The irregular ferry service between Suriname and Guyana is, according to Minister Andrew Baasaron of Economische Zaken, Ondernemerschap en Technologische Innovatie (EZOTI), a major obstacle for entrepreneurs in both countries. He advocates reliable transport links to support mutual trade and passenger traffic.
Baasaron spoke with the Communicatie Dienst Suriname (CDS) on Tuesday, October 13, at the opening of the fourth International Business Conference (IBC). During the conference, the reliability of the Canawaima ferry service was among the issues discussed.
According to the minister, entrepreneurs must be able to rely on the ferry operating according to schedule. Cancellations and disruptions cause logistical problems and additional costs. Companies transporting perishable goods in particular depend on a predictable crossing.
“Our entrepreneurs naturally invest. Especially when you have goods that are subject to spoilage, you must be able to rely on being able to make that crossing when you go to the border after driving for three to four hours,” Baasaron said.
According to him, the uncertainty surrounding the service affects companies on both sides of the border. Reliable transport is therefore a necessary condition for stimulating entrepreneurship and economic cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
Government working on structural solution
Baasaron says the transport problems have the government’s explicit attention. According to him, work is being done on a sustainable solution for transport between the two countries. He did not provide further details on the measures or the timeframe within which they must be realised.
In addition to transport, the minister pointed to opportunities for cooperation between Surinamese and Guyanese companies. The IBC brings together entrepreneurs, embassies and government representatives to establish contacts and enter into partnerships.
According to Baasaron, the experience of Guyanese companies in the offshore sector can be valuable for Surinamese enterprises in particular. By working together with companies that have already gone through this development, local entrepreneurs can strengthen their knowledge and services.
The minister stressed that both relatively small economies benefit from closer cooperation. According to him, the conference provides room to expand that cooperation and bring products and services to the attention of potential business partners.
