The Guyana Manufacturers’ Association (GMSA) hosted its annual mid-year dinner last night at the Princess Hotel, marking the launch of its 60th-anniversary celebration.
The event which garnered significant attendance from GMSA members, government officials, private sector representatives, and diplomatic community members featured a range of discussions centered around the growth and advancement of agro-processors and other businesses in the private sector.
A prominent topic of conversation revolved around GMSA’s active participation in the deliberations of the Small Business Bureau which is undergoing a re-engineering process. In his address, GMSA’s President, Ramsay Ali, emphasized the association’s intention to contribute a valuable perspective to these discussions. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by GMSA’s membership and expressed the need for constructive dialogue to optimize the bureau’s operations.
While Ali commended the current management, he stressed the importance of streamlining resource access for agro-processors, a substantial segment of GMSA’s membership. Notably, he highlighted the substantial expenses associated with initiating and expanding businesses, underscoring the association’s efforts to collaborate with various agencies for a more streamlined growth trajectory.
Minister Deodat Indar, from the Ministry of Public Works, also addressed the attendees, reiterating his administration’s commitment to alleviating business proprietors’ challenges. He outlined cost-cutting initiatives through infrastructure expansion, road network enhancement, and the upcoming Gas-to-Shore project at Wales, West Bank Demerara, which holds significant benefits for both Guyanese citizens and business owners.
Furthermore, GMSA unveiled plans for a new $260 million building at Cummings Lodge, a departure from its current Waterloo Street location. This new facility will serve not only as a hub for its membership but will also house training rooms, product launch spaces, areas for mini exhibitions, and other essential amenities. To fund this initiative, GMSA has launched a building fund campaign, which received initial contributions during the dinner. The association aims to continue raising funds over the upcoming months.
