Chairperson, Dr. Rosh Khan.
• Mr Ferguson briefly highlighted the plans for the National Small Business week and Teentership. He mentioned that he would have met with Shazim Abrahim from the Small Business Bureau to explore areas in which they can collaborate and support the event. He stated with no surprise that the GCCI and SBB share similarities in which he will send a proposal for review and approval.
• Mr. Ferguson briefly touched on other events that the committee spareheads such as Virtual Networking Session and the President’s Reception. He mentioned that we will continue with these events throughout the year.
• He would have identified the major issue in pulling off NSBW would be funding. Stating that funding is an essential part of pulling off the event.
• Ambika Ramraj stated that they would have tweaked the sponsorship package and plans for BRAVA to fund 8 million dollars.
• Mrs Smith suggested that the GCCI should extend their reach for sponsors rather than reaching out to the usual businesses.
Mr. Ramsoondar reported on the following:
• The committee would have reelected Mahindra Sammy as the Vice Chairperson of the committee.
• He would have stated that the committee continues to monitor the incoming unallocated funds with Republic Bank.
• He mentioned that they were only able to prepare financial statements for the month of February and will present them for March and April in the next meeting.
The Statement of Profit or Loss for February 2025 showed a total income of $4.3M, with total expenses amounting to $5.3M, resulting in a deficit of $1M. In comparison, the total income for February 2024 was $8.2M, with total expenses of $2.5M, resulting in a surplus of $5.7M. Cumulatively from January to February 2025 there was a surplus of $2.6M compared to the previous period surplus of $4.4M It was observed that administrative costs were significantly higher in 2025 compared to 2024, which contributed to a larger surplus in the year 2024. Additionally, it was noted that there was no event income recorded for the period under review; all income for 2025 was derived exclusively from membership fees.
Mr. Ramsoondar presented the Balance Sheet as of 28th February 2025:
• Receivables: Outstanding receivables at the end of February 2025 stood at $25.5M, with $0.477M collected during the month. No new receivables were added in February.
• Accounts Payable: The balance of accounts payable as of 28th February 2025 was $5.2M, a reduction from $8.9M in January 2025.
• Cash & Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents amounted to $16.5M as of 28th February 2025.
• Inventory: The inventory balance, consisting of polo jerseys and lapel pins, stood at $1.0M.
• Fixed Assets: During February 2025, the purchase of a coffee maker and water dispenser, contributing to an increase in fixed assets.
• CTCS Projects & Relief Fund: Deferred income includes $2.7M for the four (4) Caribbean Technological Consultancy Service (CTCS) projects and $8.5M for the Relief Fund.
• Mr. Ramsoondar reported that due to the termination of the previous finance clerk the work that was once for two persons is now for one. However, with the new addition to the team, they should be able to evenly distribute the workload.
• Komal Ramnauth then asked for reports on the following:
- Money spent on building construction
- The number of staff and monthly wages bill
- The Chamber’s highest expenditure and income
- What is the shortfall for the year and target for the Fundraising Committee
• Mr. Ramsoondar also mentioned that payroll is the highest expenditure and Timothy Tucker mentioned that the highest income earner is membership subscriptions.
• Mr. Rambarran requested that the ratio of membership subscription to administrative expenses should be presented in council. He also mentioned that the chamber is in need of better management in the cashflow which a dent was left in due to building renovations with Keon Luther.
• There were more discussions surrounding membership subscriptions, and having the chairpersons of both the Fundraising Committee and Finance Committee attend and be a part of both meetings.
Mr. Ramnauth reported on the following:
• Mr. Ramnauth advised that planning for numerous events has already begun, and provided details on the same. These details are as follows:
i. National Small Business Week - The Entrepreneurship and Small Business committee has sent out draft proposals for other companies to support also. He also stated that if the committee is in need of further assistance from the Fundraising committee to reach out.
ii. Offshore Technology Conference – Planning for this event is underway, with attendance and non-attendance packages being sent out to members. Payments for some attendees, and have received verbal commitments from some. The calendar of events for this event is also being worked on.
iii. Business Guyana Magazine – rates have been revised and the average cost for the BGM is 16 million dollars.
iv. Chamber Family Fun Day- Keon Howard would have suggested that a concept be created and presented to council.
v. Brian Edwards and Orson Ferguson also suggested the chamber host a golf tournament.
Mr. Walcott reported on the following:
• The committee would have elected their new Vice Chairperson Mrs. Dee George and revised their work program for 2025.
• The committee identified working along with the Agriculture Committee to facilitate collaborative events.
• He stated that the committee will have a few meetings in person and continued to express his interest in edifying the membership of the Green Economy.
• Kathy Smith suggested that the committee works on the beautification of Waterloo Street and have a major project coming out of the committee. Delmar Walcott affirmed that the committee is working with THAG on major projects. This was echoed by Timothy Tucker.
• Mr. Tucker also mentioned that the committee reached out to funding agencies to execute their projects such as Sophia Point and National Parks Commission.
• Dee George stated that they did have discussions at our committee meeting to try to work closely with the Protected Areas Commission, which encompasses the National Park. Well, the three urban spaces, National Park and the Botanical Gardens, and soon to come on board, Joveira Park, and the five protected spaces and Sophia Point are also part of the Protected Areas Commission’s mandate, which was recently signed through that organization.
Dr. McKenzie, Chairperson reported on the following:
• Dr. Mckenzie mentioned that the meeting opened with a presentation on Massages by Joy Hart of Nice Touch Spa.
• Dr. Mckenzie briefly outlined the committee’s plans for the Health Day which is to be held in the month of February or March.
• Dr. Mckenzie mentioned a webinar on the “Hidden Time Bomb in your Career” with Psychologist Latoya Tucker, and on burnout and young professionals is the next event that the committee will focus on. It is tentative to be held at the end of April.
• Kathy Smith suggested that the committee reach out to work with the Ministry of Human Service and Social Security since the Minister is interested in presenting to the Chamber’s Membership. These meetings will be guided by Gavin Ramsoondar.
8. Human Resource Management (HRM) and Capacity Building Committee – Melisa George, Chairperson
Mrs. George reported on the following:
• She stated that she took the opportunity to welcome the many new members to the committee, but also talk a little bit about some of the policies, regarding the attendance. The committee did talk about ensuring that persons should attend meetings.
• She stated that a draft work plan was sent out and that they elected the new Vice Chair of Holly Persaud who was the vice chair last year and has been reelected.
• She posited that Holly has been doing a really good job supporting the committee. In the work plan, there are quite a few items that they will definitely undertake, such as an HR Seminar.
• The Committee discussed the labor challenges within the country, and would have invited the Minister of Labor to do a presentation for the membership.
• She encouraged councillors to support the committee in the upcoming Occupational safety and health walk, which is to be done on Sunday in observance of Occupational Safety and Health Month.
Mr. Howard reported on the following:
• Mr. Howard gave a brief outline of the reception. He stated that the event gives the new members an opportunity to meet with the President and Council of the chamber while networking with other new members and introducing their services. He then posited that this will be an initiative the committee will continue to push.
• Mr. Howard mentioned that it was communicated by Councilor Brian Edwards to have a brochure created that targets members who are farmers and agro processors. Mr. Howard would have communicated that it would have been a great addition for the F2B Symposium held at Splashmins by the Agriculture Committee.
• Mr. Howard also stated that the committee will be accompanying the Agriculture Committee on their outbound trips in 2024 and will share the schedule for persons to indicate their interests in attending trips planned for 2025.
• He also stated his interests in reaching out to Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott just to have a brief outline on what the committee can do moving forward.
• Timothy Tucker then suggested the membership committee needs to work with the fundraising committee so that they can tie the events to membership. He mentioned that hitting on internal advocacy will really drive the numbers of people coming out to events.
Mr. Rambarran reported on the following:
• The Petroleum Committee meeting was held on 23rd April. He stated that the committee now has 49 members of the committee and approximately 27 were attending. The committee nominated Phil Saroo as the Vice chairperson of this committee.
• Chris Chakwanya provided the updates, some of which included the IMF’s growth outlook, experiencing double-digit growth, the arrival of the one Guyana FPSO, Mode being the person to take charge of the seventh FPSO. He mentioned that he also spoke about some developments in the ultra deep waters, mirroring a lot of what was happening in Guyana in 2015, 16, 17.
• He posited that the committee work plan will be presented at the next council meeting.
• Mr. Rambarran stated that the committee is to be renamed the Petroleum and Local Content Committee, of which local content will be a standing agenda item permanently on the agenda to which the council had no objections.
• Mr. Rambarran expressed his displeasure in Exxon not being able to offer sponsorship for the Offshore Technology Conference.
Mr. Archer reported on the following:
• Paul Archer initiated the meeting, acknowledging the presence of new members and requesting introductions. Sean Kirkpatrick was nominated as the new Vice Chairperson of the committee.
• Mr. Archer outlined the committee’s focus on traffic management, noting that they have been receiving reports from the traffic chief about current road conditions. He mentioned a recent meeting with the Minister of Home Affairs, where they expressed concerns about traffic issues and the need for a representative to facilitate communication. Archer also pointed out the delays in road signage installation due to the handover process between Central Housing and Public Works.
• They discussed the new e-ticketing system, emphasising that tickets are sent to vehicle owners, which may not penalise drivers effectively. Paul shared his experience that companies typically pay these tickets as a cost of doing business.
Mr. Evelyn reported on the following:
• Mr. Evelyn announced that the new elected Vice Chairperson is Theon Alleyne.
• There was a presentation by Mr. Kalekyezi who led the latest installment of the Chamber’s trade series, focusing on the CARICOM–Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Mr. Kalekyezi provided a comprehensive overview of the agreement and highlighted Guyana’s persistent and widening trade deficit with the Dominican Republic, driven primarily by substantial cement and fertilizer imports. In contrast, Guyana’s exports, largely coconuts and more recently, rice, have remained limited in value and consistency. Institutional challenges, language barriers, limited product knowledge, and stringent SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) and TBT (Technical Barriers to Trade) measures were cited as key impediments to export growth. Mr. Kalekyezi responded to several member queries, including questions on deliberate strategies to increase exports. He noted that the department’s sensitization efforts, such as this presentation, aim to inform stakeholders of available trade opportunities. He stated that questions were also raised regarding the accessibility of information and the role of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). Mr. Kalekyezi acknowledged these concerns and cited the need for stronger inter-agency coordination and better public dissemination of trade information, including plans to upload trade agreements to the Ministry’s website. He encouraged members to directly approach relevant ministries for guidance.
Mr. McLean reported on the following:
• Eshwar Shiwdin was nominated by Ray and seconded by Kester Hutson. After closing the nominations, Eshwar was elected as vice chair for the Construction and HSSE Committee for 2025-2026.
• Ray highlighted the significance of Health and Safety Awareness Month, which will focus on the role of AI and digitalization in enhancing workplace safety. The HSE walk is set for April 29th, and urged all participants to join in. He also mentioned the importance of fostering collaboration within the committee to ensure mutual benefits.
• He also stated that Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) held their first committee meeting April 15th, 2025 to which Ghanshyam Sukhoo and Savira Ramroop attended. However there were no updates at the time of the committee meeting.
• Mrs. Smith posited that the schedule for the Council WalkAbout will be shared.
• All Committee Work Plans are to be submitted.
• Each Committee should host a networking session for the members.
There was no other business to come before the meeting, the meeting was adjourned at 18:30 hrs.
GCCI President meets with H.E Dr.Mohamed Irfaan Ali - March 22, 2025
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran on March 22, 2025 met with His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali at State House. The meeting followed Mrs. Smith’s election to the helm of the GCCI, and featured discussions on topics pertinent to the development of the business sector.
Council Walkabout: GCCI meets with Water Street businesses - March 27, 2025
On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the Council engaged in a walkabout with businesses in Water Street, Georgetown. Led by President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, the Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, Councillor, and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Councillors Mr. Orson Ferguson, Mr. Keon Howard, Mr. Paul Archer, Mr. Navin Prashad, Mr. Delmar
Walcott, Mr. Eusi Evelyn, Mr. Devon Seeram, Mr. Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran, and Mr. Rayad Boyce visited several businesses and engaged them on issues that are affecting their operations and how the GCCI can support in resolving their challenges. Among the businesses visited were Palm Court, German’s Restaurant, Nation’s Incorporated, BK Group of Companies, Mattai’s Supermarket, and National Hardware Guyana Incorporated.
President of the GCCI receives award for Trailblazing Women in Project Management - March 29, 2025
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith received the award for Trailblazing Women in Project Management at the 2025 ProjectHer Conference on March 29, 2025. This event, which saw the attendance of over 260 women, was organised by Green State Oil and Gas Services Inc.
GCCI Executives meet with Minister Deodat Indar - March 31, 2025
With crucial discussions on matters such as ensuring that local companies fully tap into contract opportunities that accompany the burgeoning infrastructure development and issues related to local content utilisation, the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on March 31, 2025 met with Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Deodat Indar, who is also a Past President of the Chamber.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; and Councillors and Executive Members, Mr. Timothy Tucker and Mr. Richard Rambarran paid the minister a courtesy visit at his Wight’s Lane, Kingston office.
President Smith provided an overview of concerns of the Chamber’s membership to the Minister, particularly as it relates to local content utilisation within the infrastructure sector. Minister Indar, who provided insights into the more than 3000 contracts issued to local contractors last year, committed to addressing the issues raised. Matters such as labour needs and capacitybuilding within the workforce were also discussed.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on April 2, 2025 held a ‘Farmer-toBusiness Symposium’ at the Splashmin’s Conference Room that saw over 90 participants— including farmers, and representatives of restaurants, supermarkets, and other businesses within the agriculture supply chain— benefiting from direct engagement between producers and buyers.
The event was organised by the GCCI’s Agriculture Committee in collaboration with World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada, and hosted under the theme “Opportunities in Agriculture through Innovation and Collaboration.” The goal of the event is the development of a sustainable and robust agriculture market system that promotes food security, boosts productivity, and drives economic prosperity for farmers by enhancing competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusivity through commercialisation and modernisation.
The event also sought to provide a platform for farmers to share their challenges and issues related to access to agricultural innovations, inputs, finance, and government support, and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to a changing agricultural landscape and thrive in the market. Among the activities at the symposium was a ‘speed dating for stakeholders’ session, which saw farmer and businesses interacting in order to develop a supply chain connection.
This symposium also brought together stakeholders from key agencies such as the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Agriculture Research Extension Institute (NAREI), the New Guyana Marketing Corporation, the Guyana Food Safety Authority, the Small Business Bureau, the Food and Drug Administration, the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana, the Pesticide and Toxic Chemicals Control Board and Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry.
With focus on important issues and concerns surrounding the development of local companies— including Micro, Small and Medium Sized Enterprises—including the establishment of a financial institution catering to their needs, as well as increasing local content utilisation, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 2 met with Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat. President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia RamlaganPrescott; and Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George made a courtesy visit to the minister at his Duke Street, Georgetown office.
Mrs. Smith provided the minister with an overview of the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the Chamber, the newly elected Executive Management Committee and Council. In her discussions with Minister Bharrat, Mrs. Smith pointed out that the GCCI’s membership has significantly increased over the last several years with many members being able to tap into the oil and gas industry. On this note, she indicated the GCCI’s keen interest in the updating of the Local Content Schedule, adding that the Chamber is desirous of making further input—particularly in increasing the percentage of contracts carved out for local companies. Minister Bharrat assured the Chamber that the proposed updates will be shared for further consultation.
The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA)—an intergovernmental organisation that supports democracy worldwide through supporting the building, strengthening and safeguarding of democratic political institutions and processes at all levels—met with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on April 2, 2025, to discuss plans for elections awareness and voter education with the broader objective of supporting electoral integrity as Guyana approaches the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships Advisor, Mr. Luis Jose Consuegra; Programme Manager, Mr. Marcelo Varela, and Programme Assistant, Mr. Junior Chanderpaul met with President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott.
Discussions revolved around International IDEA’s plans for engaging in voter education, a project which is being funded by the European Union’s Delegation to Guyana. The International IDEA team provided an outline of its scope which includes civil society capacity building, voter education and tackling misinformation. It was also indicated that they will be collaborating with the Guyana Elections Commission to gather official information via the Commission’s manuals and handbooks.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on April 2, 2025 engaged Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn on crucial matters of national importance, including reducing the number of accidents on the roadways, road safety awareness initiatives, fire safety, traffic management and the availability of parking in the city, and the upcoming General and Regional Elections.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRaeGeorge; Councillor and Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mr. Orson Ferguson, and Councillor and Chairperson of the Governance and Security Committee, Mr. Paul Archer paid the minister a courtesy visit at his Brickdam, Georgetown office during these discussions were held.
