Guyana looks to strengthen trade relations with Japan

New technologies, food security, and increased trade opportunities are among the key interests as Guyana seeks to strengthen trade relationships with Japan.
A high-level private sector team, led by the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, is set for a three-day visit to Expo 2025, currently being hosted in Osaka, Japan.
Chief Investment Officer and Agency Head of Go-Invest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop, told Ignite News that there is much excitement surrounding the visit, as Guyana aims to strengthen existing ties and forge new business and trade relations with Japan.

Of particular interest are partnerships in food security initiatives and new technologies that support specific industries.
“We’re looking forward to this visit to Japan. Many of the local companies going already have relationships in place. Some are looking to establish new ties with Japan. As you know, we currently export aluminium ore and other ores to Japan—close to US$6 million or so. However, we import almost US$200 million worth of cars, automobile parts, and related goods from Japan, so the trade deficit is significant. With this delegation and other ongoing conversations with the Japanese government, we are looking to expand our trade capacity, particularly in food security and agricultural products.”

Japan also possesses advanced technology in water management systems and other areas of innovation that are of keen interest to Guyana and its local businesses.
Dr Ramsaroop emphasised that the overarching goal of the visit is to provide the local private sector with an opportunity to expand its capacity—both within and outside of Guyana—and to ultimately build global partnerships, increase competitiveness, and broaden trade capabilities internationally.
He further asserted that the Guyana team represents more than just a delegation.
“It is a cornerstone of our national strategy to position Guyana on the global investment map. As we engage with Japanese enterprises and explore innovation-driven sectors, we are also building the foundation for a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and globally integrated.”