Suriname/Guyana Business Chamber now has over 100 members as it celebrates 1st anniversary

– 500 Surinamese/Guyanese, int’l companies expected at upcoming conference

It has been a year since it launched and already, the Suriname/Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) has grown its membership to over 100, while it currently plans to host a business conference that will bring together 500 Surinamese, Guyanese and international companies combined.

In a statement over the weekend, SGCC reflected on its year of success since its launch. In a release, it explained that it has been able to expand its visibility and influence in key sectors through the attendance of conferences and trade missions… activities which have no doubt helped with the growth of its membership.
“Highlights include the Guyana Energy Conference, the Building Conference in Suriname, the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, and the Suriname Energy Oil and Gas Summit, where SGCC led the largest-ever delegation of Guyanese companies to Suriname, with over 60 companies represented. Most recently, SGCC participated in the International Building Expo, further solidifying its role as a vital connector in regional business development,” the chamber stated.
The chamber explained that it now has over 100 approved members and has formed strong alliances with numerous business support organizations. According to the group, their efforts have borne fruit, with a focus on improving the ferry service and pushing for an online booking system, advancing the double taxation agreement between Guyana and Suriname, and promoting local content policies that benefit regional businesses in Suriname.
“Now the SGCC is excited to host its first International Business Conference on October 15th – 17th at the Guyana Marriot Hotel. This flagship event will be focusing on manufacturing, agro-processing, and other key sectors.”
“This conference will bring together over 200 companies from Suriname and Guyana, and an expected 300 plus international companies alongside delegations from Curacao, Brazil, the Caribbean, and beyond, creating unparalleled B2B opportunities,” SGCC said.
They also went on to invite businesses to participate at their conference, where global leaders are expected to meet and provide opportunities to forge new partnerships and networks. The statement also featured Suriname Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal, who pointed to the significance of the milestone and what it meant for the growing ties between Suriname and Guyana.
“Celebrating the first anniversary of the SGCC is a testament to the incredible strides made in fostering economic collaboration between our two nations. Over the past year, the SGCC has facilitated meaningful connections, championed shared business interests, and provided a platform for dialogue and growth.”
“As one of the initiators of the chamber, I extend my deepest gratitude to the board and members for their unwavering dedication, which has been instrumental in advancing the SGCC’s mission. Together, we have built a vibrant network of cooperation and opportunity that strengthens both our business communities and regional ties,” the statement said.
The mission of the Chamber is to foster collaboration and network and to expand and get economic trade within both countries. The chamber consists of businesses from various sectors including construction, consultancy, oil and gas.
Initiated by Chairman and former Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Dr. Vishnu Doerga and Ambassador Blankendal, SGCC’s Startup Committee brought together leading businesses from both nations.
Representing Guyana were Floor It Guyana, M. Sookhai & Co, Guyana Port Inc., and Glasgow Law Firm, while Suriname was represented by Creative Tech Hub Caribbean, Optiek Ninon, Fernandes Group, and Elgawa Suriname.