Expanding consular footprint, breaking trade barriers & tapping diaspora – PPP/C manifesto

As Guyana prepares for the next five years of rapid transformation, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is setting its sights on strengthening international relations and deepening Guyana’s presence in global markets.
In its 2025–2030 manifesto, the party outlined plans to lobby for the removal of non-tariff barriers to trade while simultaneously expanding the country’s diplomatic and consular footprint, particularly across Latin America.
According to the manifesto, safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains the foremost priority.
Back in April, Guyana had been included on a list of countries facing reciprocal tariffs from the United States (US), a measure that, once implemented, could have seen the cost of doing business increase and had resulted in the Government of Guyana reaching out to its partners in the US, seeking answers.
According to a chart US President Donald Trump read from, Guyana had a 38 per cent reciprocal tariff rate applied to its exports to the US in response to the 76 per cent tariff that Guyana was listed as imposing on US products.
Earlier this month, the White House announced that the 38 per cent reciprocal tariff announced for Guyana in April has been reduced to 15 per cent.
Vice President and PPP/C General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has already disclosed that the Guyana Government plans to continue engaging the US – a move now being extended to other countries.

Consular offices
The PPP/C said it will continue to deepen ties with traditional partners while forging new relationships with friendly nations that share common values. A key part of this strategy includes the establishment of new diplomatic missions and/or consular offices across Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. These new outposts will focus on promoting investment, trade, and wider economic opportunities for Guyana.
At the trade level, the Government has committed to identifying and pursuing opportunities in international markets for Guyanese products. It plans to provide market intelligence and guidance to local businesses on access requirements and competitive opportunities abroad. Central to this agenda is the PPP/C’s pledge to continue lobbying for the removal of non-tariff barriers, which remain a significant obstacle for exporters in accessing new markets.
In addition, Guyana will continue to uphold its obligations under existing bilateral, regional, and multilateral trade agreements. The party also announced plans to develop a migration policy that balances the protection of Guyanese workers and investors with the need to attract foreign labour in areas where skills gaps exist due to the country’s rapid economic growth.
Beyond its international diplomacy, the PPP/C also pledged to strengthen engagement with the Guyanese diaspora. Recognising its vast potential in investment, innovation, and advocacy, the party plans to encourage greater diaspora involvement in national development, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas. Through targeted outreach and partnerships, the diaspora will be encouraged to play a more active role in Guyana’s transformation while maintaining strong connections with the homeland.
The manifesto underscored that these measures are part of a larger vision of positioning Guyana as an active and respected player on the regional and global stage. By expanding consular representation, breaking down trade barriers, and harnessing the strength of the diaspora, the PPP/C believes Guyana can secure its sovereignty while unlocking greater economic opportunities for its citizens.