The GCCI Councillors also commenced talks on collaborating with the ministry to host awareness sessions with its membership on the country’s immigration laws and the ministry’s immigration services.
GCCI meets with Minister of Parliamentary Affairs to discuss collaboration on anti-corruption initiatives - April 2, 2025
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia RamlaganPrescott; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr Richard Rambarran, and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Gail Teixeira on April 2, 2025 discussed a wide range of issues including collaborating for increased government stakeholder consultation with the GCCI and increasing education on anti-corruption practices and measures within the private sector, as well as preparations for the upcoming General and Regional Elections. The GCCI Executives paid a courtesy visit to the Minister at her office during which they engaged her in these areas.
GCCI Councillors meet with Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce - April 3, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 3, 2025 engaged Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon. Oneidge Walrond-Allicock on several issues including the recently imposed tariffs, access to finance, elections and increasing collaboration, among other issues.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs.Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRaeGeorge; and Councillor and Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mr. Orson Ferguson paid the minister a courtesy call at her office.
President Smith took the opportunity to raise concerns related to the need for digitalisation of services provided by the public sector, noting that the paper-based system and bureaucratic systems can frustrate business.
GCCI pays courtesy visit to British High Commissioner - April 4, 2025
President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Jane Miller OBE on April 4, 2025. The GCCI officials met with H.E Miller, alongside her team that included Country Director for Trade and Investment, Department for Business and Trade, British High Commission, Guyana and Suriname, Mr. Sherwyn Naughton; Country Trade and Investment Officer at British High Commission, Mrs. Kimberly SinghHanoman, and Trade and Investment Assistant, Mrs. Faith Trim-Browne.
The two parties discussed a number of important matters including local content development and utilisation, increasing bilateral trade as well as inbound and outbound trade missions, Guyana’s Human Resource needs, continuing collaborations, and skills development for both the labour force and Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises.
GCCI participates in Caribbean Ministers of Labour Conference - April 7, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 7, 2025 attended the 13th International Labour Organization (ILO) Caribbean Ministers of Labour Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George attended the conference that focused on key topics such as the ratification and implementation of International Labour Standards and Labour Laws in the Caribbean, social protection, skills development, lifelong learning, and occupational safety and health.
These focal points are aligned with the GCCI’s work plan as it relates to workforce development, capacity building, and addressing labour shortages.
GCCI Executives meet with Finance MinisterApril 8, 2025
Members of the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 8 met with Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the Minister at his office.
Among the issues discussed were access to finance for Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, the ease-of-doing-business, matters related to taxation and the agriculture sector.
Minister Singh stated that as a committed partner and friend to the private sector, he looks forward to close collaborations with the Chamber in keeping with the positive relationship that the two parties have developed over the years.
GCCI Executives meet with Minister of Human Services and Social Security - April 8, 2025
With a wide range of potential collaborations discussed, a team from the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 8, 2025 met with Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards engaged Minister Persaud at her Lamaha Street, Georgetown office on a number of potential collaborations geared towards improving employees’ wellbeing and skills development.
The Minister provided an overview of the initiatives being undertaken by her ministry, including childcare centres for working parents, skills development training, and women empowerment projects.
The Executives identified several areas for close collaboration and agreed to work closely with the ministry to finetune these partnership opportunities.
GCCI Executives meet with Minister of Agriculture - April 9, 2025
On April 9, 2025, President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Junior Vice President and Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards met with Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha to discuss areas for continued collaboration to further advance the sector.
Mrs. Smith provided the minister with an overview of the Chamber’s work, the recent elections, and the work of the various committees. The Executive Members also provided insights into a recent collaboration between the GCCI and the World University Services of Canada and several state agencies to host a Farmer-to-Business Symposium.
The Chamber expressed its commitment to supporting the development of the agriculture sector to aid the goal of Guyana being the breadbasket of the region. The Minister shared progress reports on several projects being undertaken by the ministry, including the rearing of prawns locally.
GCCI Executives engage EU Ambassador - April 9, 2025
A delegation of Executive Members from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid a courtesy call on Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Guyana, His Excellency, René Van Nes on April 9 at his office.
President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran had a fruitful engagement with the Ambassador on a wide range of topics including the Chamber’s increasing support for the agriculture sector, how access to the Schengen visa can improve business potential for local companies, preparations and support for the 2025 General and Regional Elections, encouraging value-added production, and more.
Discussions also delved into Economic Partnership Agreements with the EU that Guyanese businesses can benefit from, which make provisions for duty-free, quota-free export into the EU for Guyanese companies.
The President and Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on April 10, 2025 continued a walkabout in Georgetown to meet with members of the business community to better understand the support that they need and areas of collaboration.
President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Eusi Evelyn visited businesses in North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. The businesses included Hallmark, Kings Jewellry, John Lewis Styles, Vivaanta Ayurvedic Spa, Reaz Computer Centre and Gizmos and Gadgets.
The interactions saw fruitful discussions on challenges being experienced by these businesses and recommendations on the type of support they need in areas such as human resources as well as improvement in their business environs that would lead to increased opportunities to meet their customers’ needs.
Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with the Indian High Commissioner Dr. Amit Telang, to explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Guyana and India, with a focus on fostering business growth and knowledge exchange.
President of the GCCI, Kathy Smith, led the delegation comprised of Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar and Junior Vice President Brian Edwards. The meeting covered a range of strategic areas, including the advancement of technology and innovation, strengthening agricultural ties, expanding training and educational initiatives, and facilitating trade missions between the two nations.
GCCI hosts session with ExxonMobil Guyana to support member engagement in the energy sector - April 11, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry through its Petroleum Committee, recently hosted an engagement session with ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL), providing Chamber members with the opportunity to learn more about the company’s operations and future plans within the energy sector.
Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, shared key insights into the company’s operations, upcoming gas development projects, and the many opportunities available for local businesses to participate. He also highlighted EMGL’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and increasing local workforce participation, underscoring the importance of strong partnerships with the business community.
Chairman of the Petroleum Committee, Richard Rambarran, noted that this session forms part of the continued build-out of the Chamber’s efforts to consistently engage its membership.
of the People’s Republic of China - April 14, 2025
A GCCI delegation comprised of Kathy Smith - President, Brian EdwardsJunior Vice President, and Delmar Walcott - Councillor, paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and engaged with Mr. Li Hanqing, Economic and Commercial Counselor, to explore opportunities for expanding business collaboration and driving economic growth through strategic partnerships. The discussions also focused on enhancing agricultural practices, exchanging knowledge and technologies, and identifying new opportunities to support local farmers and strengthen agricultural ties between the two nations.
Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Nicole Theriot, Ambassador of the United States of America to Guyana, to explore areas of mutual collaboration across key sectors.
Discussions included local content and developments within the energy sector for local business participation. The meeting further explored opportunities in agriculture-focused enterprise development and technical training. Additional dialogue focused on import and export facilitation, the development of crop insurance mechanisms, and advancing human capital development through workforce training, innovation, and targeted capacity-building initiatives.
In attendance were GCCI President Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar, Junior Vice President Brian Edwards, Treasurer Melisa McRae George, Secretary Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Executive Member Richard Rambarran.
Ministry of Labour’s Annual OSHA Walk - April 27, 2025
Councillors, Members, and Staff of the GCCI participated in the Ministry of Labour’s Annual Occupational Health and Safety Awareness Walk 2025 on April 27, 2025.
Offshore Technology Conference 2025 - May 5-8, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated in the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2025 in Houston, Texas. On May 5, 2025, the Chamber opened its booth at the NRG Stadium with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Over 35 members were part of the GCCI delegation. President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith at the ribbon-cutting ceremony stated that the Chamber has been leading the Guyana delegation to OTC over the last few years. The conference is an annual event focusing on offshore energy, bringing together professionals to exchange ideas and advance technology.
Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference 2025 on May 5 met with officials from the American Petroleum Institute (API) to discuss potential collaborations.
Led by GCCI’s President, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the delegation met with API’s Director for Global Business Development, Alejandro Di Nunzio and Chief Representative for Latin America, Africa and Portugal, Delma Quintanilha. With almost 600 members, API represents all segments of the United States’ natural gas and oil industry—with members involved in the production, processing and distribution of majority of the nation’s energy. It is also a standards-setting organisation and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability. For almost a century, the Institute has led the development of petroleum, natural gas and petrochemical equipment and operating standards that are the most widely cited standards by the international regulatory community.
This meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for Guyanese companies to interact with these officials to better understand how they can tap into the services offered by API for the benefit of their organisations.
Led by President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the Chamber’s delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), visited the TechnipFMC facilities in Texas.
The delegation met with the company’s officials, Tom Hergarden and Julia Hedderson who shared information on subsea facilities and their international footprint.
The delegation also benefited from a visit to the company’s demonstration area.
Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2025: Around the World Series - May 6, 2025
The Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2025 continued on May 6,2025 with Guyana being featured on the ‘Around the World Series’—a panel discussion which saw the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) delegation providing crucial insights into the country’s energy sector development.
During the discourse, which was moderated by Chief Executive Officer of Sagacity Inc. Mr. Christopher Chapwanya, President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith provided a candid overview of the GCCI’s focus on local content and ensuring benefits for local companies that are in partnerships with foreign companies. She noted that the GCCI was the proponent of local content legislation in Guyana. She also provided insights into the development of the local private sector’s development, as well as the growth of the Chamber’s membership to close to 1000 over the last several years.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on May 15, 2025 participated in a meeting of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN), which saw discussions on improving trade relations with Brazil. The GCCI was represented by Councillor and Trade and Investment Committee Chairperson, Mr. Eusi Evelyn. Also present at the meeting were Councillor, Mr. Timothy Tucker, and Vice Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Theon Alleyne.
The meeting saw stakeholders from a number of government agencies and the private sector discussing concerns related to current trade flows and how this can be improved, including through infrastructural development.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was pleased to support the Berbice Engagement Forum hosted by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited in collaboration with the ACE Consulting Group.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith along with Councillors Dr. Rosh Khan and Delmar Walcott, and member, Mr. Gavin Bynoe attended the event on May 16 at Leisure Inn, New Amsterdam, Berbice during which they were able to interact with members of the Berbice business community.
GCCI participates in Afrieximbank business forum - May 21, 2025
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith addressed a business forum at the Guyana Marriott on May 21 which was hosted by the Afreximbank under the theme “Empowering Local Content Participation for Sustainable Prosperity through the Implementation of Afreximbank’s Mandate.”
This event was geared towards advancing the bank’s US$1 Billion oil servicing financing facility to Guyanese businesses by showcasing its key programmes as well as its financial and nonfinancial solutions to support local participation through the oil and gas value chain. It also provided a platform for local businesses to learn about the financing opportunities that are available to them.
Mrs. Smith, in her address, reflected on the event’s theme, saying that it “is at the core of our mission as the private sector, ensuring that local businesses are equipped to thrive in an increasingly competitive and dynamic environment.”
by the Minister of Labour - May 28, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on May 28, 2025 hosted a presentation by the Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton and a team of senior officials from his ministry.
This well-attended event was coordinated by the Human Resource Management and Capacity-Building Committee of the GCCI. President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith in her opening remarks noted the importance of compliance for businesses operating in Guyana. As such, she said the GCCI is committed to ensuring that its membership is well-informed and meets the legal requirements as it relates to their workforce.
Meanwhile, the Minister provided an overview of the services that are provided by his Ministry, including advisory services, training, and technical skills development for employees. He urged members of the private sector to access these crucial services that are provided by the ministry free of cost.
GCCI meets with Chargé d’affaires for the Embassy of Brazil - May 28, 2025
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Secretary, Mrs. Kristia RamlaganPrescott on May 28, 2025 met with Chargé d’affaires for the Embassy of Brazil, Mr. Paulo Valença and Commercial Specialist in the Embassy’s Trade and Investments Section, Ms. Terrianna Selby.
Mrs. Smith provided an overview of the GCCI, its mandate and achievements, as well as potential areas for collaboration. Chargé d’affaires Valença also shared a number of areas in which Brazil is seeking closer ties with Guyana, particularly Disaster Management, Oil Spill Prevention and Management, Logistics, Climate Change, and the Energy sector.
GCCI participates in World Environment Day Green Walk 2025 - June 1, 2025
GCCI collaborates with EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana to host Investment Mission - June 2, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on June 2, through a collaboration with the EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana facilitated crucial discussions with EU companies in the health and pharmaceuticals industry and the local private sector.This discourse was part of the ‘Global Gateway Health and Pharma EU Investment Mission Guyana’ and was hosted at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. It featured a panel discussion under the theme ‘Guyana Private Sector: Business overview and opportunities,’ that saw the participation of President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Member of the Private Sector Commission, Dr. Surendra Persaud, and Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association Representative, Ms. Gina Arjoon. This session was moderated by Councillor and Executive Member of the Chamber, Mr. Richard Rambarran.
GCCI collaborates with EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana to host Investment Mission - June 2, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on June 2, through a collaboration with the EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana facilitated crucial discussions with EU companies in the health and pharmaceuticals industry and the local private sector.This discourse was part of the ‘Global Gateway Health and Pharma EU Investment Mission Guyana’ and was hosted at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. It featured a panel discussion under the theme ‘Guyana Private Sector: Business overview and opportunities,’ that saw the participation of President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Member of the Private Sector Commission, Dr. Surendra Persaud, and Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association Representative, Ms. Gina Arjoon. This session was moderated by Councillor and Executive Member of the Chamber, Mr. Richard Rambarran.
On June 5, 2025, officials of JSE paid a courtesy call on Executive Members of the GCCI at the Chamber’s Secretariat, during which several areas for further collaborations were discussed. President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Immediate Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Kester Hutson met with JSE’s Managing Director, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest; Manager, Marketing and Communications, Mr. Neville Ellis; Manager, Group Business Development, Mr. Andre Gooden; Principal, e-Campus, Mr. Kevin Powell; Deputy Business Development Manager, Michael Johnson; Administrator, e-Campus, Ms. Alafia Dally, and JSE’s local support personnel, Mr. Rawle Nelson.
GCCI facilitates ‘Doing Business in Guyana’ presentation for potential Jamaican Investors - June 12, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on June 12, 2025 facilitated a ‘Doing Business in Guyana’ presentation for the visiting Jamaican business delegation that is being spearheaded by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO). The diverse group of businesses from Jamaica were in Guyana on a four-day ‘Guyana Export and Ministerial Business Mission 2025’ that was geared towards deepening commercial ties between the two countries by exploring trade and investment opportunities through targeted business-to-business (B2B) engagements.
The Mission—JAMPRO’s fourth to Guyana thus far—was also aimed at building long-term relationships, seeking strategic partnerships, and exploring collaborations that are mutually beneficial. Accompanying the group was Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Senator, the Honourable Aubyn Hill.
Executive Member and Councillor of the GCCI, Mr. Richard Rambarran in his presentation to the group provided an economic overview and insights into Guyana’s development trajectory.
GCCI and DR Chamber of Commerce in Guyana discuss areas for closer collaboration - June 13, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana (DRChamGuyana) on June 13, 2025 met at the GCCI’s Secretariat to discuss areas for closer collaboration.
Vice President of DRChamGuyana, Mr. Khishan Singh and Executive Director, Ms. Leonida Minalla Foo met with GCCI’s President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Eusi Evelyn; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Trade and Investment Consultant, Ms. Jessica Campbell. Aimed at increasing increased bilateral trade and engagement between Guyana and the Dominican Republic, the discussion delved into potential trade missions and partnering for joint capacitybuilding initiatives.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held the third iteration of its Business Breakfast Seminar on June 19, 2025 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. This event, which was sponsored by the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), saw over 120 attendees benefiting from invaluable information on navigating ‘Finance and Banking’ in Guyana’s evolving business landscape, with expert guidance from key stakeholders in the finance sector including Chairperson of the Guyana Association of Bankers Incorporated, Ms. Nafeeza Gaffoor; Executive Director of NewHayven Merchant Bank, Mr. Kurt Kisto, and Chief Executive Officer of the GBTI, Mr. Shawn Gurcharran. Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh delivered the feature address.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith in her opening remarks, highlighted the importance of this initiative, which was designed to ensure that businesses are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to propel their operations.
Continuing with efforts to meet local businesses and understand their challenges and support needed, Council members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry—led by President, Mrs. Kathy Smith—on June 27 met with businesses on Regent Street, Georgetown during the third iteration of the ‘Council Walkabout’.
