September 28, 2026 |
Events, Publications
BEYOND THE BARREL: OIL, GAS, GROWTH AND THE GUYANESE CONTRACTOR
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted its annual Energy Luncheon Yesterday at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, under the theme “Beyond the Barrel: Oil, Gas, Growth and the Guyanese Contractor.”
The event brought together GCCI members, local business leaders, contractors and key stakeholders in Guyana’s energy sector for a conversation centred on what continued growth in the industry must mean for Guyanese businesses, and what companies must do to position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities being created.
Opening the programme, GCCI President Mrs. Kathy Smith placed local participation at the centre of the conversation. “Oil and gas in Guyana should resemble Guyana.” Mrs. Smith challenged stakeholders to consider how the development of the sector can translate into greater opportunities for Guyanese businesses and workers, while ensuring that local companies are equipped with the information, capacity and partnerships needed to participate at increasingly higher levels.
Mr. Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, built on that call, noting that while the development of the country’s resources must deliver economic value, the longer-term focus must remain on people. “People are the most valuable resource for the long term.” Mr. Routledge pointed to the infrastructure, workforce and business capability that have developed alongside the industry over the past decade, while stressing that this should be viewed as a foundation for what comes next. “Where we start today is not where we end. That’s the beginning of the pipeline.”
Delivering the Keynote Address, Hon. Deodat Indar, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, shifted the conversation towards the range of opportunities emerging beyond oil production itself. Minister Indar pointed to areas including logistics, transportation, warehousing, certification and testing, catering, waste management, instrumentation, construction and opportunities associated with the continued development and use of natural gas.
His message to businesses was also one of focus, specialisation and partnership. “You’ve got to bring somebody who knows to help you. You’ve got to find a partner who knows the business.” The minister said.
The discussions throughout the Luncheon reinforced that the opportunities created by Guyana’s energy sector extend well beyond what happens offshore. They are also found in the businesses being built, the people being trained, the partnerships being formed and the capabilities being developed here at home.
