THE highly anticipated GuyExpo 2024 is set to make a grand return from November 14-17 at the Sophia Exhibition Centre in Georgetown. Promising to be bigger and better than ever, the trade exposition has been a staple of Guyana’s economic calendar since its inception in 1995, making it the country’s oldest, largest, and most consistently held business expo.

At the official launch on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, revealed that this year’s event aims to surpass previous years, featuring over 250 booths and drawing more than 100,000 visitors. Last year’s relaunch, after a seven-year hiatus, attracted over 80,000 patrons and showcased more than 200 booths.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Walrond emphasised the significance of GuyExpo as a platform that highlights the diversity of Guyanese businesses and the country’s ongoing economic expansion. She noted that while the oil and gas sector often garners the spotlight, Guyana’s growth story extends far beyond. The non-oil sector has experienced a remarkable 49 per cent growth this year, a testament to the government’s broader economic agenda.

“GuyExpo is one of the nation’s most anticipated and important annual events,” Walrond said. “This year, we’re building on last year’s momentum with an ambitious goal to attract more exhibitors and visitors. The event continues to evolve, reflecting the global growth and competitiveness of Guyanese businesses.”

Under the theme “Guyana on Show: The Fastest Growing Economy,” GuyExpo 2024 will feature a broad spectrum of exhibitors, including agro-processors, micro-enterprises, and established businesses like Comfort Sleep and Twins Manufacturing. These companies have previously used the platform to introduce new products and are expected to participate again, leveraging the expo’s high visibility to boost brand recognition and fuel growth.

Minister Walrond also underscored the government’s unwavering support for small businesses, many of which have transformed into thriving enterprises through platforms like GuyExpo. “Many of these enterprises, once small and emerging, have now evolved into viable, thriving entities. We are proud to offer them a platform like GuyExpo to showcase their achievements,” she said.

Encouraging businesses of all sizes and entrepreneurs to register early, Minister Walrond stressed the importance of maximising the exposure the event offers. She also expressed gratitude to sponsors who have already committed to the event and extended an invitation to more businesses to get involved, noting the strong enthusiasm building around this year’s edition.

Registration for GuyExpo 2024 will open from October 1 through October 30, with interested participants able to sign up either online at www.guyexpo.gy or at the National Sophia Exhibition Centre. Walrond concluded by urging everyone to mark their calendars for what promises to be the biggest and most impactful GuyExpo yet.