Guyana considers trade Barriers for CARICOM countries restricting its goods

Guyana has signaled potential restrictions on fellow Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries if barriers to Guyanese exports persist. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo emphasized reciprocity during the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Awards Dinner, stating, “If you don’t take our products, we won’t allow free access to yours.”

This response follows concerns raised by Lesley Ramlall, producer of the Only Coconuts brand, who reported difficulties exporting coconut oil to Trinidad & Tobago, despite successful exports elsewhere in CARICOM. Jagdeo acknowledged the long-standing issue and urged public advocacy to pressure non-compliant nations.

GMSA President Ramsay Ali was encouraged to address trade barriers, particularly the misuse of phytosanitary restrictions as de facto trade barriers. These measures, meant to prevent agricultural pests and diseases, are often used to block imports unfairly.

Addressing Regional Trade Disruptions

Jagdeo also addressed the impact of an industrial dispute at Trinidad & Tobago’s Port-of-Spain, which has delayed shipments to Guyana for over two months. The GMSA highlighted significant financial losses and rising consumer prices caused by the disruptions, particularly during the peak Christmas season.

The dispute, stemming from unresolved salary increases for port workers, has led to delays in clearing containers with raw materials and essential goods. While acknowledging the Guyanese government’s limited ability to resolve foreign labor disputes, Jagdeo said they are exploring solutions with the private sector to facilitate shipments. -(CMC)