The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TTCIC) have announced plans to establish a joint complaints desk aimed at addressing non-tariff barriers affecting trade between the two nations. This initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on Wednesday.
TTCIC Chief Executive Officer Dr. Vashti Guyadeen stated that the complaints desk will serve as a formal mechanism for businesses to report trade issues. The desk will collect data from relevant businesses, allowing for tracking and evidence-based solutions to be developed. The goal is to have this desk operational within three months.
Dr. Guyadeen highlighted the need for updates to the fresh produce protocol concerning pineapple crowns and eddoes peppers, as well as a mechanism to address taxation issues. She emphasized that addressing these concerns would require ongoing efforts rather than one-time actions.
GCCI President Kathy Smith noted that the need for the MoU and the press conference indicated existing challenges with exports from Guyana, particularly in relation to pineapple, honey, and red pepper. A working group is set to convene in two weeks to compile information before engaging with the governments of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
For nearly two decades, Guyana has sought amendments to Trinidad and Tobago’s Beekeeping and Bee Products Act of 1935, which currently prohibits the transit of honey from foreign countries to protect the local beekeeping industry. Both major political parties in Trinidad and Tobago have previously indicated a willingness to reconsider this law in response to lobbying efforts from Guyana and Grenada within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
However, TTCIC President Karen Yip Chuk expressed support for the legal protections in place, citing technical advice regarding the potential risks to local bee populations. She emphasized the importance of consulting with experts in the field to assess the implications of any changes to the law.
Source: demerarawaves.com
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