GCCI urges govt to stop Corentyne Bridge talks with Suriname over ‘unfriendly actions’

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has called on the Government to halt discussions on the proposed Corentyne River Bridge with Suriname until key bilateral issues are resolved.
The private sector body said the move was necessary in light of what it described as continued unfriendly actions by Suriname, including the recent imposition of high fees for the use of shared waterways.
Guyana, it said, cannot continue to pursue infrastructure projects that could benefit its neighbour while facing measures that undermine economic activity in Berbice.
The chamber also cited longstanding complaints from Guyanese businesses and fishermen about unfair treatment by Surinamese authorities, as well as the influx of counterfeit and illicit goods into Guyana.
It warned that these practices have not only affected local enterprises but have also contributed to unfair competition and potential health risks from banned or unsafe products.
The GCCI further raised concerns over Suriname’s claim to the New River Triangle and referenced the 2000 expulsion of a CGX oil rig from what Guyana maintains are its waters, describing it as part of a broader pattern of behaviour.
It said Guyana should not continue to engage in co-operative initiatives without reciprocity, and urged the Government to prioritise projects that safeguard national interests.