THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has congratulated the Government of Guyana on the operationalisation of the Guyana Development Bank (GDB), which commenced operations yesterday.
In a press release issued on Monday, the Chamber said the new institution adds a financing avenue for Guyanese entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It described the timing as important, noting that access to affordable finance remains a key consideration for businesses seeking to start, expand and strengthen their operations.
The GCCI said it has consistently advocated for an enabling environment in which local businesses can access the financing, technical support and opportunities needed to become more competitive and sustainable.
In that light, the Chamber said it views the development of the Bank as a pillar of Guyana’s evolving financial and business-support ecosystem.
The Chamber pointed to the wider economic context, saying that as Guyana’s economy continues to expand and new opportunities emerge across traditional and developing sectors, greater access to capital will be critical.
This, it said, will help ensure that local businesses are positioned to participate meaningfully in that growth. Looking ahead, the GCCI said it hopes the Bank will develop financing mechanisms that are accessible, responsive to the realities of the local business community, and supportive of sustainable enterprise development.
The Chamber also extended congratulations to the Bank’s inaugural Board of Directors, which comprises Chairperson Mr. Abu Zaman; Deputy Chairperson and GCCI President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Mr. James Bond; Mr. Sukrishnall Pasha; Mr. Dion Inniss; Ms. Nalini Singh; and Mr. Praem Rambharak. The GCCI wished the Board success as it guides the institution through its formative stage.