–engages Japanese diplomat on opportunities for trade

THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Wednesday, met with Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Naoki Saito, to discuss areas for collaboration and strengthening of trade relations, while also advocating for potential visa-free travel for Guyanese to Japan.

The meeting was attended by the President of GCCI, Kester Hutson and Junior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar, and was held at the GCCI Waterloo Street, Georgetown office.

According to information from GCCI, the executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Second Secretary Saito exchanged views on Guyana’s political and economic situation.

They also discussed areas for collaboration and strengthening of trade relations, while the local company advocated for possible visa-free travel in the future for Guyanese to the Asian nation.

Hutson indicated GCCI’s interest in developing a sustained relationship with the Japanese private sector, and strengthening trade between Guyana and Japan. Discussions were also held on the possibility of inbound and outbound trade missions between the two nations.

The GCCI President also highlighted the strategic work being done to ensure Guyana’s economy remains diverse, despite the country’s massive growth, mainly due to the development in the country’s oil and gas sector.

Ramsoondar addressed new challenges created by Guyana’s rapid growth such as issues with labour shortage, needs for new skillsets and increased need for business funding.

He also highlighted the needs in the construction sector, noting that it is an area where there exists many opportunities for Japan. With the automotive industry being one of the largest areas of trade between Guyana and Japan, that was noted as a key area where the two sides could do work on.

Saito expressed his keenness to work along with the GCCI to strengthen the relationships between both countries.