Removal of non-tariff barriers a top priority - Foreign Secretary

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud

Removal of non-tariff barriers remains a top priority and Guyana remains “confident that the will exists on both sides to move forward.”

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud in a Facebook post earlier today said that “Guyana will continue to work assiduously in that spirit, using the best tools available, including cooperation pacts.”

According to the Foreign Secretary, “engagements with Trinidad and Tobago on the issue of non-tariff barriers and other matters have been frank and cordial, and with a view to achieving results in the interest of our respective populations and stakeholders on both sides.”

On Wednesday, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a statement cautioned the Government against signing any agreements with Trinidad and Tobago until existing non-tariff barriers with the Caricom state are resolved.

“The Chamber wishes to express its disagreement with this action by the Government of Guyana. The Chamber’s concern comes in light of the fact that there are still many non-tariff barriers (NTBs) implemented by Trinidad and Tobago against Guyana. These NTBs prevent exports from Guyanese businesses and, by extension, inhibit the growth of Guyanese enterprises.”

However, Mr. Persaud has clarified that, “Guyana has always prioritised the removal of non-tariff barriers to the free movement of goods and services within CARICOM. The President in fact has mandated a working group to lead this process.”

Several Caricom Heads of State are here for the two-day Agri Investment Forum and Expo and there are multiple meetings at various levels that are expected to take place on the sidelines of the main events.