The Councillors visited businesses including Pressy’s Enterprise, Broadway Fashion, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, Republic Bank, Caribbean Airlines, and Beepats. The Councillors also took the opportunity to meet with vendors and small businesses to determine how the Chamber can provide support to them in navigating their operations amidst any challenges they may be facing.
Among the issues raised were challenges with parking in the area, and irregular waste disposal pick-up schedules which lead to sanitation issues. Some businesses also indicated that they are examining how they can diversify their services to align with Guyana’s changing business landscape.
On June 19, 2025, President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Junior Vice President and Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards met with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Representative in Guyana, Dr. Gillian Smith to discuss potential collaborations between the two organisations to execute these programmes.
The GCCI President shared an overview of the GCCI and its committees, as well as a cursory view of the membership. She also highlighted the objectives of the Learning Centre as it relates to farmers, particularly the goal of shifting them away from the traditional ‘buy and sell’ mode of operation into a standardised operation with the potential to export their products. As part of this initiative, training will be provided in a number of areas including marketing, branding, packaging, financial literacy, and the development of a sustainable business, she explained. The Agriculture Committee Chairperson also noted that the Chamber is seeking to work with organisations to build out the Agriculture Outreach Programme that has been executed over the last two years across the country.
GCCI, United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, and the Global Compact Caribbean Network collaborate to host a Private Sector Sustainable Development Forum - June 24, 2025
On June 24, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, and the Global Compact Caribbean Network collaborated to host a Private Sector Sustainable Development Forum at the Grand Coastal Hotel.
The forum sought to sensitise members on how their business operations and policies can be aligned to the Principles of the Global Compact, Women’s Empowerment Principles, Children’s Rights and Business Principles, Business and Human Rights Principles, and other international business principles and standards, while providing a platform for private sector partners to showcase their alignment and contributions to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Guyana. The GCCI President noted that this collaboration was aimed at propelling private sector support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
International IDEA updates GCCI on initiatives for voter education and supporting electoral integrity - June 25, 2025
On June 25, 2025, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith met with officials from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), the organisation that executed a programme funded by the European Union to support electoral integrity in Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections.
International IDEA’s Programme Manager, Ambassador Marcelo Varela-Erasheva, and Programme Officer, Mr. Junior Paul Chanderpaul met with Mrs. Smith in the GCCI’s boardroom and provided an update on the execution of the programme as well as outlined some planned initiatives for voter education.
Mrs. Smith also updated the International IDEA team on the Chamber’s progress in establishing its Observer Group, and the two officials discussed collaborating to train the observers.
GCCI hosts meeting with Local Content Secretariat - June 26, 2025
On June 26,2025, the Chamber hosted Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr. Martin Pertab, who fielded questions from members as it relates to local content development and spend, opportunities, policy direction, and the updating of the Local Content Schedule.
This meeting was organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum and Local Content Committee, which is chaired by Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran. Noting the change in the committee’s name, Mr. Rambarran disclosed, “The Committee’s name has been altered to reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of the Guyanese economy. As local content has become a more important and a more prominent pillar within the economy, we have renamed the ‘Petroleum Committee’ to ‘Petroleum and Local Content Committee’. Aligned with the meeting, he stated that the Committee will continue to have regular discussions and honed-in focus on local content development and advocacy.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith also emphasised the importance of local companies being integrated into the oil and gas sector.
Annual Caricom Day BBQ and Mixer - July 8, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry held its annual Caricom Day BBQ and Mixer at Palm Court on July 8, 2025. This event allowed members to meet and interact.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada, on July 9 held a ‘Farmer-to-Business Symposium’ at the Woodley Park Resource Centre, West Coast Berbice that saw farmers, and representatives of restaurants, supermarkets, and other businesses within the agriculture supply chain being able to network while accessing invaluable information. This symposium aimed to develop a sustainable and robust agriculture market system that promotes food security, boosts productivity, and drives economic prosperity for farmers by enhancing competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusivity through commercialisation and modernisation.
GCCI participates in PPP/C manifesto consultation meeting - July 16, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in the Manifesto Consultations held by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the Ramada Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara on July 16, 2025.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith took the opportunity to advocate for support for the business community in several areas. The issues she raised included grants and tax writeoff programmes for private sector investment in high-yield sustainable agriculture and agro-processing; tailored tax and financial incentives for registered consortia investing in national priority sectors; five-year tax incentives for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises that become publicly listed on Guyana’s Stock Exchange; Simplification of tax systems; removal of VAT on environmental services, and support for women entrepreneurs in meeting compliance requirements and business development.
Mrs. Smith also highlighted the updating of the Local Content Act and the amendment of the schedule of services as a priority area.
This was the second such engagement with political parties and follows a meeting with the Alliance For Change. The Chamber will continue meeting with the contesting parties to discuss their development strategies.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) launched the 2025 ‘Teenternship Programme on Friday, July 25 at the GCCI’s Waterloo Street, Georgetown Secretariat.
This two-week programme saw 15 Grades 10 and 11 students from School of the Nations and Camille’s Academy benefiting from practical work experience, with keen focus on leadership, teamwork, communication, problemsolving, and management during their attachment at 14 member companies of the GCCI.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted representatives of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) at its office to discuss preparations for the General and Regional Elections. This engagement was part of the EU EOM’s broader efforts to meet with key stakeholders across Guyana’s electoral landscape; including civil society, the media, political actors, electoral authorities, and the private sector; in pursuit of a comprehensive and impartial assessment of the electoral process.
The Chamber hosted the President’s Reception on August 8, 2025 in the GCCI Boardroom, where new members who joined between April and July 2025 we welcomed. The event was attended by President Kathy S. Smith, Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar, Treasurer Melisa McRae-George, Councillors Paul Archer and Dee George, along with Councillor and Chair of the Membership and Diversity Committee Keon Howard.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Saturday, August 9, successfully concluded the 2025 iteration of its National Small Business Week with a business seminar. This flagship event, which saw the participation of scores of businesses, entrepreneurs and students provided an invaluable capacity-building and networking opportunity for all participants.
The NSBW Seminar and Expo—held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre—featured businesses showcasing and selling their products, and marketing their services.
GCCI President meets with Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic - August 12
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continues to pursue collaborations for the benefit of its membership, and on August 12, President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith met with Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, Mr. Carlos Alfaro and discussed potential areas for partnership.
Mrs. Smith provided an overview of the Chamber’s history, role and activities, while broaching potential areas for collaboration that are geared towards increasing trade relations between Guyana and Argentina. The two parties committed to continuing talks on prospective trade missions and similar activities aimed at connecting Guyanese and Argentinian businesses.
GCCI participates in International Building Expo 2025 - August 14-16, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is participated in the International Building Expo 2025, with President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith addressing the opening ceremony on August 14 at the Guyana National Stadium.
In her remarks, President Smith highlighted the appropriate nature of the event’s theme, “The Road to Success: Guyana 2030 and beyond,” saying that it broadly examines the development trajectory that the country is on. Members of the GCCI also participated in the Expo through a GCCI booth.
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, along with members of the Private Sector Commission on August 28, met with members of the Caricom and Commonwealth Elections Observer Missions.
The meeting with the Caricom team occurred at the Caricom Secretariat, Turkeyen. Meanwhile the private sector met with the Commonwealth delegation at the Aiden by Best Western Hotel, where President Smith was joined by Executive Member and Past President of the GCCI, Mr. Timothy Tucker.
These engagements saw discussions on the Chamber’s role as an Accredited Observer body, the GCCI’s plan for Election Day, and the role of Observers and their conduct. At these meetings, the Chamber iterated its position of seeking to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on August 28 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster cooperation and increased collaboration in order to undertake several environmental and beautification initiatives jointly, as well as capacity building projects for the tourism sector.
The MoU, which was signed by President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith and President of THAG, Mr. Mitra Ramkumar at a simple ceremony at Herdmanston Lodge, was the realisation of discussions that commenced during the tenures of former THAG President and GCCI Councillor, Mrs. Dee George and former GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson.
The catalyst of this MoU was a shared recognition of the importance of a strong, clean, and attractive physical and social environment in fostering economic opportunity, improving quality of life, and stimulating sustainable tourism growth. The MoU also seeks to collaboratively address shared challenges, including poor customer service standards, inadequate waste management, and weak environmental stewardship through longterm, multi-stakeholder strategies that engage the private sector, schools, and local communities.
GCCI meets with OAS Elections Observer Mission - August 30, 2025
The President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy S. Smith, along with Councillors on August 30, met with members of the Organisation of American States (OAS) Elections Observer Mission.
The meeting with the OAS delegation occurred at the Pegasus Hotel, and saw the attendance of Executive Member and Past President, Mr. Timothy Tucker and Councillors, Mr. Rayad Boyce and Ms. Mary Nagasar.
The GCCI team engaged the OAS Electoral Observation Mission team, led by Hon. Bruce Golding, former Prime Minister of Jamaica, on key aspects of the upcoming 2025 General and Regional Elections in Guyana inclusive of the electoral process, List of Electors, electoral technology, electoral justice, political-electoral finance, and the political participation of women.
The GCCI reiterated its support for free, fair, and transparent elections that are accompanied by credible and timely results.
GCCI meets with new Senior Commercial Officer at the United States EmbassySeptember 30, 2025
Members of the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Commercial Section of the U.S Embassy met on September 30, and the meeting saw discussions with Senior Commercial Officer at the United States Embassy, Mr. Bruce J. Ellsworth. He was accompanied by Commercial Specialist,
Ms. Amanda Edmondson, and Commercial Assistant, Ms. Tocoma Alexis, and met with President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Executive Member and Immediate Past President, Mr. Kester Hutson.
The conversation delved into support for inbound and outbound missions, trade show participation, and franchising support, as well as connecting members of the health industry with international companies in this sector.
The two parties committed to continuing this discourse and fostering a closer relationship for the benefit of private sector development.
Energy Insights Breakfast Brief 2025 - October 2, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on October 2 hosted its ‘Energy Insights Breakfast Brief’ that was geared towards ensuring that local businesses are informed of current and emerging opportunities for their advancement, including contracts and capacitybuilding initiatives being undertaken by oil
industry operatives. The event also provided a platform for attendees to benefit from an overview of the government’s strategic plans for economic development and modernisation of the business landscape, while delivering updates on operations within the oil and gas industry. Held in the Atlantic Ballroom of the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, the event saw the keynote address being delivered by His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Chaired by Senior Vice President of the GCCI, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the event also saw remarks being delivered by GCCI President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Production Manager and Vice President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Mr. Huzefa Ali—who updated the audience on ExxonMobil Guyana’s operations and its investment into local content. The engagement also featured a panel discussion, moderated by Chief Executive Officer of Sagacity Incorporated, Mr. Christopher Chapwanya, that delved into the operations, growth and local content utilisation of Prime Contractors of the oil sector. The panelists included General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, Mr. Martin Cheong; Country Manager for MODEC Guyana, Mr. Rafael Fumis; Chief Executive Officer of Guyana Shore Base Incorporated, Mr. Oliver Kassam; Managing Director of Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase Incorporated, Mr. Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer, and Supply Chain Manager of Saipem Guyana, Mr. Diego Vicke.
Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met on October 7 to discuss the nine interventions announced by His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to address the challenges surrounding access to foreign exchange in Guyana.
During the hybrid meeting that featured in-person and virtual participation, members examined the nature of the interventions and the foreign exchange market.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) boardroom was abuzz on the evening of Thursday, October 9, 2025, as members gathered for a networking session that featured informative presentations on key topics such ‘The Future of Hybrid and Remote Work’ and ‘Succession Planning and Employment Contracts for Hybrid & Remote Work’.
Hosted by the GCCI’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee--chaired by Mrs. Melisa McRae-George and Vice Chairperson, Ms. Holly Persaud--the event provided a platform for members to meet and engage each other on key issues affecting their workforce. Attendees also benefited from insights into the Chamber’s operations, workplan and areas of advocacy.
Members of the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on October 14 paid a courtesy call on Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Hon. Deodat Indar, during which a number of pressing matters related to the business community were discussed.
President, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Executive Member and Immediate Past President, Mr. Kester Hutson, and Executive Member and Past President, Mr. Timothy Tucker formed the GCCI delegation to the meeting that also saw the attendance of Parliamentary Secretary, Ms. Thandi McAllister and Director General of the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Mr. Alfonso De Armas.
GCCI meets with Minister within the Ministry of Culture ,Youth, and Sports - October 17, 2025
Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Executive Management Committee (EMC) on Friday, October 17 met with Minister within the Ministry of Culture ,Youth, and Sports, Hon. Steven Jacobs.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Immediate Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Kester Hutson paid a courtesy visit to the minister at his office.
During the meeting, the development of sports tourism in Guyana was discussed, and how the private sector can collaborate with the government to propel the sector. The Chamber committed its support to this initiative, and the two parties agreed to further the discourse on this partnership.
As the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) advances its work plan for the development of Guyana’s business landscape, high on the agenda is engaging members of the private sector on areas of interest.
On October 21, President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith, and Councillors Ms. Dee George and Mr. Delmar Walcott met with Managing Director of ANSA McAL Distribution Incorporated, Mr. Troy Cadogan and discussed matters related to the development of the business community. This engagement was geared towards understanding the needs of the private sector and how the Chamber can support their growth, as well as areas for collaboration.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Tuesday, October 28, commissioned its Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre—a groundbreaking facility that will support the growth and development of businesses with keen attention to women-owned and womenled businesses, and farmers.
Located on the middle floor of the GCCI, the facility features a training room, boardroom, and three offices that will house technical officers who will support the beneficiaries through a wide range of services including capacity building in areas including but not limited to business development, marketing, preparation of proposals, financial education, and compliance. The Centre was developed through a partnership with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada.
GCCI hosts third annual Cancer Awareness Fundraiser and Mixer - October 29, 2025
On Wednesday, October 29, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran to raise funds to support the renovation of the Cancer Institute of Guyana’s laundry facilities, as well as free screening for members through the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association.
The event saw scores of members and supporters of the Chamber converging at Palm Court to support this worthy cause. Last year, the activity raised $1 million, which was donated towards the renovation of the Institute’s CT scanner room.
GCCI and Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation host presentation - November 4, 2025
On November 4, the Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Hon. Zulfikar Ally partnered with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to launch the Ministry’s online SkillsConnect Application that is geared towards connecting service providers and tradesmen to clients. The launch was held in the GCCI’s boardroom and attended by members of the Chamber both in-person and online.
GCCI Executives meet with Minister Zulfikare Ally - November 6, 2025
With focus on collaborating to build the capacity of local businesses—including in areas such as customer service and communication—Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 6 discussed areas of support for businesses in Guyana, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises, with Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Hon. Zulfikar Ally.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Executive Member and Past President, Mr. Timothy Tucker paid a courtesy visit to the minister at his office during which they discussed a range of potential collaborations for upskilling of employees and entrepreneurs, as well as increasing efficiency in operations.
Ministry of Housing launches consultations on Georgetown Drainage Improvement Project with GCCI - November 7, 2025
The Government of Guyana through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will be undertaking a Georgetown Drainage Improvement Project that is geared towards improving the drainage infrastructure in the city to prevent flooding.
On November 7, Minister of Housing, Hon. Collin Croal; Chief Development Planner for the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), Ms. Germene Stewart; Chairman of the NDIA, Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, and Chief Sea and River Defence Officer at the Ministry of Public Works, Mr. Kevin Samad along with representatives from related state agencies launched the consultations for the project with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) at the Chamber Secretariat.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) Business Development Forum (BDF) 2025 was successfully executed on November 13 and 14 at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, with keen attention being paid to the advancement of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME).
The two-day event featured an expert line-up of presenters and panelists who delved into areas such as Environmental and Social Governance (ESG), Sustainability, Diversification, Finance and Investment, and Export Readiness.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was a proud participant in GuyExpo 2025, with the Chamber’s booth featuring several members across varying sectors. On Thursday, October 13, President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith also participated in the opening ceremony of GuyExpo, addressing the hundreds of attendees at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continues to advocate for Guyanese businesses to benefit from the oil and gas sector. The Chamber, the proponent of the Local Content Act, on November 19, hosted a meeting with the Local Content Secretariat and its members to discuss crucial matters related to the legislation and its implementation.
Director of the Secretariat, Mr. Michael Munroe and his team attended the engagement with President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Chairperson of the Petroleum and Local Content Secretariat, Mr. Richard Rambarran, Councillors, and Members of the GCCI.
A key focal area in the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) work plan is increased collaboration with the business community for the advancement of the country’s economy and business landscape. Crucial to the accomplishment of this objective is having active engagements with companies operating in Guyana, and on November 19, President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith led a team of Executive Members and Councillors of the GCCI in a meeting with the leadership team of Massy Guyana.
