HIS Excellency Conrad Enill, High Commissioner of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to Guyana and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Suriname, has called on businesses across the Caribbean and the international community to seize the immense opportunities presented by the upcoming International Business Conference (IBC) 2024. Emphasising the importance of collaboration in today’s interconnected global market, Enill hailed the IBC as a pivotal platform for driving regional economic growth, strengthening partnerships, and fostering investment.

In a press release, Enill highlighted the enduring bilateral relationship between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, which has thrived for over 60 years. He underscored the deep-rooted ties in trade, culture, and investment that have long supported both nations through challenging times. “Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana have stood by each other, and I see no reason why this bond will not continue to flourish,” he said, noting that these historical ties are poised to evolve with the current wave of economic development, particularly in the energy sector.

One of the key areas of potential collaboration discussed by Enill is the energy sector, where Trinidad and Tobago’s decades of experience in oil and gas could significantly bolster Guyana’s burgeoning industry. “The expertise that Trinidad brings, particularly in quality and safety standards, will have long-term benefits for Guyana’s energy sector as it continues to grow,” he remarked. He further highlighted that Trinidad’s robust manufacturing sector—often overshadowed by its oil and gas prominence—offers valuable expertise that could contribute to Guyana’s industrial development.

“The IBC provides an invaluable opportunity for businesses within CARICOM and beyond to forge new partnerships, scale up operations, and tap into emerging markets that were once out of reach,” Enill stated. He emphasised the importance of platforms like the IBC in fostering business-to-business networking, noting that the event is particularly well-positioned to benefit small and medium-large enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand their reach in the global marketplace.

Enill pointed out that Guyana’s rapid economic growth has created significant opportunities for foreign direct investment (FDI) in sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, and renewable energy. He highlighted, “What you will see at the international business conference is that knowledge will be shared, and that experience will allow for the learning curve to be less steep than it ordinarily would be.”

In a clear call to action, Enill stressed the need for a shift from competition to collaboration as the new paradigm for economic success in the region. “The old way of doing business was grounded in competition, but today, collaboration is essential. The IBC offers a platform for us to pool our resources, strengthen our collective capabilities, and elevate the Caribbean’s standing in the global market,” he concluded.

As the International Business Conference 2024 approaches, it promises to be a landmark event that will reshape the business landscape across the Caribbean. With high-level discussions, targeted networking opportunities, and avenues for foreign investment, the IBC is set to play a crucial role in advancing regional development, fostering new business partnerships, and driving economic growth.

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