GCCI’s 2024 Business Development Forum focuses on empowering local businesses to tap into O&G supply chain
Under the theme ‘Developing local businesses for the emerging energy sector’, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) 2024 Business Development Forum commenced on November 14, with keen focus on empowering Guyanese businesses to tap into the oil and gas supply chain.
Senior Vice President of the Chamber and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith in her opening remarks spoke of the Chamber’s commitment to fostering opportunities for Guyanese companies and building their capacity to serve the energy sector.
“As Guyana positions itself as a rising player in the global energy industry, your presence here signals a shared commitment to harnessing these opportunities for local enterprises and economic growth. At the GCCI, our mission is to champion the interests of local businesses large and small as they navigate challenges and seize the opportunities in Guyana’s oil economy. This year’s forum is especially timely as the energy sector’s growth accelerates with its ripple effect impacting various industries,” she stated. The Senior Vice President emphasised that it is critical that Guyanese businesses are well-positioned to supply the sector’s needs and create value across the supply chain.
President of the Chamber, Mr. Kester Hutson shared similar sentiments, noting that the Forum serves as a vital platform for collaboration and growth for the business community. In his address to participants, he underscored the need for an investment environment that provides favourable conditions for Guyanese entrepreneurs.
“The GCCI is committed to advocating for policies that support business development across all sectors focusing on improved access to finance, streamlining regulations and entrepreneurship. We urge the Government of Guyana to strengthen policies that facilitate private sector growth by creating a regulatory framework that promotes entrepreneurship, ensure access to finance, and encourages digitisation and sustainability as the future of our private sector depends on it,” Mr. Hutson stressed.
Day One of the Business Development Forum saw remarks and presentations being delivered by key stakeholders of the energy sector, including Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Mr. Joslyn McKenzie; Area Procurement Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana, Mr. Spencer Hutchings; Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Gopnauth ‘Bobby’ Ramsaroop Jr., and Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr. Martin Pertab.