The President along with Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Executive Member and Immediate Past President, Mr. Kester Hutson, and Councillors Mr. Devon Seeram, Ms. Mary Nagasar, Mr. Keon Howard, and Mr. Delmar Walcott engaged in the meeting at the Massy Ruimveldt location.
The Massy Guyana team comprised Assistant Vice President and General Manager of Massy Stores, Mr. Christpen Bobb-Semple; Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer for IRP, Mr. Troy Beharry; Chief Executive Officer of Massy Gas, Mr. Augustus Harris; Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Massy Motors, Mr Rohit Coonjah; Vice President (Commercial) of Massy Gas, Mr. Hekima Paul, and Head of Regional IT and Guyana Operations for Massy Remittances, Mr. Norrhan Parboo.
GCCI engages with agro-processors and producers to export produce regionally - December 9, 2025
Through an initiative of His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Guyanese producers and agro-processors now have the opportunity to market their produce regionally. The President has sourced markets for locally made products that will be exported to Trinidad and Barbados to be distributed by Ansa McAL.
On December 9, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards met with several agro-processors and producers of local products, and connected them to the Ministry of Public Service, Efficiency and Implementation so that they can benefit from this programme. The businesses were able to learn more about the objectives of the initiative and requirements, and register for participation.
GCCI’s 136th Annual Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted its 136th Annual Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner on December 11 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith opened the event, while presentations were delivered by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon. Susan Rodrigues; Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Oneidge Walrond, and Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Hon. Zulfikar Ally. Meanwhile, the keynote address was made virtually by Prime Minister of Barbados, Hon. Mia Mottley. Browse our gallery for scenes from the gala.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Chairperson of the Membership and Diversity Committee, Mr. Keon Howard; Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Administrative Manager, Mr. Rene Daniels recently presented a cheque for $402,000 along with a $100,000 voucher from Courts Guyana to the Institute for the execution of the refurbishment. This follows the donation of $1 million towards patient support in 2025.
The GCCI remains committed to supporting the fight against cancer through awareness and support initiatives.
GCCI participates in National Budget Consultations with Minister of Finance - January 17, 2026
The Chamber participated in a meeting at the Ministry of Finance which allowed representatives of the sector to raise and discuss issues of interest as the government intensified its preparations for Budget 2026.
With discussions on strengthening relations and exploring possibilities for bilateral trade, Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on January 21 met with Ambassador of the French Republic to Guyana, His Excellency Mr. Olivier Plançon; Economic Affairs Officer, Mr. Louis Brugel, and Foreign Trade Advisor, Mr. Jean François-Gerin.
The French delegation met with President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker at the GCCI Secretariat.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), following the concerns raised on continuous challenges being experienced by businesses as it relates to the shipping industry, met with the Shipping Association of Guyana on January 27 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
The meeting was convened to address matters such as unilateral increases in fees, delayed clearance and extended peak period charges that were raised by members of the GCCI as well as the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association (GCHBCA).
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith disclosed that the meeting was sought following mounting concerns by members who have been significantly affected by delays in the handover of their cargo–leading to inflated storage fees. She noted that these issues have implications for project deadlines as well as consumer costs.
Issues such as delayed receipt of documentation, increases in port fees, and the need for continued communication were raised and discussed.
GCCI hosts Petroleum Sector Update - January 30, 2026
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), through the Petroleum and Local Content Committee under the chairmanship of Councillor Mr. Richard Rambarran, hosted a Petroleum Sector Update on January 30 in the GCCI Boardroom where Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat, and the Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Mr. Michael Munroe provided crucial information on plans for the energy sector. The session was also attended by Senior Petroleum Coordinator for the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Bobby Gossai Jr.
President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith noted the importance of such engagements in ensuring that the positive working relationship between the Chamber and the government is maintained.
The Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee on February 3, 2026, hosted an information session in collaboration with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS)
NIS Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Dianne Lewis-Baxter conducted the session and provided an overview of benefits and qualifying conditions to access them. The 30 in-person and 99 virtual attendees were given the opportunity to ask questions and raise concerns on matters regarding processes.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and several members participated in the Guyana Energy Conference exhibition in the GCCI Pavilion, while President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith participated in a panel discussion and delivered remarks during the conference.
• ●April 2: Resource Mobilisation and Partnerships Advisor, Mr. Luis Jose Consuegra; Programme Manager, Mr. Marcelo Varela, and Programme Assistant, Mr. Junior Chanderpaul met with President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott. The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). An intergovernmental organisation that supports democracy worldwide through supporting the building, strengthening and safeguarding of democratic political institutions and processes at all levels to discuss plans for elections awareness and voter education with the broader objective of supporting electoral integrity as Guyana approaches the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
• April 2: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 2 held a ‘Farmerto-Business Symposium’ at the Splashmin’s Conference Room that saw over 90 participants, including farmers, and representatives of restaurants, supermarkets, and other businesses within the agriculture supply chain benefiting from direct engagement between producers and buyers.
• April 2: The GCCI Executives paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Natural Resources Hon. Vickram Bharrat. President Smith provided the minister with an overview of the recently held Annual General Meeting of the Chamber, and the newly elected Executive Management Committee and Council. In her discussions with Minister Bharrat, President Smith pointed out that the GCCI’s membership has significantly increased over the last several years with many members being able to tap into the oil and gas industry and indicated the GCCI’s keen interest in the updating of the Local Content Schedule, adding that the Chamber is desirous of making further input particularly in increasing the percentage of contracts carved out for local companies.
• April 2: The Executives of the GCCI engaged Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn, on crucial matters of national importance, including reducing the number of accidents on the roadways, road safety awareness initiatives, fire safety, traffic management and the availability of parking in the city, and the upcoming General and Regional Elections.
• April 2: President Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr Richard Rambarran, paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Gail Teixeira to discussed a wide range of issues including collaborating for increased government stakeholder consultation with the GCCI and increasing education on anti-corruption practices and measures within the private sector, as well as preparations for the upcoming General and Regional Elections.
• April 3: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 3 engaged Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon. Oneidge Walrond-Allicock on several issues, including the recently imposed tariffs, access to finance, elections and increasing collaboration, among other issues. President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; and Councillor and Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mr. Orson Ferguson paid the minister a courtesy call at her office. President Smith took the opportunity to raise concerns related to the need for digitalisation of services provided by the public sector, noting that the paper-based system and bureaucratic systems
and bureaucratic systems can frustrate business. On the issue of access to finance, the Minister in response to the President’s advocacy for increased access to capital for micro, small and medium sized enterprises stated that mechanisms to address these are being examined and requested data from the Chamber to support this process. Other matters included Non-Tariff Barriers and General and Regional Elections.
• April 4: President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran paid a courtesy visit to British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Jane Miller OBE.
• April 7: Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) attended the 13th International Labour Organization (ILO) Caribbean Ministers of Labour Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
• April 8: Members of the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid a courtesy call to the Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh. President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Secretary, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran was in attendance.
• April 8: With a wide range of potential collaborations discussed, the Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met with Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud.
• ●April 9: Executive Management Committee paid a courtesy call on Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Guyana, His Excellency, René Van Nes.
• ●April 10: The President and Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continued a walkabout in Georgetown to meet with members of the business community to better understand the support that they need and areas of collaboration.
• April 11: The Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) met with the Indian High Commissioner Dr. Amit Telang, to explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Guyana and India, with a focus on fostering business growth and knowledge exchange.
• April 11: Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, shared key insights into the company’s operations, upcoming gas development projects, and the many opportunities available for local businesses to participate. He also highlighted EMGL’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and increasing local workforce participation, underscoring the importance of strong partnerships with the business community. This initiative was spearheaded by the GCCI’s Petroleum Committee.
• April 14: The GCCI delegation, comprised of Kathy Smith - President, Brian Edwards - Junior Vice President, and Delmar Walcott - Councillor, paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and engaged with Mr. Li Hanqing, Economic and Commercial Counsellor, to explore opportunities for expanding business collaboration and driving economic growth through strategic partnerships.
• April 16: Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Nicole Theriot, Ambassador of the United States of America to Guyana, to explore areas of mutual collaboration across key sectors. Discussions included local content and developments within the energy sector for local business participation.
further explored opportunities in agriculture-focused enterprise development and technical training. Additional dialogue focused on import and export facilitation, the development of crop insurance mechanisms, and advancing human capital development through workforce training, innovation, and targeted capacity-building initiatives.
• April 16: His Excellency Asad Alam Siam, Non-Resident High Commissioner (designate) of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, paid a courtesy call to the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
• April 22: The Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) met with the Mexican Ambassador, H.E Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo to explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Guyana and Mexico.
• ●April 23: The President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Mrs. Kathy Smith paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister Mark Phillips. Also attending the meeting was Executive Member Gavin Ramsoondar, Senior Vice President, Brian Edwards, Junior Vice President and Kester Hutson, Past President.
• ●May 5: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas. The Chamber opened its booth at the NRG Stadium with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Over 35 members were part of the GCCI delegation. The conference is an annual event focusing on offshore energy, bringing together professionals to exchange ideas and advance technology. Over the years, members of the GCCI’s delegation have benefited from invaluable networking opportunities, which paved the way for discussions on joint ventures and investments.
• May 5: Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference met with officials from the American Petroleum Institute (API) to discuss potential collaborations. Led by GCCI’s President, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the delegation met with API’s Director for Global Business Development, Alejandro Di Nunzio and Chief Representative for Latin America, Africa and Portugal, Delma Quintanilha.
• ●May 6: The Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2025 continued with Guyana being featured on the ‘Around the World Series’ panel discussion, which saw the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) delegation providing crucial insights into the country’s energy sector development.
• ●May 7: The Health and Wellness Sub-Committee facilitated a webinar for the GCCI membership on the “Hidden Time Bomb in your Career” with Psychologist Latoya Tucker, and on burnout and young professionals.
• May 7: Led by President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the Chamber’s delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), visited the TechnipFMC facilities in Texas. The delegation met with the company’s officials, Tom Hergarden and Julia Hedderson, who shared information on subsea facilities and their international footprint. The delegation also benefited from a visit to the company’s demonstration area.
• May 12: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on May 15 participated in a meeting of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN), which saw discussions on improving trade relations with Brazil. The GCCI was represented by Councillor and Trade and Investment Committee Chairperson, Mr. Eusi Evelyn. Also present at the meeting were Councillor, Mr. Timothy Tucker, and Vice Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Theon Alleyne. The meeting saw stakeholders from several government agencies and the private sector discussing concerns related to current trade flows and how this can be improved, including through infrastructural development.
• ●May 16: President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith, along with Councillors Dr. Rosh Khan and Delmar Walcott, and a member, Mr. Gavin Bynoe, attended the event on May 16 at Leisure Inn, New Amsterdam, Berbice, during which they were able to interact with members of the Berbice business community. The GCCI was pleased to support the Berbice Engagement Forum hosted by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited in collaboration with the ACE Consulting Group.
• ●May 21: With emphasis on the opportunities and the room for investment in Guyana, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith encouraged the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to meet with organisations and businesses in Guyana to develop the footprint of its financing programme in the country. Mrs. Smith was at the time addressing a business forum at the Guyana Marriott on May 21, which was hosted by the Afreximbank under the theme “Empowering Local Content Participation for Sustainable Prosperity through the Implementation of Afreximbank’s Mandate.”
• May 28: Senior officials from the Ministry of Labour held an engagement on Wednesday with members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in a landmark session aimed at deepening collaboration between government and the private sector. The focus: ensuring legal compliance, developing the workforce, and driving inclusive economic progress. Held at the GCCI’s Boardroom in Georgetown, the forum featured a keynote address by Joseph Hamilton, Minister of Labour, and remarks by Ms Kathy Smith, President of the GCCI. The session was facilitated by the Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee.
• ●June 1: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated in the World Environment Day Green Walk 2025, organised by the Environmental Protection Agency.
• ●June 2: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continues to facilitate invaluable conversations between investors and local stakeholders to encourage investment and partnerships. The collaboration with the EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana resulted in the execution of crucial discussions with EU companies in the health and pharmaceuticals industry and the local private sector.
• June 3: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith gave remarks at the launch of the University of Guyana’s 2025 ‘Money Week’ at the Turkeyen Campus on June 3. Mrs. Smith, an entrepreneur in the construction sector, emphasised that wealth, stability, and progress are not built overnight but rather “step-by-step, decision-bydecision, and dollar-by-dollar.”
• June 3: Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged a number of European businesses in the health and pharmaceuticals industry during business-tobusiness (B2B) meetings facilitated by the Chamber in collaboration with the EU Global Gateway and EU Delegation in Guyana.
• June 5: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Immediate Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Kester Hutson was paid a courtesy visit by JSE’s Managing Director, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest; Manager, Marketing and Communications, Mr. Neville Ellis; Manager, Group Business Development, Mr. Andre Gooden; Principal, e-Campus, Mr. Kevin Powell; Deputy Business Development Manager, Michael Johnson; Administrator, e-Campus, Ms. Alafia Dally, and JSE’s local support personnel, Mr. Rawle Nelson to discuss a collaborative relationship with the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) which has seen the two organisations partnering for the hosting of the Regional Capital Markets Conference in Guyana over the past two years.
• June 5: In commemoration of the 53rd Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between China and Guyana and in honour of H.E Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Yang Yang, President Kathy Smith and Immediate Past President Kester Hutson attended a reception hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
• ●June 9: President of the GCCI, Kathy Smith, attended the 3rd graduation Ceremony of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL).
• ●June 11: The GCCI’s Trade and Investment Committee facilitated a virtual presentation by Holland House Columbia for the membership.
• June 11: Executive Member and Senior Vice President of the GCCI, Gavin Ramsoondar, attended the Launch of Orinduik Marine Services.
• ●June 12: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) facilitated a ‘Doing Business in Guyana’ presentation for the visiting Jamaican business delegation that is being spearheaded by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO). The diverse group of businesses from Jamaica is currently in Guyana on a four-day ‘Guyana Export and Ministerial Business Mission 2025’ that is geared towards deepening commercial ties between the two countries by exploring trade and investment opportunities through targeted business-to-business (B2B) engagements.
• ●June 13: As 22 entrepreneurs within the tourism and hospitality sector completed a 12-week ‘ElevateAll Programme’ conducted by the Centre for Local Business Development, they were urged by the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith to formalise their operations in pursuit of credibility and trust. Addressing the businesses during the Programme’s closing ceremony at the Centre, Mrs. Smith emphasised the importance of determination and commitment in the journey of entrepreneurship.
• ●June 13: Vice President of DR Chamber Guyana, Mr. Khishan Singh and Executive Director, Ms. Leonida Minalla Foo met with GCCI’s President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Eusi Evelyn; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Trade and Investment Consultant, Ms. Jessica Campbell. Both organisations discussed increasing bilateral trade and engagement between Guyana and the Dominican Republic; the discussion delved into potential trade missions and partnering for joint capacity-building initiatives.
• ●June 18: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kathy Smith gave remarks at the Public-Private Sector Disaster Management Workshop facilitated by Tropical Shipping at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
• ●June 19: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held the third iteration of its Business Breakfast Seminar at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. ‘Finance and Banking’ in Guyana’s evolving business landscape, with expert guidance from key stakeholders in the finance sector, including Chairperson of the Guyana Association of Bankers Incorporated, Ms. Nafeeza Gaffoor; Executive Director of New Hayven Merchant Bank, Mr. Kurt Kisto, and Chief Executive Officer of the GBTI, Mr. Shawn Gurcharran. Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh, delivered the feature address.
• ●June 21: Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry attend the THAG Award Dinner and Auction at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
• ●June 24: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in partnership with UNICEF and UNDP facilitated a Private Sector Sustainable Development Forum at the Grand Coastal Hotel.
• June 24: Aberdeen International Associates - Energies Industries Council (AIA-ECI Delegation) met with members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The engagement saw a presentation from Richard Rambarran the Chairperson of the Petroleum and Local Content Committee, on ‘Doing Business in Guyana’.
• ●June 24: Councillor and Chairperson of the Green Economy Committee Delmar Walcott attended the National Early Warning System Workshop at Duke Lodge, facilitated by the Civil Defence Commission.
• ●June 25: The International IDEA’s Programme Manager, Ambassador Marcelo Varela-Erasheva, met with the Executives of the GCCI to discuss the programme funded by the European Union to support electoral integrity as Guyana approaches the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
• ●June 25: President of the GCCI Kathy Smith and Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar were paid a courtesy visit by the Non-Resident Ambassador of Japan, His Excellency Dr Akima Umezawa.
