GEORGETOWN, Guyana – As Guyana’s economy continues its rapid expansion, local businesses are being encouraged to look beyond the domestic market and position themselves to take advantage of opportunities in the United States, one of the world’s largest consumer economies.
The World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) will host a business luncheon on June 17 focused on strengthening commercial ties between Guyana and the United States and helping local companies better understand pathways to exporting, investment, and international partnerships.
The featured speaker, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets Arun Venkataraman, is expected to share insights on trade policy, market access, investment opportunities, and strategies for businesses seeking to expand internationally.
The event comes at a time when Guyana is increasingly seeking to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. While the country’s economic growth has attracted significant foreign investment, business leaders have argued that local companies must also develop the capacity to access larger international markets and participate in global supply chains.
The United States remains Guyana’s largest trading partner and home to one of the country’s most significant diaspora populations. Hundreds of thousands of Guyanese and persons of Guyanese heritage reside in New York, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and other states, creating potential networks for business partnerships, investment, distribution, and market entry.
Many Guyanese-owned businesses in the United States have established themselves in sectors ranging from healthcare and technology to logistics, construction, retail, and professional services. These connections represent an often-overlooked advantage for Guyanese exporters seeking to enter the U.S. market.
Industry observers note that diaspora communities frequently serve as the first customers and business champions for products from their countries of origin. For Guyana, this could create opportunities for agro-processing, food products, manufacturing, tourism services, technology solutions, and other non-oil exports.
The forum is also expected to examine how Guyanese businesses can navigate changing global trade conditions and strengthen their competitiveness as international interest in Guyana continues to grow.
With increasing attention being placed on economic diversification, export development, and private sector growth, organizers say the discussions are intended to provide practical guidance for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders seeking to capitalize on opportunities beyond Guyana’s borders.
The luncheon is expected to attract representatives from the private sector, investment community, and business support organizations.