Companies interested in entering Guyana’s market are encouraged to visit the country because of a preference to conduct business on a face-to-face basis. Firms are also encouraged to conduct rigorous due diligence on any prospective partners and seek out reputable firms with a proven track record. It is important to register your trademarks and protect your intellectual property by consulting with local law firms. Price, quality, and service are the three main factors to consider for the Guyanese market. U.S. exporters should be aware that competition is strong with many regional and international companies present, and buyers expect good after-sales service.
Many U.S. exporters successfully use agents or distributors to serve the Guyanese market. A local partner can expedite the startup phase of a business, assist with regulatory applications and approvals, and facilitate speedier entrance into the market. Furthermore, in the oil and gas sector there may be instances when partnering with a local company is mandatory to comply with the LCA. Guyana’s business community is undergoing a rapid transformation due to the burgeoning oil and gas industry, and joint ventures, partnerships, exclusive arrangements, and franchising agreements are becoming common business practices. The creation of special project vehicles is also becoming a popular arrangement for firms entering Guyana’s market. U.S. businesses need to be cognizant of the prevalence of local businesses with limited access to capital calling for partnerships and joint venture arrangements.
Local business support organizations, such as the American Chamber of Commerce in Guyana and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, can be useful with building relationships and providing connections to business owners in Guyana. U.S. companies are encouraged to attend trade missions, business conferences and webinars to lay the foundation for the development of local connections. When bidding on government procurement tenders, we encourage companies to remain in close touch with all local partners on the ground and follow the tender directions closely.
Marketing and promotion are important. Companies benefit by exhibiting their products or services at local and regional trade shows, as well as at U.S. trade shows attended by Guyanese buyers. The U.S. Commercial Service brings Guyanese buyers to key trade shows in the United States and facilitates B2B matchmaking both in person and virtually. The U.S. Commercial Service also helps organize events for U.S. firms wishing to launch a new product or showcase their know-how in Guyana. The U.S. Commercial Service in Georgetown provides a wide range of services to help U.S. companies enter the market and expand operations in the country.