–emphasises importance of information, experience sharing among regional partners to address crucial issues
OVER the course of four days, the Global Supply Chain Forum convened in Barbados to address the pressing challenges facing supply chains today and in the future.
Organised by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Government of Barbados, the forum saw participation from key stakeholders, including Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill of Guyana.
In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister Edghill highlighted that the recently concluded conference underscored the multifaceted disruptions that have impacted supply chains globally.
He cited the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical developments, and climate change as major factors increasing the volatility of maritime freight rates and transport costs. These disruptions have led to financial uncertainty, energy transitions, and food security concerns, underscoring the necessity of the forum.
Minister Edghill elaborated on the specific challenges faced by Guyana, particularly in transport and logistics.
He pointed out that Guyana’s geographic isolation and limited infrastructure, including inadequate shipping and air connectivity, pose significant hurdles.
“Limited routes and the absence of a deep seaport and container terminal have led to higher costs, reduced travel options, and restricted freight services,” Edghill noted.
The expansion of the oil and gas sector in Guyana further exacerbates these issues, demanding large shorebase facilities and road infrastructure that the current setup struggles to support.
Economic vulnerability and reliance on imports were also discussed, with Edghill explaining how global supply chain disruptions have led to significant shortages and price rises in Guyana.
“Interruptions in global supply systems have resulted in increased transportation costs and higher consumer goods prices, straining household budgets,” he said.
Climate change and natural disasters add another layer of complexity. Minister Edghill spoke about the impact of extreme dry seasons on agriculture, particularly rice production, and the threat posed by rising sea levels to coastal Guyana, which lies about six feet below sea level.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Edghill highlighted how travel restrictions and shortened shipping schedules affected the transport of goods and people, leading to shortages of essential items and economic shocks. He stressed the need for a multifaceted approach to create sustainable and resilient transport systems in Guyana. This includes investment in infrastructure, promotion of public transport, integration of renewable energy, and community engagement.
“In the last five years, there has been a significant focus on upgrading transportation infrastructure to withstand the impacts of climate change,” Edghill stated.
He emphasised the government’s efforts to promote public transport, transition to renewable energy sources, and engage local communities in decision-making processes. Initiatives like subsidies, tax breaks, and the development of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles are already in place.
Edghill also underscored the importance of international collaboration. “It is critical to promote information and experience sharing, as well as the dissemination of best practices across Member States, governmental entities, and the corporate sector,” he said.
The forum aimed to foster collaboration and synergy among stakeholders to address transportation and supply chain challenges, assess their influence on sustainable commerce and development, and plan a path for long-term sustainability.
The high-level plenary panel of transport ministers, including Edghill, focused on the unique challenges and opportunities for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the realm of transport and logistics.
The forum’s discussions and outcomes are expected to pave the way for more resilient and sustainable supply chain solutions globally.
