The American Chamber of Commerce of Suriname (AmCham Suriname) is calling on the government to translate the economic priorities from the annual address into concrete programmes and measurable results. According to the organisation, the opportunities for Suriname should not only lead to more investment and government revenue, but also to stronger local businesses, employment and improved public services.
In a press release dated 4 October, AmCham welcomed the priorities presented by President Jennifer Simons in her annual address for the 2027 fiscal year. The organisation sees particular opportunities in the focus on economic stability, local content, infrastructure, energy, digitalisation and preparations for future oil revenues.
According to AmCham, the main challenge now lies in implementation. The organisation advocates clear responsibilities, measurable objectives, realistic timelines and transparent reporting on policy progress.
Local content must strengthen local earning capacity
AmCham stresses that local content must go beyond creating local jobs and awarding contracts to Surinamese companies. The policy must also contribute to the transfer of knowledge and technology, specialised careers and the development of businesses that can compete internationally.
According to the organisation, this requires targeted investments in education, vocational training and retraining. Cooperation between employers and educational institutions must also be strengthened. International expertise remains important in this regard, provided it is linked to knowledge transfer and the development of Surinamese professionals.
The organisation also supports budget discipline, responsible debt management and broadening government revenues. It must be prevented that financial pressure continues to fall on the same citizens and businesses. Stable and predictable economic policy is essential for investment and sustainable growth, according to AmCham.
Airport, energy and digitalisation
According to AmCham, the announced modernisation of the Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport can contribute to tourism, trade, investment and logistics. In addition to physical infrastructure, attention should also be given to security, operational efficiency, digital systems and the handling of passengers and cargo.
Reliable and affordable energy and faster digital government services are also important conditions for a better business climate. According to the organisation, digitalisation must be noticeable in shorter processing times, simpler procedures, secure information exchange and greater transparency.
AmCham and its American partners are making themselves available to link expertise, technology and investment networks to these priorities. The organisation advocates structured consultations between the government and the business community, including on airport modernisation, energy security and digital transformation.
Other sectors remain important
According to AmCham, preparations for the oil economy must not come at the expense of other economic sectors. Agriculture, tourism, mining, logistics, technology, manufacturing and professional services must remain part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy.
The organisation wants to work with the government, the business community, educational institutions and other partners to turn current opportunities into sustainable economic and social development.
