Canadian companies optimistic about investing in Guyana

Acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali on Monday met with several small, medium and large-scale Canadian companies and individuals who are interested in doing business in Guyana, particularly providing more airlift services to the domestic market.

Ali, along with a small contingent, hosted a string of meetings at various locations in Canada which aimed to not only promote the investment opportunities available in Guyana, but create linkages that could result in joint investment ventures in various sectors.
The tourism minister also met with Michael Thompson, a city councillor for Scarborough, Ontario Ward 37. Thompson also chairs the Economic Development and Culture Committee. “I would say that the meetings have gone exceptionally well, and I am excited because of the enthusiasm I see on the faces of those persons who are exposed to the potential investment opportunities presented to them during our discourse,” Ali told Guyana Times International on Monday evening from Canada.
He explained that meetings and engagements were also hosted with several private companies and individuals about various projects. “Two companies were interested in providing improved airlift services… others are attracted to the incentives of setting up shop in Guyana. It appears that the optimism shown by investors is unprecedented and points to gains and growth of the country’s investment portfolio and the confidence that persons have in our economy,” the minister noted. A company was also interested in establishing a recycling plant.
Asked whether he could divulge other details such as names of the potential investors, the minister noted that discussions were still at the infancy level and it would be premature to say much at this point. He did commit to sharing more in-depth information about his undertaking in Canada upon his return to Guyana.
Meanwhile, the acting tourism minister has also used his trip to Canada as a means of amassing support for GuyExpo 2012 which opens this month. Minister Ali confirmed that a delegation of businessmen and Canadians are expected to participate in this year’s exposition in a more meaningful way when compared to previous years.
“I have confirmed that all plans are being set in train to facilitate this trip to Guyana to participate in an exhibition that has managed to attract international commendations and attention,” he offered during the interview. Inroads have already been made in the provision of affordable airlift to and from Guyana. More direct flights are also occurring as persons laud the advancement made in the tourism sector, since Ali’s appointment to the post last year.