• ●June 25: ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), in collaboration with the ACE Consulting Group and the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) held a private roundtable on how the private sector can collectively drive engagement and support the discussion around protecting domestic industries’ growth, while still encouraging foreign investment via an updated local content policy to which Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott and Gavin Ramssondar attended on behalf of the Executive Management Committee.
• ●June 26: The Petroleum and Local Content Committee of the GCCI facilitated a presentation by Dr. Martin Pertab of the Local Content Secretariat on the local content updates, development and utilisation.
• ●July 1: Councillor Eusi Evelyn attended an Inter-Agency Preparatory Meeting hosted by the Department of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for the upcoming Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Workshop.
• July 4: Mrs. Kathy Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, delivered the feature address at the graduation ceremony of Morgan’s Learning Center. She provided the students with insights into her journey, not just as a businesswoman, but a child who navigated life’s challenges with determination, amidst obstacles and failures.
• ●July 4-6: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry partnered with Matthew Gual for ECONME Business Conference and Mixer at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. Mrs. Kathy Smith, President of the GCCI and Mr. Richard Rambarran, Executive Member and Councillor, on Saturday, July 5, urged young entrepreneurs and those desirous of entering the business arena to remain committed to their goals and pursue their idea with resilience as they delivered remarks and a speech, respectively.
• July 7: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday, July 7th held its annual CARICOM Day BBQ and Mixer at Palm Court.
• ●July 9: The Ministry of Agriculture, NAREI, GLDA, GMC and the Agriculture Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with WUSC, THAG, SBB, GFSA and PTCCB facilitated a Farmer 2 Business Symposium in West Coast Berbice geared towards connecting hotels, supermarkets and other commercial consumers to farmers in order to foster valuable partnerships and opportunities for growth and innovation in the agriculture sector.
• ●July 15: Squire Patton Boggs in collaboration with ACE Consulting Group facilitated a private roundtable dinner discussion to bring together a select group of public and private sector officials, industry leaders, and legal and financial experts for an open dialogue on Guyana’s dynamic investment climate, regulatory developments, and emerging opportunities across key sectors. The aim is to foster meaningful connections, exchange insights, and explore areas for future collaboration.
• July 15: Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended OPITO Stakeholder Reception held by The British High Commission. The engagement was held under the theme ‘OPITO contribution to develop a safe, skilled and competent workforce in safety-critical industries’.
• ●July 16: Executive Members, Councillors, and Members of the GCCI participated in the Manifesto Consultations held by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the Ramada Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara. President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith took the opportunity to advocate for support for the business community in several areas. The issues she raised included grants and tax write-off programmes for private sector investment in high-yield sustainable agriculture and agro-processing; tailored tax and financial incentives for registered consortia investing in national priority sectors; five-year tax incentives for Small and Mediumsized Enterprises that become publicly listed on Guyana’s Stock Exchange; Simplification of tax systems; removal of VAT on environmental services, and support for women entrepreneurs in meeting compliance requirements and business development.
• ●July 18: President Kathy Smith attended a National Stakeholder Consultation by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) in collaboration with the Office of the Resident Coordinator, the British High Commission and the Women and Gender Equality Commission. This event was hosted under the theme “30 Years of Action, 5 Years to Deliver: Advancing Gender Equality for a Just Future” at the British High Commissioner’s residence. This event was geared towards fostering conversations on gender equality and women’s rights and providing a strategic platform to highlight and strengthen women’s roles in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and resilience-building.
• ●July 18: The Health and Wellness Sub-Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry facilitated a webinar for its members. The webinar explored how typical breakfast foods such as cereals, processed meats, pastries, and flavoured yoghurts are often loaded with hidden sugars, harmful additives, and chemical preservatives. While these items may seem
convenient or healthy, long-term consumption can contribute to chronic health issues like obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and even hormone disruption. The session was conducted by the Vice Chairperson of the committee, Kacey Bayley.
• ●July 22: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith attended a roundtable discussion hosted by the High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency Gale Miller Garnett, on the topic, “From the peaks of our Maya Mountains to the depth of our mystical Blue Hole: Harnessing Belize’s natural wealth to build climate resilience in the vulnerable Caribbean” at the World Trade Centre in Georgetown. This discussion saw a presentation from the Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management of Belize, Honourable Orlando Habet, who gave an overview of his country’s efforts at biodiversity preservation and climate resilience.
• ●July 22: Junior Vice President, Brian Edward and President Kathy Smith attended a virtual meeting with the Director of the Global Women in Management.
• July 22: President Kathy Smith attended a Networking Cocktail hosted by the Shipping Association of Guyana at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
• July 23: Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended a Cocktail Reception hosted by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on the occasion of the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit.
• ●July 24-25: The Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) hosted a workshop in collaboration with the Centre for International and Border Studies (CIBS) on Irregular Migration and Effective Integration of Migrants in Host Communities. The workshop introduced the concept of irregular migration, assessed the impact and challenges of irregular migration on host societies, informed of mechanisms for regularisation and integration of migrants, explored local solutions and recommended next steps for agencies providing migratory services. The workshop was held at Herdmanston Lodge and attended by Councillor Paul Archer, Treasurer Melisa McRae-George and Holly Persaud.
• July 25: The Chamber Executive Members met with Kiran Singh, Pres. of the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce.
• July 25: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) announced that the 2025 ‘Teenternship Programme’—which is a key component of the Chamber’s National Small Business Week (NSBW) was launched on Friday, July 25 at the GCCI’s Waterloo Street, Georgetown Secretariat. This two-week programme will see 15 Grade 10 and 11 students from the School of the Nations and Camille’s Academy benefit from practical work experience, with a keen focus on leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and management during their attachments to 14 member companies of the GCCI.
• ●July 29: The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, in partnership with the United Nations Guyana, held an ‘UNLEASH ABILITY SUMMIT’ to which Treasurer Melisa McRae George attended on behalf of the GCCI. The summit surrounded the ‘Core Principles for Engaging with Persons, including Children, with disabilities in Guyana’. These principles are intended to guide the respectful, inclusive, and rights-based interaction with Persons, including Children, with disabilities across all sectors. They reflect a shared commitment to dignity, equity, and the full participation of all individuals in society.
• ●July 29: The Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana National Road Safety Council, held its Guyana National Road Safety Stakeholder Forum 2025 at the Police Officer Mess Annexe, to which Councillor Paul Archer attended.
• ●July 29: Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar and President Kathy Smith of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba Halim Majeed.
• ●July 30: Immediate Past President Kester Hutson attended a meeting held by GNBS on GYS 169:1998 Specification for Content Warranties for Goods Review.
• August 4-8: GCCI’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee held its workshop as part of the National Small Business Week of Activities. The workshop focused on several topics: Label Design Workshop and Awareness Session, Small Business Management, Awareness, Financial Management, and Recordkeeping. The session was in collaboration with the Small Business Bureau.
• August 8: Mr. Kai Schaefer, Election Analyst for the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) met with representatives from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) included Councillor and Immediate Past President Kester Hutson, Secretary Kristia Ramalgan-Prescott, and Councillors Paul Archer, Keon Howard, and Eusi Evelyn. The discussion focused on the EU EOM’s role in observing the General and Regional elections on 1 September 2025, with both parties emphasizing the importance of a fair and transparent electoral process.
• ●August 8: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry held the President Reception to welcome new members for the April-July 2025 period. The event was attended by President Kathy S. Smith, Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar, Treasurer Melisa McRae-George, Councillors Paul Archer and Dee George, along with Councillor and Chair of the Membership and Diversity Committee Keon Howard.
• August 9: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) successfully concluded the 2025 iteration of its National Small Business Week (NSBW). This flagship event, which drew scores of businesses, entrepreneurs, and students, provided an invaluable capacity-building and networking opportunity for all participants. President Kathy Smith emphasised the key characteristics that are needed in the business environment, highlighting the need for ‘R.A.P. Resilience, Access, and Partnerships.
• August 12: Mrs Kathy Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), met with Mr Carlos Alfaro, Chargé d’Affaires of the Argentine Embassy. They discussed potential partnerships to enhance trade relations between Guyana and Argentina. Mrs Smith shared an overview of the Chamber’s role and activities, and both parties agreed to continue discussions on trade missions and other collaborative initiatives.
• August 14: Kristia Ramalagan-Prescott, Secretary, Keon Howard, Councillor, and members of the Secretariat attended a demonstration by EveryData on their credit info service platform.
• August 15: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) concluded the 2025 ‘Teenternship Programme’, which is a key component of the Chamber’s National Small Business Week (NSBW), with a certificate of participation award ceremony at GCCI’s Secretariat. Councillor and Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Orson Ferguson, and Councillor Dee George were in attendance.
• ●August 18: Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Council attended the formal presentation of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) plans for 20252030. The event outlined the party’s strategic vision and initiatives for the upcoming period, covering key areas such as economic development, infrastructure, and social policies. Council members engaged with the presentation, expressing interest in the implications for business and economic growth in Guyana during the next five years.
• ●August 19: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has engaged with The Carter Center in anticipation of the 2025 General and Regional Elections. The discussion focused on electoral preparedness, key democratic benchmarks, and the overall electoral environment, acknowledging The Carter Center’s longstanding role in electoral observation and democracy promotion in Guyana. GCCI President Kathy Smith, Immediate Past President Kester Hutson, and Councillors Paul Archer, Mary Nagasar, and Timothy Tucker were in attendance.
• ●August 20: The GECOM Orientation Session for the 2025 Regional and General Elections was attended by volunteers from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). The session was both live-streamed and held in person at the Office of the Returning Officer for District 4, Barrack Building.
• ●August 20: Kathy Smith, President of GCCI, and Treasurer Melisa McRae George attended the special presentation with Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services & Social Security, on the launch of the Day and Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre. During the meeting, a public-private partnership was established to enhance the Centre’s services and promote greater community involvement in early childhood development in Guyana.
• ●August 22: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in the WIIN Business Seminar & Support Day, hosted by the Ministry of Human Services & Social Security (MHSSS) at Cove & John, ECD. The event featured a panel discussion and presentations by several business support agencies, engaging over 400 women with business plans, some of whom already run their own businesses.
• August 22: Volunteer Members of the GCCI participated in Voting Observation: Disciplined Service Voting Day.
• August 25: Several GCCI Councillors attended the Alliance for Change Business Meet and Greet Cocktail on Monday, held at the Herdmanston Lodge. The event provided a unique opportunity to engage with the Presidential Candidate, Nigel Hughes, and Prime Ministerial Candidate, Laura George, on key topics such as oil and gas, women in business, infrastructural development, education, tourism, health, and more.
• ●August 27: Executive members Kathy Smith, Gavin Ramsoondar, Timothy Tucker, and Kester Hutson attended the grand opening of the Courtyard by Marriott. The event marked an important milestone in the hospitality sector, and the GCCI representatives engaged with key stakeholders and industry leaders during the celebration.
• ●September 1-5: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry team volunteered to participate in the General and Regional Elections 2025 as election observers for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) under the Domestic Observer Status.
• ●September 10: Senior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar, attended an engagement with stakeholders from the financial sector to discuss modernising the banking sector to address ongoing concerns citizens face and to discuss plans to ensure commercial banks keep pace with the government in implementing digital transformation. The stakeholder group is expected to present a report in six weeks outlining what the financial sector requires to realise our vision for a digital economy. The group included heads from various commercial banks, the Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr. Gobind Ganga, the Head of the Private Sector Commission, Gerald Gouveia Jr., and other stakeholders.
• ●September 11: The Executive Members of The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended the 215th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of Mexico at the National Cultural Centre hosted by the Embassy of Mexico in Guyana.
• ●September 19: The ACE Consulting Group, in collaboration with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) and the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD), hosted a private roundtable focused on strategies and opportunities to support workforce development in Guyana. The conversations prioritised identifying where skills gaps exist and how business support organisations (BSOs) can work together to develop and deploy needed training in the workforce, to which Executive Members Gavin Ramsoondar and Richard Rambarran were in attendance.
• ●September 19: Councillor Rayad Boyce attended a meeting with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to provide feedback on the new initiative platform for creatives.
• ●September 22: Councillor Delmar Walcott and Komal Ramnauth attended a meeting between Business Support Organizations (BSOs) and the Export-Import Bank of China to engage in discussions relevant to the private sector at the Private Sector Commission Boardroom.
• September 11-25: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry has 3 delegations in China participating in the Seminar on Blue Economy Development in the Caribbean, Seminar on Capacity Enhancement in Investment attraction for BRI Countries and Seminar on Finance in Business Supply Chain for BRI Countries
• October 2: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted its ‘Energy Insights Breakfast Brief’ that was geared towards ensuring that local businesses are informed of current and emerging opportunities for their advancement, including contracts and capacitybuilding initiatives being undertaken by oil industry operatives. The event also provided a platform for attendees to benefit from an overview of the government’s strategic plans for economic development and modernisation of the business landscape, while delivering updates on operations within the oil and gas industry.
• October 7: Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met on October 7 to discuss the nine interventions announced by His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to address the challenges surrounding access to foreign exchange in Guyana. During the hybrid meeting that featured in-person and virtual participation, members examined the nature of the interventions and the foreign exchange market.
• October 7-26: GCCI Delegation attended a Seminar on Enhancing Export Capacity for Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Latin American countries, under the Chinese Training Programme.
• October 9: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended an engagement hosted by the High Commission of Canada in celebration of International Day of the Girl.
• ●October 9: Members gathered for a networking session that featured informative presentations on key topics such ‘The Future of Hybrid and Remote Work’ and ‘Succession Planning and Employment Contracts for Hybrid & Remote Work’. Hosted by the GCCI’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee chaired by Mrs. Melisa McRae-George and Vice Chairperson, Ms. Holly Persaud the event provided a platform for members to meet and engage each other on key issues affecting their workforce. Attendees also benefited from insights into the Chamber’s operations, workplan and areas of advocacy.
• October 13: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with the Barranquilla Chamber of Commerce. The objective of the mission is to deepen commercial ties between Colombia (Barranquilla) and Guyana by exploring trade and investment opportunities through targeted business-to-business (B2B) engagements.
• ●October 14: President, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards; Treasurer, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Executive Member and Immediate Past President, Mr. Kester Hutson, and Executive Member and Past President, Mr. Timothy Tucker formed the GCCI delegation to the meeting that also saw the attendance of Parliamentary Secretary, Ms. Thandi McAllister and Director General of the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Mr. Alfonso De Armas. Minister Indar provided updates on plans to modernise the country’s electricity grid, as well as an overview of progress on the Gas-to-Energy Project. Discussions also delved into the operations of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
• ●October 17: President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Immediate Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Kester Hutson, paid a courtesy visit to the minister at his office. During the meeting, the development of sports tourism in Guyana was discussed, and how the private sector can collaborate with the government to propel the sector. The Chamber committed its support to this initiative, and the two parties agreed to further the discourse on this partnership.
• ●October 21: Department of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has scheduled a virtual meeting with the Guyana Missions and Consulates General in Canada and the United States to discuss the upcoming Trade and Investment Mission to North America (November 18-26, 2025). The meeting was attended by President Mrs Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar and Councillor Devon Seeram.
• October 23: The Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, represented by the Ambassador and the Chargé d’Affaires, hosted a Breakfast Meeting with key Business Support Organisations (BSOs)-namely the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), and the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA), along with the leadership of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) to which Executive Member Kester Hutson and Councillor Komal Ramnauth attended.
• ●October 28: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) commissioned its Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, a groundbreaking facility that will support the growth and development of businesses with keen attention to women-owned and womenled businesses, and farmers. Located on the middle floor of the GCCI, the facility features a training room, boardroom, and three offices that will house technical officers who will support the beneficiaries through a wide range of services, including capacity building in areas including
but not limited to business development, marketing, preparation of proposals, financial education, and compliance. The Centre was developed through a partnership with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada.
• ●October 29: The Membership and Diversity Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran Cancer Awareness Fundraising Mixer at Palm Court. The evening featured a Mini Art Exhibition by FineArt.gy, and gave members the chance to connect with fellow partners, all in the spirit of giving back. Proceeds will support the Guyana Cancer Institute and our partnership with the Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) to provide free screening vouchers for GCCI members.
• ●November 4: The Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Hon. Zulfikar Ally, partnered with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to launch the Ministry’s online SkillsConnect Application that is geared towards connecting service providers and tradesmen to clients. The launch was held in the GCCI’s boardroom and attended by members of the Chamber both in-person and online.
• ●November 6: President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Executive Member and Past President, Mr. Timothy Tucker paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Hon. Zulfikar Ally at his office, during which they discussed a range of potential collaborations for upskilling of employees and entrepreneurs, as well as increasing efficiency in operations.
• ●November 7: Minister of Housing, Hon. Collin Croal; Chief Development Planner for the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), Ms. Germene Stewart; Chairman of the NDIA, Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, and Chief Sea and River Defence Officer at the Ministry of Public Works, Mr. Kevin Samad along with representatives from related state agencies launched the consultations for the project with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) at the Chamber Secretariat. President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith posited that given the size of the Chamber’s membership, the launch of the consultation with the GCCI was appropriate.
• ●November 11: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mrs. Kathy Smith, attended the Berbice Ecosystem Summit Planning meeting at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. The engagement was hosted by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Irfaan Ali.
• November 11: Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar and Councillor Paul Archer attended the Anti-Corruption Roundtable hosted by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance.
• ●November 11: Signing Ceremony: Petroleum Exploration Licence & Petroleum Agreement for Block S4 Shallow Offshore Guyana
• ●November 12: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry had an introductory meeting with Ms. Mayra Umbarila, Executive Director of the Colombo-Guyanese Chamber of Commerce (CCCG), to discuss potential areas of collaboration and promote trade and investment ties between Colombia and Guyana.
• November 12: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and its membership aligned with Mr. Bhairav Raja, Key Expert under the EU Trade and Private Sector Development (TPSD) Facility III and the EU’s strategic priorities for investment and private sector collaboration in Guyana, particularly in key growth sectors such as: Health, Forestry, Agro-processing, Waste Management.
• ●November 13: It was a full-circle, nostalgic, and heart-warming moment on November 13, when the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, returned to the stage of her alma mater, Golden Grove Secondary School and addressed the graduating class of 2025.
• ●November 13: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is a proud participant in GuyExpo 2025, with the Chamber’s booth featuring several members across varying sectors. President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith, also participated in the opening ceremony of GuyExpo, addressing the hundreds of attendees at the Sophia Exhibition Centre. Mrs. Smith highlighted the numerous close collaborations with the Government of Guyana for the development of the private sector.
• ●November 13-14: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) unveiled the cover of its Business Guyana 2025 Magazine during the Business Development Forum at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre. President of the GCCI, Mrs Kathy S. Smith, who is being honoured by this year’s edition of the magazine for her fierce and steadfast leadership of the Chamber since being elected to office, was unaware of this homage and was in for a pleasant surprise at the unveiling.
• ●November 14-16: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry The GCCI’s members were thrilled to engage members of the public about their products and services on Day One of GuyExpo 2025. President Smith, Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Councillors Mr. Paul Archer and Mr. Delmar Walcott also took the opportunity to visit our members’ booths. Members of the public are invited to stop by the One Guyana Auditorium, Booths 3-5, and visit Dynotech Construction Chemical Inc., Nextech Inc., Oxford Medical Centre, Tropical Shipping Guyana, Newrest Guyana, B.M Enterprise Inc., and JR Construction.
• ●November 19: President Kathy Smith attended the official launch of the Guyana Wood-Based SME Accelerator Programme, jointly implemented by the Centre for Local Business Development Inc. and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), with funding from the European Union. The Accelerator aims to support wood-based SMEs through financial and entrepreneurial coaching, technical assistance, and access to catalytic financing, with the overarching goal of scaling value-added forestry manufacturing and improving access to export markets.
• ●November 19: In celebration of International Men’s Day, the Agriculture Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry facilitated a Men’s Health and Agriculture Awareness Workshop. The engagement saw 30 participants in the Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre.
• ●November 19: The Chamber, the proponent of the Local Content Act, hosted a meeting with the Local Content Secretariat and its members to discuss crucial matters related to the legislation and its implementation. Director of the Secretariat, Mr. Michael Munroe and his team attended the engagement with President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Chairperson of the Petroleum and Local Content Secretariat, Mr. Richard Rambarran, Councillors, and Members of the GCCI.
• ●November 26: Executive Member and Secretary of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, delivered remarks at the launch of the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal. This programme seeks to work with the public and private sectors in training and sensitisation on gender discrimination and sexual harassment, developing policies and programmes to empower and protect women and men, and create public-private partnerships to intensify our efforts to eliminate domestic violence in Guyana.
• ●November 26: The Security and Governance Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry facilitated a presentation by the Traffic Chief and Assistant Commissioner Mr. Mohendra Singh on enhancing road safety regulations, responsibilities and recent developments.
• December 18: President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, met with entrepreneurs and persons desirous of starting their own businesses in Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, during an outreach by Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Hon. Deodat Indar, and Parliamentary Secretary, Hon. Thandi McAllister.
• December 23: President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Chairperson of the Membership and Diversity Committee, Mr. Keon Howard; Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Administrative Manager, Mr. Rene Daniels, recently presented a cheque for $402,000 along with a $100,000 voucher from Courts Guyana to the Institute for the execution of the refurbishment. This follows the donation of $1 million towards patient support in 2025.
• January 10: Members were invited to SEBI’s Stakeholder Symposium on Post-Graduate Studies in Human Resource Management Theme: “Building the Future of HR Education in Guyana.”
• January 13: Senior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar, met with Icon LNG, where a brief presentation was done on Empowering Georgetown’s Business Community.
• January 17: GCCI Executives Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott and Timothy Tucker engaged with leading representatives of the private sector at the Minister of Finance to raise and discuss issues of interest as the government intensifies preparations for Budget 2026.
• January 20: Councillor Paul Archer, representatives from government agencies, civil society, and road safety partners convened for a Stakeholder Review Workshop under the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF), implemented through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), to provide feedback on the Socially Inclusive and Gender Responsive Road Safety Awareness Communication Strategy for Guyana. Linden to Mabura Hill Upgrade Project Stakeholder Workshops
• January 21: The French Ambassador Olivier Plançon and his delegation met with President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Past President and Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker, at the GCCI Secretariat with discussions on strengthening relations and exploring possibilities for bilateral trade
• January 21: Past President Kester Hutson and Construction and HSSE Committee Member Kevon Hardring attend a Public Consultation on Draft: Caricom Regional Energy Efficiency Building held by The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).
• January 22: GCCI held a Presentation on the Single Window Clearance System with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Customs House Brokers and Port Operators Association (CHPA), followed by a presentation by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce (MINTIC) for members.
• January 23: Mrs. Kathy Smith, the President of the GCCI, delivered remarks at the launch of the Georgetown Shade House Project.
• January 23: GCCI was invited to contribute to a Stakeholder Consultation on Guyana’s Draft Solid Waste Management Bill and Regulation. Past President and Councillor Timothy Tucker represented the Chamber.
• January 26: President Kathy Smith and Past President Komal Ramnauth met with Mr Muaz Yusuf of the Guyana Embassy in Kuwait to discuss investment opportunities in Guyana.
• January 27: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), following the concerns raised on continuous challenges being experienced by businesses as it relates to the shipping industry, met with the Shipping Association of Guyana at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. The meeting was convened to address matters such as unilateral increases in fees, delayed clearance, and extended peak period charges that were raised by members of the GCCI, as well as the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association (GCHBCA).
• January 28: Members of the GCCI were invited to the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Public Consultation on the draft national standard “Specification for labelling of commodities Part 10: Labelling of equipment, items and parts containing refrigerants.”
• January 28: President Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President Gavin Ramsoondar and Past President Timothy Tucker met with Mr. Jacques Robin García, Regional Financial Adviser of the French Treasury and the French Ambassador, Olivier Plançon where discussions on strengthening relations and exploring possibilities for bilateral trade were discussed.
• January 28: President Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President and Vice-Chairman of the Petroleum and Local Content Committee, Chris Chapwanya, facilitated a Budget in Review discussion with members as a part of the first in the GCCI’s Budget in Review series.
• January 29: President Kathy Smith and Secretary Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott did a handover of a plaque of appreciation to British High Commissioner, H.E. Jane Miller, OBE.
• January 30: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), through the Petroleum and Local Content Committee, hosted a Petroleum Sector Update on January 30 in the GCCI Boardroom, where Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat, and the Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Mr. Michael Munroe, provided crucial information on plans for the energy sector. The session was also attended by Senior Petroleum Coordinator for the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Bobby Gossai Jr.
• January 30: The GCCI held the Budget in Review Part II series for members with an overview of investments into the development of agriculture in 2026. This webinar promises Junior Vice President Brian Edwards, presented the review.
• February 3: The Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee hosted an information session in collaboration with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). Present were Treasurer and Chairman Melisa McRae-George, and Vice Chairperson Holly Persaud.
• February 5-6: President Smith attended the Future Works and Capacitation Conclave workshop held by the University of Guyana. The workshop brought together 25 key national, regional, and international thinkers, institutional and industry leaders for insightful presentations, discussions and focused introspection, experimental teaching and analysis
• February 7: President Kathy Smith, Secretary Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Councillor Paul Archer attended the Annual Dinner: The Association of Chinese Enterprises in Guyana
• February 9-13: GCCI President Kathy Smith attended a forum on Public-Private Partnerships on Social and Labour Integration Programs for Justice-Involved Individuals for Drug-Related Offences in Italy.
• February 9: Junior Vice President Brian Edwards represented the Chamber on a panel discussion at the Fisheries Cooperative workshop titled: Strengthening Guyana’s Agribusiness: From Fisheries Cooperatives to Seafood Markets.
• February 10: Construction and HSSE Committee Member Kevon Harding represented the Chamber at Urban Framework Development - Workshop Organised by the Office of the President. This workshop focused primarily on strengthening the national urban framework, with emphasis on policy alignment, governance, and implementation strategies.
• February 11: Vice Chairperson of the Health and Wellness Sub-Committee, Kacey Bailey, represented the Chamber at the Health Street - Workshop organised by the Office of the President.
• February 12: Councillor Delmar Walcott, participated in the Village of Harmony Initiative, supported by the Office of the President in partnership with the Moraikobai Village Council, The King’s Foundation, and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, is advancing a village-led development model that integrates livelihoods, cultural continuity, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity.
• February 17: Past President Kester Hutson attended a meeting with the Guyana Securities Council to discuss the current status of the stock exchange and to explore the possibility of establishing a Junior Stock Market.
• February 17-20: On February 17, President Kathy Smith attended the opening of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, representing the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) throughout the week’s activities.
During the conference, President Smith participated as a featured speaker and also represented the Chamber at SBM Offshore’s “Let’s Talk Local Content” Forum. In her remarks, she emphasised the importance of capacity building and operational readiness, urging local businesses to strategically position themselves to capitalise on the expanding opportunities within Guyana’s oil and gas sector. She encouraged companies to fully utilise the resources and support systems available to strengthen competitiveness and long-term sustainability. The week’s engagements concluded with President Smith delivering remarks at the unveiling of the Guyana Youth Entrepreneurship Chamber (GYEC) during the Energy Conference Youth Forum. The initiative received strong endorsements from both government and private sector stakeholders.
President Smith also participated in a media interview with Reuters correspondent Sheila Dang.
• February 19: President Kathy had an introductory engagement with Mr. Jesus Bronchalo, Chief Executive Officer of Fulcrum LNG. The discussion focused on Fulcrum LNG’s strategic interests in Guyana’s energy sector, the company’s role in the LNG landscape, and potential areas for collaboration with the private sector. Mr. Bronchalo met with members of the chamber to facilitate a presentation on LNG’s areas of collaboration.
• February 20: Mrs. Kathy Smith met with the Ministry of Human Services & Social Security to discuss the Care Economy Project.
• February 23: Mrs. Kathy Smith attended the Official Dinner for the Board of Directors of ExxonMobil.
• February 24: GCCI Executives met with FCDO Beccy Davies, Economics Adviser, Team Leader – Inclusive Economic Growth, Caribbean-based in Barbados. She is the lead for the Technical Expertise to Support the Guyana Revenue Authority programme, as well as the FCDO’s engagement with CARTAC in Guyana.
• February 25: The Ministry of Agriculture officially launched its Farmers Connect App at the National Cultural Centre. This initiative forms part of the Government’s broader digital transformation agenda and is designed to modernise the way the Ministry engages with farmers and stakeholders across Guyana. Junior Vice President, Brian Edwards, delivered brief remarks to highlight the importance of public–private partnerships, technology adoption, and business linkages in strengthening Guyana’s agricultural value chains.
City Chamber disagrees with PSC over `voluntary unemployment’ -Stabroek News, March 22, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has distanced itself from comments made by the umbrella Private Sector Commission (PSC), which stated that “unemployment in Guyana is largely voluntary.” Speaking at a press conference yesterday, newly elected President of the GCCI, Kathy Smith, said that while there is unemployment across the country, many job seekers lack the necessary skill set and are unable to fit into many of the available positions.
City chamber elects first woman president - Stabroek News, Kaieteur News, Guyana Times, March 22, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has elected Kathy Smith as its first-ever woman president in the organization’s 136-year history. Smith, the owner of Dynotech Construction Chemicals, was elected alongside 21 new council members last week.
GCCI elects first woman president in its 136 years of existence: Guyana Chronicle - March 22, 2025
In a move being hailed as historic, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has elected its first female president, Kathy Smith. This was disclosed by the Chamber at a press conference, which was held at the GCCI’s boardroom following its election on Friday. At the GCCI’s 135th annual general meeting on Wednesday, the membership of the Chamber elected a 21-member council.
Access to foreign currency has improved slightly for local businesses – new Chamber President - Stabroek News, March 28, 2025
Access to foreign currency has improved slightly—at least for members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), according to newly sworn-in President Kathy Smith. Speaking last Friday, she acknowledged that while challenges remain, the situation appears to be getting better.
GCCI engages local businesses in Water Street walkabout - Guyana Times, March 29, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Council, under the leadership of the recently elected President, Kathy Smith, embarked on a walkabout on Thursday as part of their ongoing pledge to support the local business community.
US$35m injected into banking system on Thursday – Jagdeo - Stabroek News, March 29, 2025
The government on Thurs-day injected US$35 million into the banking system to address a foreign currency shortage that had been highlighted by some businesses. Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thurs-day, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo explained that while careful consideration was given to the timing and flow of currency before the intervention, the injection was necessary. Meanwhile, access to foreign currency has slightly improved, at least for members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), according to newly sworn-in President Kathy Smith. Speaking two Fridays ago, she acknowledged that while challenges remain, the situation appears to be getting better.
Over 200 women attend inaugural Project HER’s women in project management Workshop - Guyana Chronicle, May 31, 2025
Scores of women participated in the first ever Project HER Guyana, women in project management workshop, hosted by Green State Oil and Gas Services Inc., on Saturday, at the Pegasus Corporate Centre, Georgetown. The workshop was hosted under the theme, ‘Recognising and Inspiring Her in the field of Project Management’, and it sought to explore the critical role women play in leading successful projects…Notably, the event saw five female awardees being honoured for their remarkable contributions to the profession. The awardees were identified as Beverly Braithwaite-Chan, Beverley Tapp, Karen Cumberbatch, Nadine D’Andrade and the first Female President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kathy Smith.
City chamber raises flouting of local content laws with ministers - Stabroek News, April 4, 2025
In a series of meetings it recently held with government ministers, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has raised concerns about the flouting of local content laws. According to a release from the GCCI, this was one of the issues raised in a meeting with Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira. The Chamber said that it raised concerns with her surrounding the flouting of Local Content laws via loopholes by foreign companies operating in Guyana’s oil and gas industry.
GCCI hosts successful “Farmer-toBusiness Symposium” - Guyana Times, April 11, 2025
…as farmers, businesses interact to develop supply chain connections
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on April 2 held a “Farmer-to-Business Symposium” at the Splashmin’s Conference Room that saw over 90 participants –including farmers, and representatives of restaurants, supermarkets, and other businesses within the agriculture supply chain –benefiting from direct engagement between producers and buyers.
Finance Minister meets new GGCI President and team - Stabroek News, Guyana Chronicle, April 9, 2025
The following is the full statement that was issued by the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday:
“A number of pertinent matters in relation to the business community were today (Tuesday) discussed when Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service Dr. Ashni Singh met with newly elected President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Mrs. Kathy Smith and a team from the Chamber.
During the meeting Dr. Singh alluded to the long history the government has had working with the GCCI and other business support organizations. He congratulated the new President on her appointment, recognizing her advocacy in the past while indicating that Mrs. Smith’s work thus far and perspectives on various issues have been noted and appreciated.
GCCI, Agriculture Ministry explore new investment opportunities in Agriculture Sector - Guyana Chronicle, April 10, 2025
MEMBERS of the Executive Management Committee and Council of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), led by newly elected President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, recently paid a courtesy call on Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture, at his Regent Street office.
