Surinamese plans further investment in Guyana
-calls on Agriculture Minister
Georgetown, GINA, September 24, 2007.
Government in its quest to develop Guyana continues to create the enabling environment to facilitate private investments in various sectors of the economy. This was further highlighted today during a meeting with Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud and Executive President of Rudisa International, Rudi Sardjoe of Suriname.
During the meeting at the Minister’s Office, Vlissengen Road and Regent Street, the Surinamese investor updated the Minister on his company’s current operations in Guyana and plans to invest further in processing activities. Rudisa International, a Paramaribo-based company is one of the largest beverage bottling corporations in neighbouring Suriname that has entered the local beverage market with a wide range of soft drinks, juices, bottled water and beer.
Minister Persaud noted that the discussions were focused on expansion of the company’s investments in Guyana with emphasis on agriculture and agro-processing activities. A possible collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture through the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) to develop refined sugar and molasses was discussed.
The company’s investment in Guyana, the Minister said is an indication of the friendly relations that exist between the two countries and expressed satisfaction with the firm’s intention to enhance trade between the two countries and ensure balance of imports.
The possibility of Rudisa International serving as a distributor of Guyanese products could be explored to derive more benefits for local products. Additionally, the recent investment in the establishment of an airline service between Guyana and Suriname was lauded as a venture that would encourage greater economic and commercial development.
Sarjoe told the Minister that the company has already invested more than US$5M in Guyana and has acquired necessary properties required for its future investments. It is looking toward industrial ventures with focus on high quality production of items such as paper products and baby feeds. Future expansion is aimed at creating employment for more than 600 persons over the next two years.
Government’s thrust to facilitate a market-driven economy has seen the establishment of several entities which seek to attract both local and foreign direct investments, and assist in the growth and development of industry. Over the past several years, significant investments have been recorded in all 10 Administrative Regions, with Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica) attracting the highest.
Guyana has witnessed the emergence of a new and dynamic small business culture. This development relates to Government’s policy to stimulate private enterprise for economic growth.
The PPP/C Administration continues to implement policies geared towards attracting investment. This trend will further contribute to the positive growth of the economy, thereby elevating the standard of living for all Guyanese.
more bulletins
