— Over 230 jobs, local partnerships and offshore training programmes in pipeline

IN cementing its long-term commitment to Guyana’s oil and gas industry, global offshore engineering giant Mitsui Ocean Development and Engineering Company (MODEC), on Friday, officially opened its permanent, state-of-the-art office at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
The world-class facility not only marks MODEC’s physical expansion but also signifies the company’s deeper integration into Guyana’s energy landscape. With multimillion-dollar contracts secured and plans underway to scale up operations, MODEC is expected to create over 230 jobs by 2026, most of which will go to Guyanese.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali briefly toured the newly commissioned office and cut the ceremonial ribbon before departing for another engagement.
Delivering the keynote address on his behalf was Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, who described the opening as another clear sign that Guyana’s oil sector is fuelling more than just energy; it’s attracting serious investment and building confidence in the country’s future.
She said make no mistake about it, MODEC is no ordinary visitor, they are here to stay, to grow and build alongside Guyana with more than 50 years of experience in offshore energy, MODEC has operated in every corner of the world from Brazil to Ghana to Japan and now they bring that unmatched expertise for Guyana ships.
The minister noted that they are a global leader in floating production systems that are the heart of deep-water oil production, now they are bringing jobs, training, technology and opportunities.
MODEC has already secured two of the largest contracts in Guyana’s offshore sector, including for FPSOs, which are central to deep-water oil extraction.
Their new office is complete with six meeting rooms named after Indigenous groups, a training room, and other modern amenities will serve as a hub for both on-shore operations and talent development.
Minister Walrond noted that Guyana is already reaping the benefits of these partnerships. She pointed out that MODEC operations here will generate hundreds of jobs during the startup phase alone, and when production begins, more than 160 jobs will be sustained.

Meanwhile, in his remarks, Rafeal Fumis, Country Manager, MODEC Guyana, said it is both an honour and a deeply personal privilege to be at the opening which marks a significant milestone in MODEC’s journey— the inauguration of their first permanent office here in Guyana.
He added that MODEC’s connection with Guyana began as a dream nearly a decade ago, when the first opportunity in this vibrant country emerged.
“That patience and perseverance were rewarded when we secured key contracts, allowing us to establish a meaningful presence on Guyanese soil. Setting up an office in a new country is never a simple task. It requires more than just logistics; it demands a deep understanding of a new business environment, an appreciation for diverse work cultures and a commitment to meeting the expectations of our clients, the community, and both public and private sectors,” he said.
Fumis reported that their long-term contracts programme is thriving, with partnerships now established with over 40 local companies and new opportunities emerging every day.
“We have put in place a strong management system, with processes and standards that are a hallmark of MODEC, bringing real value to our operations in Guyana. Of course, our voyage is far from over. We are preparing to launch our Offshore Trainee Programme, providing opportunities for another batch of Guyanese to receive industry-standard training in the oil and gas sector,” Fumis said.
Also making brief remarks was Dr Akima Umezawa, Ambassador of Japan to Guyana; Dr Peter Ramsaroop, Chief Investment Officer (GO-INVEST); ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge; and Chief Operating Officer MODEC Group, Guyana, Katsuyuki Imaizumi.