‘Made in Guyana’ does not mean inferiority

WHEN we discuss Guyanese businesses, we often use the term “local.” It is most often used to describe products that are made in Guyana or businesses in Guyana. Apart from using it as an adjective to describe businesses, some Guyanese also use it as an insult or jab at products or businesses from Guyana. When comparing Guyanese-made products to imported ones of similar properties, the term “local” is used to describe the “lesser” of the two. By now, I’m sure you can tell which one they consider “less” or “inferior.”

Does this always mean that local products are inferior compared to imported products? Are local products made from inferior ingredients? Aren’t entrepreneurs in Guyana as skilled and qualified as foreigners? There’s a feeling of intense contempt towards local businesses in Guyana. Yes, some of us support local businesses and their products but perhaps, we do so because it’s a friend or a friend of a friend. Or, maybe we simply support said business because it’s trending.

I’m in no way saying that because it’s a Guyanese-owned business, it means we should support it—simply out of patriotism. No. What I’m saying is that we ought to learn to give credit where it’s due and that should include our local businesses as well. We should be more open-minded about trying locally made products and supporting local businesses. Guyanese will have doubts about the ingredients used in a Guyanese brand, but they’d buy a similar, imported product without thinking twice about what it’s made with.

I do agree that local business owners have a part to play in this as well. They ought to help Guyanese customers trust their brand and name with accountability and assurances. Nonetheless, I still believe they have to work twice as hard to gain consumers’ trust—even with the best marketing strategies in place. Let’s work hand in hand. Both consumers and local business owners of Guyana ought to work together to help make “Made in Guyana” a term of quality.

To consumers: the next time you buy imported plantain chips without thinking twice, consider the local vendor on the road. Maybe his plantain is organic and tastes 100% sweeter. To local business owners; learn how to promote your brand and don’t give up. By shopping local you are helping to create jobs in our country; you are helping to put food on the table for many business owners and most importantly—you are helping to uplift the name of the land of many waters.

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