The meeting provided an opportunity for dialogue on the role of the private sector in supporting Guyana’s growing agriculture industry and exploring avenues for stronger collaboration between the government and private enterprises.
Packaging facilities nationwide to be upgraded - Stabroek News, April 11, 2025
Several packaging and agro-processing facilities across Guyana are currently undergoing upgrading and modernising in an effort to empower farmers and agro-processors to produce more processed and value-added commodities. This disclosure was made by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, during a meeting with a team comprising the Executive Management Committee and Council of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and headed by its recently elected president, Kathy Smith, a Ministry of Agriculture release stated on Wednesday.
GCCI: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has noted with deep concern the incidents that occurred within the last 24 hours - Guyana Chronicle, Stabroek News, April 30, 2025
The Chamber is calling on citizens to allow peace and stability to prevail. Criminal elements have hijacked and preyed upon frustrations over recent incidents, and the acts of violence, looting and destruction witnessed on Monday and the wee hours of Tuesday morning only serve to create unrest and create divides among our people.
‘Business as usual’: No disruption in Guyana’s operations despite Venezuela controversy – GCCI Pres. - Guyana Chronicle, May 12, 2025
(OILNOW) KATHY Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), has made it clear that there has been no break in business operations in Guyana due to Venezuela’s increasingly aggressive posture regarding its claim to Guyana’s territory. Speaking on a panel at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) last week, Smith said, “From the private sector standpoint, there has not been a break in our operations in Guyana.” She said while international headlines may paint a worrying picture, “information can be distorted”.
GCCI welcomes announcement of election date - Guyana Chronicle, May 28, 2025 –says will field observer team; calls for transparent, peaceful process
THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has welcomed the recent announcement by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, made after consultation with the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), setting the date for the 2025 General and Regional Elections on September 1, 2025. The chamber, in a statement, urged all political parties to strictly adhere to the Elections Code of Conduct, emphasising the importance of respect for the rule of law and the fundamental principles of democracy throughout the electoral process.
European health, pharma companies set for investment mission - Stabroek News, May 29, 2025
Thirteen European Union (EU) pharmaceutical and health companies are set for a mission here from June 2-4 to look for investment opportunities. The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Guyana is collaborating with the European Chamber of Commerce (Guyana) and the Ministry of Health on the forum which will be held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. Other local partners include the Guyana Office for Investment, the Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association. The mission comes under the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative, aimed at enhancing collaboration between European health and pharmaceutical companies and Guyanese stakeholders.
Labour Ministry, GCCI deepen partnership to boost compliance, workforce readiness - Guyana Chronicle, May 29, 2025
The Ministry of Labour and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) reaffirmed their shared commitment to workforce development and private sector support during a high-level engagement held Wednesday at the GCCI headquarters. The forum, led by Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, and GCCI President Ms. Kathy Smith, brought together senior government officials and private sector representatives.
EU-led health, pharmaceutical investment mission to boost Guyana’s healthcare sector - Guyana Chronicle, May 29, 2025
In a strategic push to support the transformation of Guyana’s healthcare landscape, the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Guyana, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the European Chamber of Commerce in Guyana, will host a Health and Pharmaceutical Investment Mission from June 2 to 4, 2025, under the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative. The three-day event, set to take place at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, aims to foster meaningful collaborations between European health and pharmaceutical companies and Guyanese stakeholders…The mission, backed by GOINVEST, the Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association (GMSA), will feature sector-focused seminars, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, and site visits to medical and pharmaceutical facilities across the country.
Labour Minister urges city chamber to make more use of job bank, apprenticeship programme - Stabroek News, May 30, 2025
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton has called on the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to make greater use of the ministry’s apprenticeship programme and job bank. The Minister was speaking to members of the GCCI, at an event focused on strengthening collaboration between government and the private sector to promote legal compliance, workforce development, and inclusive economic growth.
GCCI, FAO discuss joint initiatives to strengthen agriculture sector - Guyana Chronicle, July 2, 2025
OVER the last several years, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), through its Agriculture Committee, has been supporting the development of farmers across the country via the Agriculture Outreach programme. The agriculture sector is also one of the key sectors to be targeted by programmes that will be executed by the Chamber’s Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, and recently, the GCCI met with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Representative in Guyana, Dr. Gillian Smith to discuss potential collaborations between the two organisations to execute these programmes.
Guyana hosts EU-led pharmaceutical investment forum to boost local healthcare - Guyana Chronicle, June 3, 2025
AS part of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to enhance its healthcare system, the European Union (EU) on Monday launched a high-level Health and Pharmaceutical Investment Mission at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. The threeday event, which runs until Wednesday, aims to connect EU pharmaceutical and healthcare companies with local partners to explore investment and collaboration opportunities. Funded by the EU, it partners with Guyana’s private sector; the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); the Guyana Office for Investment; the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association and the Ministry of Health.
UG’s 2025 ‘Money Week’ Launch: GCCI President calls for financial literacy culture - Guyana Chronicle, June 5, 2025
Financial literacy must become a cultural norm if Guyana is to empower its youth, entrepreneurs, and wider society, declared President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, during the launch of the University of Guyana’s 2025 ‘Money Week’ at the Turkeyen Campus on Monday. Addressing a diverse audience of students, faculty, and business leaders, Mrs. Smith, a seasoned entrepreneur in the construction sector, underscored the critical role of money not just as a medium of exchange, but as a powerful tool for transformation.
Private Sector unites for June 8 National CleanUp Exercise - Guyana Chronicle, June 5, 2025
In a powerful show of unity and civic responsibility, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) are calling on businesses and citizens across Guyana to actively participate in the 10th National Clean-Up Exercise scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Tropical Shipping hosts disaster management workshop - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, June 19, 2025
Tropical Shipping, on Wednesday, hosted a pivotal Disaster Management Workshop at the Guyana Marriott Hotel under the theme “Beyond the Storm: Strengthening Private-Public Partnership for Resiliency.” The event brought together key stakeholders from government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to address the pressing need for disaster preparedness and cyber resilience in Guyana and the wider Caribbean….Meanwhile, Kathy Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and ViceChair of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), underscored the importance of collaboration. She reflected on the devastating 2005 flood, which significantly affected Guyana’s coastline and crippled infrastructure, businesses, and the agriculture sector.
GCCI, FAO discuss joint initiatives to strengthen agriculture sector - Guyana Chronicle, July 2, 2025
Over the last several years, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), through its Agriculture Committee, has been supporting the development of farmers across the country via the Agriculture Outreach programme. The agriculture sector is also one of the key sectors to be targeted by programmes that will be executed by the Chamber’s Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, and recently, the GCCI met with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Representative in Guyana, Dr. Gillian Smith to discuss potential collaborations between the two organisations to execute these programmes.
City chamber urges investment incentives -Stabroek News July 18, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) says that it has over the last several months sought engagements with the political parties contesting in the 2025 General and Regional Elections to discuss their strategies for economic development and private sector advancement. On July 16, Executive Members, Councillors, and Members of the GCCI participated in the Manifesto Consultations held by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the Ramada Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara, a release from GCCI said.
GCCI launches ‘Teenternship’ to kick off Small Business Week - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, July 27, 2025
Fifteen students from the School of the Nations and Camille’s Academy will now gain first-hand work experience through the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) 2025 ‘Teenternship’ Programme, officially launched on Friday last at the GCCI Secretariat on Waterloo Street, Georgetown. In a recent press release on Saturday, the GCCI noted that the twoweek internship, which forms part of this year’s National Small Business Week (NSBW), will give Grade 10 and 11 students an opportunity to build real-world skills while being attached to 14 member companies of the Chamber. The programme focuses on leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and management, key areas needed for the modern business world.
condemns WIN’s call for boycott of local businesses
- Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, August 1, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly rejects and condemns calls from the ‘We Invest in Nationhood’ (WIN) party for the boycotting of several local businesses, following the closure of bank accounts of members of that party by the private sector businesses in the financial industry.
Private sector condemns US-sanctioned Mohamed’s call to boycott legitimate Guyanese businessesKaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, August 2, 2025
The following is the full text of a statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry: “The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly rejects and condemns calls from the ‘We Invest in Nationhood’ (WIN) party for the boycotting of several local businesses, following the closure of bank accounts of members of that party by the private sector businesses in the financial industry.
National Small Business Week Expo ready for vendor registration
- Stabroek News, August 3, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is calling on all micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the country to register now for a limited number of vendor booths at its National Small Business Week (NSBW) Expo, which will be held on Friday, August 9, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.
City chamber holds National Small Business Week -Stabroek News, August 15, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Saturday, August 9, concluded the 2025 running of its National Small Business Week (NSBW). This flagship event, which it said saw the participation of scores of businesses, entrepreneurs and students provided capacity-building and a networking opportunity for all participants.
Private sector champions growth at Building Expo 2025 opening - Guyana Chronicle, August 15, 2025
Guyana’s blossoming private sector is making its presence felt and growth known at the International Building Expo 2025, which was officially declared open on Thursday evening. Being held under the theme “Road to Success, 2030 and Beyond,” business leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders can together at the opening ceremony for the four-day event at the National Stadium, Providence. During their remarks, both the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Kathy Smith and Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Capt. Gerald Gouveia Jr, highlighted the record-breaking infrastructure investments Guyana has seen in recent times and its unprecedented impact on rising business capacity and transforming the nation’s economic landscape.
Ministry, city chamber moving for child care centres at companies - Kaieteur News, Stabroek News, Guyana Times, August 22, 2025
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS) entered into a public-private partnership with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Wednesday, August 20, to place Day, Night, and Early Childhood Centres on-site at companies and business places, a MoHSSS release stated.
GCCI rejects attempts to incite instability during elections - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, August 27, 2025
THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has strongly rejected attempts by political parties to cast the country into uncertainty, and contrived efforts to destabilise the electoral process. The Chamber, in a statement on Tuesday, said it notes the statements emanating from contesting parties claiming that they have “won” in specific regions, even as votes from the Joint Services, the very first segment of the voting populace, are yet to be tabulated.
GCCI urges peace, stability during elections amid concerns of speculative violence - Stabroek News, Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, August 31, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has issued a strong appeal for peace and stability as Guyana prepares for the General and Regional Elections (GRE) 2025, warning against unfounded claims and actions that could incite unrest. In a statement on Saturday, the Chamber said it noted with “strong consternation” the insinuations of intended violence linked to speculation of interference in the electoral process. GCCI stressed that such narratives threaten to destabilise the society, and undermine Guyana’s progress at a time when the country is experiencing rapid development.
GCCI praises ‘peaceful, free and transparent’ elections - Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, September 3, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) commends Guyana’s electorate on a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent polling day on September 1, 2025, that displayed maturity and stability during this crucial democratic process. The Chamber also applauds the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for the execution of an efficient procedure that was without disruptions to the voting process. However, the GCCI calls on GECOM to implement systems that allow people living with disabilities to comfortably access polling stations and exercise their constitutional franchise.
GCCI urges GECOM to improve access for persons with disabilitiesGuyana Times, September 4, 2025
While the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has praised the smooth and peaceful conduct of Guyana’s September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections, the private sector body has also called on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to take immediate steps to ensure persons with disabilities (PWDs) have easier and more dignified access to polling stations.
Amaya Milk CEO urges businesses to champion inclusive workplaces - Guyana Chronicle, September 10, 2025
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Amaya Milk Company, Omkaar Sharma, has called on businesses across Guyana to create inclusive workplaces free from discrimination, stressing that inclusivity is not charity but a foundation for economic growth and national unity. Speaking at the National Small Business Week Symposium, hosted by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Sharma endorsed the Guyana Together campaign while urging business leaders to “harness the potential of all Guyanese.”
GCCI, THAG sign MoU to boost tourism, environmental initiatives in Guyana - Stabroek News, Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, September 11, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) have formalised a partnership aimed at strengthening collaboration in the tourism sector and promoting environmental and beautification initiatives across the country. On August 28, representatives from both organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a ceremony held at Herdmanston Lodge. The MoU, signed by GCCI President, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith and THAG President, Mr. Mitra Ramkumar, builds on discussions that began during the tenures of former THAG President, Mrs. Dee George and former GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson.
GCCI welcomes Government’s push for digitalization, city enhancement - Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, September 20, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has applauded the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to modernise services and enhance the capital city, describing the initiatives as key drivers of efficiency, transparency, and investment. In a statement, the Chamber welcomed the rollout of electronic identification cards (e-ID) and the launch of an online passport application system, both of which are expected to significantly improve accessibility and reduce processing times for citizens.
The announcement by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) of its soonto-be-commissioned Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre represents a critical step in strengthening Guyana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In a nation undergoing rapid economic transformation, such initiatives ensure that growth is not limited to large-scale industries but extends to the micro and small enterprises that form the backbone of the domestic economy. The initiative, unveiled by GCCI President Kathy Smith during the launch of GuyExpo 2025, arrives at a time when the discourse on diversification has become increasingly urgent.
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kathy Smith, during Monday’s launch of GuyExpo 2025 encouraged Guyanese entrepreneurs to ACE (Attract Connect Expand) at highly anticipated annual event. Smith said that she is happy that GuyExpo has returned this year to support the work and contributions of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The results are seen in agriculture, aquaculture, small business development and the many capacity building opportunities being created for new and existing businesses.
‘Development is measured by dignity of lives uplifted’ - Kaieteur News, Guyana Times, Guyana Chronicle, October 4, 2025
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has underscored that the barrels of oils pumped is not the end in itself but a catalyst for true development, which sees opportunity, equity and dignity for all citizens. President Ali made these remarks during the inaugural Georgetown Chamber of Commerce (GCCI) Energy Insights Breakfast, which was held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre on Thursday. The President said that if oil is the fuel, then sustainable development must be the destination. He underscored the important role the business community has to play, along with the government, in ensuring that sustainable development and social equity are prioritised.
President Ali announces plans for Guyana to market its own crude - Kaieteur News, October 03, 2025
Guyana will be working to develop its capability and capacity in crude oil trading, President Irfaan Ali told a roomful of private sector players on Thursday at the inaugural energy breakfast hosted by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). “I will be working with the local private sector and international partners to ensure that we develop our capability and capacity in crude oil trading. We must be able to trade our crude oil from Guyana, with the infrastructure, with the human capital, and with the market skills and that is going to create enormous opportunities for us,” President Ali said.
Every Guyanese should have a bank account – Pres. Ali - Kaieteur News, October 5, 2025
The government will implement measures to encourage more citizens to open bank accounts, President Irfaan Ali announced on Thursday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre. The president made the announcement during an address to private sector leaders, members of the diplomatic corps and other dignitaries at the Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Energy Insights Breakfast.
GCCI commends govt’s initiatives for economic advancement through business development - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, October 8, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has recognised the Government of Guyana’s strategic and decisive actions to bolster economic advancement through business development by creating accessible financing and banking options, and modernising the stock exchange. According to a press release from GCCI, the Chamber eagerly anticipates the positive impacts that the implementation of these decisions will have on the business community, particularly Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME).
GCCI, U.S. Embassy explore new avenues for private sector collaboration - Guyana Chronicle, October 9, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) recently hosted the newly appointed Senior Commercial Officer of the U.S. Embassy, Mr. Bruce J. Ellsworth, for a highlevel meeting focused on strengthening partnerships and identifying new opportunities for collaboration between the local private sector and U.S. entities. Mr. Ellsworth, who was accompanied by Commercial Specialist, Ms. Amanda Edmondson, and Commercial Assistant, Ms. Tocoma Alexis, met with GCCI President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, Junior Vice President, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Executive Member and Immediate Past President, Mr. Kester Hutson, at the Chamber’s headquarters on September 30.
City chamber says action needed to address port delays in Trinidad - Kaieteur News, Guyana Times, Stabroek News October 12, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) yesterday expressed deep concern over the continued recurrences of shipping delays from Trinidad as a result of port congestion. According to a release from the Chamber, this is an issue which has over the years resulted in impediments to regional trade and hindrances to local supply chains.
GCCI calls for vigilance, justice following fatal Georgetown Gas Station explosion - Stabroek News, Guyana Chronicle, October 28, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has condemned Sunday night’s deadly explosion at the Mobil Gas Station on Regent and King Streets, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne and left several others injured. In a statement issued on Monday, the Chamber said it has taken note of reports indicating that the explosion was triggered by human intervention, and it commended the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for its swift action in identifying a suspect in connection with the tragedy.
