SCRAP metal dealers are still not certain whether they will be able to ply their trade before Christmas.In August, it was announced that the Ministry of Business was working towards a November 2016 target for the completion of comprehensive reforms and resumption of the scrap-metal trade.
Guyana Scrap Metal Dealers Association (GSMDA) Secretary Michael Benjamin told the Guyana Chronicle that dealers are awaiting the promised November deadline to see what happens next.
He expressed hope of a confirmation on the issue by November 30, but noted that uncertainty is still high.
Recently, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin said following the audit report on the scrap metal industry in December last year, it was realised that reforms, which include legislative amendments, new regulations and the application of smart solutions in monitoring the trade, are needed.
It further stated, since last year September, the association has been engaging the Ministry on the resumption of exports.
“I do understand the hardships that metal dealers are facing and my earlier commitment to resolve the matter still stands. However, we cannot resume under the same terms and conditions which previously prevailed and expect to achieve a different result,” Gaskin stated.