Executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Wednesday, February 28, conferred with Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Naoki Saito, and exchanged views on Guyana’s political and economic situation, and discussed areas for collaboration and strengthening of trade relations, while the GCCI advocated for the eventuality of visa free travel for Guyanese to the Asian nation .

Held at the GCCI Waterloo Street Office, the meeting was attended by GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson and Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar.

Mr. Hutson shared with Mr. Saito the strategic work being done to ensure that Guyana’s economy remains diverse notwithstanding the country’s massive growth being predominantly due to the development in the country’s oil and gas sector. Mr. Hutson indicated the GCCI’s interest in developing a sustained relationship with the Japanese private sector, and strengthening trade between Guyana and Japan. Discussions were also held on the possibility of inbound and outbound trade missions between the two nations.

Mr. Ramsoondar talked about new challenges created by Guyana’s exponential growth such as issues with labour shortage, needs for new skill sets and increased need for business funding. He also highlighted the growth of the needs in the construction sector as an area where there exists many opportunities for Japan. With the automotive industry being one of the largest areas of trade between Guyana and Japan, that was noted as a key area where the two sides could do work on.

Mr. Saito expressed his keenness to work along with the GCCI to strengthen the relationships between Guyana and Japan.