‘This centre belongs to you’ - Guyana Chronicle, October 29, 2025
At Tuesday’s launch of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre at 156 Waterloo Street, Georgetown, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha underscored the vital role of women in shaping Guyana’s agricultural and business growth. He said the initiative represents a powerful step towards empowering women and micro-entrepreneurs nationwide. “This project is a visionary initiative by the GCCI. This stands as a beacon of opportunity for empowerment and innovation.” He noted that the government and the private sector, including the GCCI, “have been partnering in executing a number of programmes.”
GCCI President calls for strengthened regional Private-Sector collaboration at Trinidad Energy Chamber event - Guyana Time, November 2, 2025 – says non-tariff barriers, port congestion-related shipping delays for Guyanese consumers must be addressed
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kathy Smith, addressed the Trinidad Energy Chamber’s Post-AGM Networking Session, where she encouraged closer regional cooperation within the Private Sector. Smith delivered the keynote address at the event, held at the Hilton Hotel in Port of Spain, Trinidad, and also participated in a panel discussion alongside Dr Thackwray “Dax” Driver, President and CEO of the Energy Chamber of T&T; Mala Baliraj, Chairperson of the Energy Chamber of T&T; Gary Frost, Managing Director of Rig Bound; Sasha Addo, Managing Director of L&S Surveying Services; and Richard Thompson, Director of New Business Development at IRP Fire & Safety Ltd.
GCCI launches Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre to empower local businesses, farmers - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, Kaieteur News, October 30, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has officially commissioned its Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, a pioneering facility aimed at empowering small business owners, particularly womenled enterprises and farmers, through training, mentorship, and capacity-building initiatives. The Centre, located on the middle floor of the GCCI’s headquarters at Waterloo Street, was commissioned on Tuesday and represents a significant step in promoting inclusive economic growth and entrepreneurship in Guyana.
Georgetown Chamber launches Micro and Women Entrepreneurs Learning Centre -Stabroek News, November 2, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) commissioned its Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre on Tuesday, describing it as a groundbreaking facility that will support the growth and development of businesses with keen attention to womenowned and women-led businesses, and farmers.
Government, GCCI launch SkillsConnect App to strengthen labour market through digital innovation - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, November 6, 2025
In a move to modernise Guyana’s labour market and promote digital innovation, the Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, in collaboration with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Wednesday launched the SkillsConnect Application — a new digital platform designed to connect job seekers with employers across the country.
Gov’t advances Georgetown drainage improvement project with key stakeholder engagements - Guyana Chronicle, November 9, 2025
As part of ongoing efforts to boost Georgetown’s resilience against flooding and modernise urban infrastructure, the multi-agency National Drainage Task Force on Friday held a series of stakeholder engagements focused on the Georgetown Drainage Improvement Project and Action Plan. The meetings, led by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal, and Head of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, brought together representatives from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG).
Gov’t’s Skills Connect app launched - Guyana Chronicle, November 7, 2025
The government has launched Skills Connect, an online portal where persons can connect using a targeted application. Minister of Public Service, Government and Efficiency Im-plementation (MPSGEI) Zulfikar Ally told the Stabroek Business, Skills Connect is a technological application to boost small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) across the country by matching those entrepreneurs to potential consumers of their product. The app was launched on Tuesday by the government in partnership with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
GCCI to equip MSMEs for expansion at 2025 Business Development Forum - Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, November 12, 2025
As Guyana continues to experience rapid economic expansion, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is strengthening its push to position micro, small, and mediumsized enterprises (MSMEs) to fully capitalise on the nation’s evolving opportunities.
The chamber will host its flagship Business Development Forum (BDF) from November 13–14, 2025, at the Pegasus Suites & Corporate Centre, under the theme, “Empowering Businesses for a Resilient Future.” The two-day event will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and development partners for discussions focused on finance, sustainability, diversification, local market penetration, and export readiness.
‘Stop watching from the sidelines’ – GCCI President - Kaieteur News, November 14, 2025 …urges Guyanese businesses to step up as economy booms
With Guyana on the brink of unprecedented economic expansion, local businesses are being urged to stop acting as bystanders in their own country’s development and instead seize the opportunities unfolding around them. This was the central message delivered on Thursday at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI’s) fifth Business Development Forum, where more than 100 small, medium, and micro enterprises gathered at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre for presentations on scaling up, export readiness, and tapping local markets.
Acquire compliances, structural requirements to access incentives, opportunities to train, grow - Guyana Chronicle, November 17, 2025
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kathy Smith, is urging local businesses to take advantage of what she has described as an unprecedented period of growth, emphasising that too many enterprises are missing out on opportunities because they fail to meet basic compliance and structural requirements. Smith, speaking at the opening of GuyExpo 2025 last Thursday, cautioned that the era of complaining about a lack of opportunity has long passed.
City Chamber forum highlights pathways for resilient business growth - Stabroek News, November 14, 2025
Business growth in uncertain times requires discipline, preparedness, and strategic focus. That was the message from keynote speaker Komal Samaroo as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) opened its fifth Business Development Forum yesterday.
‘Adapt or be outpaced’ – GCCI tells local businesses amid rising Chinese competition - Kaieteur News, November 17, 2025
Amid growing anxiety from small and micro businesses that the surge of Chinese stores and workers is threatening their livelihoods, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President, Kathy Smith, is urging local entrepreneurs to adapt rather than despair.
In an interview with Kaieteur News, the President of the largest private sector body in the country said she is aware of the concerns being raised by small shop owners in particular. She said, “I think maybe it’s a valid concern on their part.”
Faster Local Content Certificate approvals from January 2026 - Guyana Chronicle, November 26, 2025
Businesses seeking Local Content Certificates will benefit from significantly faster and more predictable approval timelines beginning January 2026, as the Ministry of Natural Resources rolls out a structured processing system aimed at strengthening service delivery and improving the ease of doing business in Guyana. The new framework implemented through the Local Content Secretariat sets clear turnaround periods for all classes of applicants…The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in a statement issued on Tuesday, said it “commends the Local Content Secretariat on the move to improve its processing time for local content certificates.” The chamber noted that the initiative “focuses on efficiency, provides guided timelines and allows businesses to access this crucial document on a timely basis.”
Several UK companies here as part of fifth trade mission to Guyana - Guyana Chronicle, November 26, 2025
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on behalf of President Irfaan Ali welcomed the fifth United Kingdom (UK) Trade delegation to Guyana as well as newly appointed Member of Parliament in the UK and UK Trade Envoy to the Commonwealth Caribbean, Paulette Hamilton, to Guyana during a welcoming ceremony at the Marriott Hotel, on Tuesday. The parliamentarian is in Guyana for the first time, and the trade mission is spearheaded by the British High Commission in collaboration with the Caribbean Council, the British Chamber of Commerce (Britcham) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).
National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal launched- Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, November 27, 2025
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security on Wednesday launched the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal, creating equal opportunities and empowering women in the local workforce. The launch also featured the signing of the Guyana Women and Gender Equality and Empowerment Principles. This ministry, along with the Ministries of the Public Service; Government Efficiency and Implementation; Labour and Manpower Planning; the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry; the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Private Sector Commission, joined to launch this significant and momentous journey to empowerment at the Roraima Duke Lodge, Kingston.
Proposals being assessed for updates to local content legislation
– Natural Resources Minister
- Guyana Chronicle, December 8, 2025
Several submissions by stakeholders in the oil and gas industry have made several submissions in relation to updating the country’s local content legislation, which is currently being compiled. This was according to Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, who made this known during a recent event where he noted that possible revisions aim to strengthen the law and widen opportunities for Guyanese businesses within the oil and gas sector. Further, he stated that local content has become a success story for Guyana and one that “we can boast about in comparison to many other oilproducing countries around the world.” He noted that the legislation has enabled hundreds of local businesses to partake in the oil and gas sector. The minister acknowledged growing calls from the private sector, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and other stakeholders for a revision of the legislation, particularly Schedule One, which outlines the services reserved for Guyanese companies.
Guyana an ‘exceptional bright spark’ in a challenging global space
- Guyana Chronicle, December 12, 2025
Seen as a beacon of development in the Caribbean region, Guyana’s economic ascent has positioned the country as an “exceptional bright spark” amid global uncertainties, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has said. Addressing the 136th Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) annual awards and gala virtually on Thursday evening, the regional leader noted that Guyana’s expansive growth is not only the strength of its own economy, but fundamentally the strength of the entire Caribbean region, representing the core of regional integration and the Caribbean community (CARICOM) family.
Guyana building professional, innovative security apparatus to foster secure business, solid social environment
- Guyana Chronicle, December 13, 2025
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond outlined a transformative approach to national security, emphasising the critical role of a modern, technologically advanced police force in safeguarding Guyana’s burgeoning economy. Speaking candidly at the 136th Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) annual awards and gala on Thursday evening, Minister Walrond articulated the government’s vision of creating “a modern police force that acts with professionalism, embraces innovation and supports the business environment through timely, reliable law enforcement services”.
Gov’t remains accommodating, supportive of private sector - Guyana Chronicle, December 13, 2025
Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues has reaffirmed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is “open, accommodating and fully supportive” of the private sector, pledging continued incentives and an enabling environment to spur business growth across Guyana. Addressing the 136th award presentation and gala of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Thursday evening, Rodrigues stressed the depth of the partnership between government and the business community.
Agriculture Minister honoured at GCCI awards for leadership in food security - Guyana Chronicle, December 14, 2025
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has been recognised for his leadership in strengthening national food security and advancing agricultural development at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry 135th Annual Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner. The recognition was conferred under the strategic direction of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s administration. The award, presented alongside recognition for the Ministry of Agriculture, acknowledged leadership and innovation in advancing Guyana’s agricultural systems, with particular emphasis on ensuring the country’s ability to feed its population while contributing to regional food security efforts.
‘We are now operating at a global scale’ - Guyana Chronicle, December 15, 2025
BOASTING improved operational standards, Guyanese businesses are now operating on a global scale with many enterprises achieving international certification, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Susan Rodrigues has said. “We are now operating on a global scale. Our ‘Made in Guyana’ certification mark initiative has been very successful. We’re now collaborating with the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) to expand this initiative and broaden its scope,” the minister said while addressing the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Awards and Gala last week.
‘Pool your talents, resources and knowledge’- Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, December 15, 2025
Promising guaranteed returns on investments across several key industries, the Government of Guyana is urging the local private sector to combine their talents to compete against global players. Speaking at the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)’s gala last week, Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally noted that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration, led by President Dr. Irfaan Ali has been putting in the prerequisite infrastructure and incentives needed to ensure that Guyanese businesses can actively participate in the country’s economic transformation.
GCCI boosts support for women entrepreneurs - Guyana Chronicle, January 3, 2026
Women in agro-processing are receiving stronger support as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) ramps up programmes to help them grow their businesses. With targeted training, and guidance on marketing, branding, and packaging, the chamber is helping women entrepreneurs expand their reach. Moreover, consortiums and initiatives to export Guyanese goods to Trinidad, Barbados, and beyond are creating new opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Guyana’s business sector is growing and SMEs must be ready – GCCI President says - Guyana Chronicle, January 4, 2026
City Chamber, THAG welcome President’s announcements
- Kaieteur News, Stabroek News
December 19, 2025
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) have welcomed announcements made by President Irfaan Ali on Wednes-day to boost entrepreneurship and business activity.
As the nation enters 2026, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kathy Smith, says the focus now is on ensuring Guyanese businesses are prepared to grow alongside the economy, with stronger engagement from the chamber and a renewed emphasis on financial literacy, one of the biggest challenges facing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs account for some 70 per cent of GCCI’s membership and Smith says the goal is to sustain and build on that growth.
PGS offering day-care service to employees - Guyana Chronicle, January 7, 2026
In August 2025, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security met with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and launched its Day, Night, and Early Childhood Centres Programme, encouraging businesses to establish on-site childcare services for their employees.
Several weeks later, the Professional Guard Service (PGS), under the leadership of Managing Director Mr Sean Kirkpatrick, implemented systems to allow employees to have their children remain supervised at the office while they executed their duties, the chamber said in a Facebook post.
Minister Singh engages private sector ahead of Budget 2026 - Stabroek News, Guyana Chronicle, January 18, 2026
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, met with key representatives of Guyana’s private sector on Saturday at the Ministry of Finance, as preparations intensify for Budget 2026. The engagement provided a platform for private-sector stakeholders to raise concerns, discuss priorities and engage directly with the government on matters critical to economic growth. Among those in attendance were senior officials from the Private Sector Commission, Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry Guyana, the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association Ltd., the Guyana Association of Bankers, and the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association.
GCCI sounds alarm on ‘unconscionable practices’ by shipping companies - Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle, January 24, 2026
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has raised an alarm about what it describes as unfair and unconscionable practices by shipping companies operating in Guyana over the past year. Drawing on complaints from its membership and its own observations, the chamber, in a statement, said a pattern of behaviour has emerged that threatens not only individual firms, but also the wider business environment and pace of national development. At the centre of its concern are steep and often unexplained fee increases, the unilateral extension of peak-period pricing and the sidelining of local businesses’ imports in favour of large foreign companies.
Fifty shade houses going up in Tiger Bay under new womenfocused agriculture project - Stabroek News, Guyana Times, January 26, 2026
Residents of Tiger Bay gathered last Friday at the One Guyana Kitchen on Main Street, Georgetown, for the launch of a shade house agriculture project aimed at creating income opportunities, particularly for women and young people. The initiative is being implemented through a partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, working closely with the private sector and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Under the pilot phase, President Irfaan Ali announced, 50 shade houses will be constructed in and around the Tiger Bay area, with all initial beneficiaries being women, specifically single women and young women.
Business hubs, stronger standards, financing support anticipated in Budget 2026 - Guyana Chronicle, January 26, 2026
Leaders of Guyana’s private sector are optimistic that the 2026 national budget will strengthen support for small and growing businesses, cementing long-term economic sustainability for the country’s evolving business landscape…Speaking on private sector expectations, GCCI President Kathy Smith highlighted what she described as a longstanding and meaningful engagement process. She noted that some GCCI recommendations were reflected in the 2025 budget, and said early announcements, including plans for a development bank, have fuelled expectations that the 2026 fiscal package will further support business and economic sector growth.
GCCI commends govt’s people-centric, development-attuned Budget 2026 - Guyana Chronicle, January 27, 2026
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has commended the Government of Guyana for its strategic focus on the development of its people and significant provisions to bolster the growth of the business community through targeted interventions in Budget 2026.
The Chamber, in a press statement, welcomed initiatives such as the removal of corporate tax on agriculture and agro-processing businesses; expansion of export allowance to include timber products; removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on locally made furniture and jewellery, and importation of security equipment, and the attention being paid on the development of the tourism sector. Anticipated to have a transformational effect on the playing field for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises in particular, the GCCI applauded the provision for US$100 million into the development of the zero-interest development bank.
Georgetown Chamber bemoans ‘unconscionable practices’ by shipping companies -Stabroek News, Guyana Times, January 24, 2026
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is calling on shipping companies to desist from engaging in unfair and unreasonable practices, and that such conduct is inimical to national development
GCCI, SAG meet over shipping concerns - Stabroek News, Guyana Times, Guyana Chronicle, January 28, 2026
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has engaged the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG) in high-level talks aimed at resolving persistent challenges facing local businesses in the shipping sector. The meeting, held on January 27 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, followed mounting complaints from companies affected by delays and escalating costs linked to cargo handling and clearance, a press release from GCCI stated. According to the GCCI, its members, along with the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association (GCHBCA), have raised concerns about unilateral increases in fees, prolonged clearance times, and extended peak-period charges.
Shipping woes - Kaieteur News January 30, 2026 /Editorial
The alarm bells are ringing once again and this time they are coming from two of the country’s most influential private sector bodies. The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) have both raised serious concerns about skyrocketing shipping costs, persistent delays, and what have been described as “unconscionable” practices by shipping companies operating in Guyana. Shipping & Logistics These warnings must not be dismissed as routine business complaints. They point to a systemic problem that is quietly undermining local production, driving up consumer prices, delaying construction projects, and threatening Guyana’s economic momentum at a time when the country is supposedly booming.
Public-private partnerships seen as critical to sustaining Guyana’s economic growth - Guyana Chronicle, February 19, 2026
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly being viewed as a central pillar in Guyana’s economic transformation, with government and private sector leaders pointing to collaboration as essential for sustaining growth and expanding opportunities across multiple industries. The importance of these partnerships was underscored during a panel discussion at the Guyana Energy Conference, where Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Gerald Gouveia Jr., Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Kathy Smith, SBM Offshore (Guyana) General Manager Martin Cheong, and Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Martin Pertab examined the evolving role of PPPs in national development.
