— WTC Georgetown seminar urges modernisation and collaboration in navigating evolving global markets

AS global trade rules grow increasingly complex and non-tariff barriers multiply, Caribbean economies like Guyana must modernise and strengthen regional co-operation to remain competitive.

This was the key message shared by trade experts during the World Trade Centre Georgetown’s (WTCG) seminar, titled “Successfully Navigating the Current Global Trade Environment,” held as part of the Centre’s inaugural Business Week activities.

Moderated by Ambassador Neville Totaram, the session explored how small economies can thrive amid tightening international trade conditions. Ambassador Totaram underscored that sustainable growth for developing economies hinges on expanding exports and enhancing competitiveness.

“To grow, we must make other people’s markets ours,” he said. “Our businesses must be able to navigate the rules, the standards, and the financing systems that determine who truly gains access to global markets.”

He pointed to non-tariff measures—such as customs delays, certification requirements, and sanitary standards—as major obstacles that continue to frustrate exporters. “Predictability is what every trader needs,” Totaram added, stressing that the ability to comply efficiently is now as critical as product quality.

Adding practical insights, Abiola Heyliger, International Trade Policy Analyst and former U.S. Trade Negotiator, highlighted the administrative bottlenecks that burden local exporters. Sharing her own experiences dealing with lengthy port clearance procedures, she noted that bureaucracy and poor coordination often increase costs and erode competitiveness.

“The question isn’t only whether we’re ready for business,” Heyliger said, “it’s whether we’re ready for what happens at the port. Every delay or missing document adds to cost and reduces competitiveness.”

Heyliger also simplified key trade concepts—including tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and rules of origin—and demonstrated how understanding trade agreements can unlock preferential access for local producers. She encouraged micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to take advantage of emerging support through WTC Georgetown, CARICOM, and new partnerships with the African and European Unions.

From a regional industry perspective, Vaughn Renwick, Chief Executive Officer of the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA), highlighted the success of the Caribbean rum industry as an example of how heritage, collaboration, and strict quality standards can create globally respected brands.

“Rum tells a story of heritage, compliance, and market evolution,” Renwick said. “From bulk exports to premium global brands, our success depends on quality, rules of origin, and strong geographical identity — lessons that apply across all export sectors.”

He also praised Guyana’s ongoing investments in sugar and molasses production, noting that these efforts support regional value chains. Renwick further acknowledged the growing role of women in the rum industry, including several master blenders at Demerara Distillers Limited.

The seminar concluded with a strong call for enhanced collaboration among exporters, trade agencies, and regional institutions to streamline border procedures, reduce costs, and foster a culture of trade readiness.

“The big companies can defend themselves,” Ambassador Totaram said in closing. “But smaller enterprises need partnership, training, and supportive policy environments to compete — and that’s exactly where the World Trade Centre Georgetown can make a difference.”

The seminar formed part of WTC Georgetown’s official launch activities, connecting Guyanese businesses to a global network of more than 300 World Trade Centres worldwide. Through these linkages, WTCG aims to create new pathways for trade facilitation, training, and international investment opportunities across the region.