CESO | SACO: Sharing a Lifetime of Experience

Guyana’s private sector faced a tough year in 2009, given the condition of the global economic crisis. Development has been hindered by low productivity levels, outdated technology and infrastructure, environmental challenges and increasing marketplace competition from China and India’s exports, yet Guyana’s economy experienced a growth of 2.3%. CESO and small businesses are working to generate revenue and increase the range of employment opportunities for men and women. CESO is also strengthening partnerships between local associations and supporting government entities that will aid in SME development and advocate on their behalf.

Guyana’s tourism sector has the potential to become a leading player in the Caribbean’s tourism industry. CESO and its partners are working to develop and improve the operating efficiency of hotels and resorts throughout Guyana. One of our partners, the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), is an umbrella body of tourism operations that network with local, regional and international agencies. CESO has joined THAG in a 2010 – 2014 partnership to provide training for its members in tourism and hospitality. THAG is also supporting Amerindian community tourism initiatives in Guyana’s hinterland which extends outside the coastal plain along the Atlantic Ocean.

Guyana’s National Development Strategy calls for agricultural diversification, market-led change and small business development to improve the economy. CESO and the government’s national laboratory are working with other partners to improve services to food processors and enable them to certify their products for distribution in Caribbean and US markets. CESO has partnered with EMPRETEC, which provides SMEs with business development services and opportunities to participate in national development.

The manufacturing sector is considered an important emerging sector in Guyana. Together, CESO and the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association (GMSA) are working to develop work plans in leadership, productivity and manufacturing competitiveness while encouraging business ethics, human rights and environmental practices.CESO also works with the Guyana Arts and Craft Producers Association (GACPA), which provides diverse arts and craft producers with education and training programs to promote business livelihoods and market products internationally.