Guyanese examine strategies to expand the professional services

The challenges of developing Guyana's professional services for export to capitalise on globalisation opportunities were the focus of a Commonwealth workshop held in Guyana on 8 February 2007.

Some 50 officials from the country's public and private sectors who participated in a Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation workshop in the Guyanese capital, Georgetown, examined strategies to expand the professional services sector in the country.

They highlighted the need to address domestic regulation, the cost of telecommunications, the training of skilled personnel and the lack of information on professional services sector.

Dr Henry Jeffrey, Guyana's Minister of Foreign Trade and International Co-operation, said: "Given the fast pace at which trade in services is currently growing, it is imperative that Guyana maximises the opportunities for growth and development. To ensure expansion of services in the economy, the major constraints must be addressed in a strategic way."

Nikhil Treebhoohun, Adviser and Head of Trade in the Commonwealth Secretariat's Special Advisory Services Division, said this workshop was aimed at enhancing and diversifying the professional services sector in Guyana for the global market.

"Change requires clear and far-sighted leadership, not only from political leaders but also from business and trade unions. Success will depend on the extent to which people are able to adapt to market needs," added Mr Treebhoohun.

Representatives from the ministries of commerce, external affairs, international trade, law, health and education, as well as officials from departments of civil aviation, urban planning, taxation, and information and communication technology attended the forum. It provided a platform for them to exchange views with private sector representatives from financial institutions, engineering and accounting firms, as well as other key industries that would be the main drivers in the global economy.

Secretariat Links:

• Special Advisory Services
• Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation