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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
GUYANA  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON  2 AND 4 MARCH 2022  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Daniela Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 11 April 2022. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
GUYANA  
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 2 ET 4 MARS 2022  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Daniela Salas : danielamaria na.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 11 avril 2022 au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
GUYANA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 2 Y 4 DE MARZO DE 2022  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Daniela Salas : 
danielamariana.salas@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 11 de abril de 2022  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
GUYANA  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF GUYANA  ................................ ..... 5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF GUYANA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  .........  33 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  40 
7  ELECTION OF THE NEW TPRB CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .............................  42 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Guyana are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/422/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fourth  Trade Policy Review of Guyana was held on 2 and 4  March  2022. The Chairper son, 
H.E. Dr  Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana) welcomed the delegation of Guyana, headed by 
Mr Deodat  Indar, Minister of Public Works;  the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Usha  Chandnee  Dwarka -Canabady (Mauritius).  
1.2.  The Chairpe rson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership, in 
particular of officials who could not make the journey from Georgetown given  the current 
circumstances.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Guyana is contained in document WT/TPR/G/422, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/422.  
1.4.  Questions b y the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Singapore; Canada; Costa  Rica; the European  Union; Brazil; the United  States; China; Japan; 
Argentina; and Iceland.  
1.5.  At the time of its previous Review in 2015, Guyana was commended for its initiatives to improve 
infrastructure, which tended to be one of the country's bottlenecks. At the same time, Members had 
encouraged Guyana to continue reforms, including its efforts to diversify its exports and economic 
structure.  
1.6.  In this context , the Chairperson first focused on Guyana's economic developments since its last 
Review. Between 2016 and 2019, real GDP expanded at annual rates ranging from 3.7% to 5.4%. 
The Chairperson noted that Guyana became an exporter of crude oil as the result of successive 
major offshore discoveries of petroleum wells beginning in 2015. Regarding the direction of trade, 
other countries in the Americas dominated Guyana's foreign trade, taking 62% of its exports and 
supplying 70% of its imports in 2020.  
1.7.  The merchan dise trade balance recorded a surplus of USD  434 million in 2020 compared with 
a deficit of USD  315 million in 2015. Guyana is a net  importer of services. The current account 
remained in deficit in 2020 but continued to be covered by significant foreign in vestments offshore.  
1.8.  In response to the COVID -19 pandemic, Guyana took many steps to support the economy and 
mitigate its effect on the population. A Ministerial order was issued granting duty exemption for 
several COVID -19 related products.  
1.9.  The Chairperson was encouraged to read from the Government report prepared for the Review, 
that during the review period Guyana sought to enhance and expand public physical infrastructure, 
through public investment and strategic partnerships; the country a lso sought to diversify the 
economy and create opportunities in all economic sectors.  
1.10.   In the previous Review in 2015, Members welcomed trade facilitation measures that Guyana 
had taken, such as the establishment of a risk assessment unit and the simplified  procedures for 
importing animals and animal products, and had encouraged Guyana to further promote 
competition.  
1.11.   One of the most significant developments since the last Review was the introduction of 
ASYCUDA World, a fully automated customs management sys tem, as Guyana's integrated platform 
for electronic clearance of goods since January  2019.The remainder of Guyana's trade and related 
policies remained largely unchanged. For applied MFN tariff rates, Guyana followed the Common 
External Tariff of the Carib bean Community, resulting in a simple average tariff of 12.6% in 2020, 
compared with 12.1% in 2014. At the last TPR of Guyana, Members had raised questions on many 
issues, several of which were raised again in the context of the current Review. These inclu ded 
outstanding WTO notifications, business environment, government procurement, and intellectual 
property.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  1.12.   During the current Review, there was also significant interest in regional and bilateral 
agreements, incentives, and competition policy and price c ontrols.  
1.13.   Guyana received 162  advance written questions from 10  delegations for the current Review, 
the questions covered a broad range of topics. Guyana had responded in writing to most of these 
questions, and the Chairperson was looking forward to hearin g Guyana's updates on these issues.in 
the two -day meeting.  
1.14.   The meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. It was also an opportune 
moment  for Guyana to update the Membership on the impact of COVID -19 on its economy and 
measures it had taken in response. The Chairperson was looking forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.15.   The Chairperson closed her introductory remarks by wishing Guyana a very succes sful 
fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF GUYANA (H.E.  MR DEODAT  INDAR)  
2.1.  Allow me to welcome you all to this fourth  Trade Policy Review of Guyana. My thanks to the 
World Trade Organisation 's (WTO) Secretariat for the assistance and support rendered to my country 
over the years. I acknowledge and express our appreciation for the remarkable work done by the 
Trade Policy Review team that has been involved in this exercise that culminated into t he generation 
of the report.  
2.2.  Unlike Guyana's previous TPRs, this one was conducted virtually in its entirety due to the 
ongoing COVID -19 pandemic. I also would like to express my appreciation to those member 
countries that have read through the draft repo rt and posed constructive questions to improve the 
quality of the content and information contained therein. I especially extend Guyana's gratitude to 
the member States of the Caribbean Community for their support in our contribution to advance our 
integra tion agenda through trade.  
The effect of the COVID -19 pandemi c 
2.3.  As we go through this review process it is important to remember that the COVID -19 pandemic 
persists. Guyana, like every other country did not escape the scare , and the social and economic 
consequences of the pandemic. It is appreciated by all that besides the obvious public health 
consequences, COVID -19 also had and continues to have severe disruptive effects on economic 
production and trade especially on the regional and international supply c hains. Trade in both goods 
and services was seriously impacted due to lockdown of economic activity by all countries. The 
negative effects of this economic lockdown will continue to impact the globe for a long time to come. 
It is against this backdrop that  this Trade Policy Review is being conducted.  
Government priority areas 
2.4.  Since the last Trade Policy Review in 2015, there was transition of leadership in Guyana in 
August  2020 when a new Government assumed office. Accordingly, the current Government is bei ng 
guided by a new vison to transform the lives of the people of Guyana through robust economic 
policies that have since been adopted. This transformation is founded on our updated low carbon 
development strategy. Key priorities for the Government include sustainable economic growth based 
on a diversified, competitive, and resilient productive base that is keen on creating jobs and 
employment to stimulate and spur entrepreneurial activity in the population and equipping them 
with relevant skills to promote economic transformation.  
2.5.  Our government  is focusing on infrastructural transformation and development with particular 
attention on value added processes in the agricultural sector and extractive sectors. Infrastructural 
transformations is also  prevalent in the energy and transport  sectors . Guyana continues to add 
significant amount of resources and infrastructure to deal with the adaptation measures to combat 
the effects of climate change. Development of the services sector focusing on both the economic 
and social services to sustain a modern economy is also high on our government's agenda. Guyana 
continue s to witness increased interest from investors and new investment projects are being 
undertaken and we welcome additional investors in support of the tran sformation of our economy.  
The oil and gas sector  
2.6.  Since the last Trade Policy Review, Guyana has embarked on the exploitation and export of its 
petroleum resources and the Government continues to develop the nascent oil and gas sector for 
the benefit of a ll the people of Guyana. Due to the development of this new sector, Guyana has 
registered a positive trade balance in the recent years after many years of deficit trading. This trend 
is expected to continue as the country benefits from increased revenue fr om oil and gas sector as a 
result of ramped up production. In this regard, the government has enacted key regulatory measures 
designed to manage the sector and create necessary synergies with the other sectors of the 
economy.  
2.7.  The development of the oil and gas sector notwithstanding, Guyana is keen on building a low 
carbon economy that relies less on fossil fuels, and increase use and focus on renewable energy, 
especially solar, wind as well as hydro energy sources. The Governm ent of Guyana therefore is 
embarking on a deliberate policy that is aimed at ensuring that the development of the oil and gas 
sector in tandem with the development and strengthening of the renewable energy sector. Guyana 
has also taken a deliberate policy position that the traditional sectors of our economy in particular WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  agriculture, forestry, fisheries , minerals, services , and tourism would remain as priorities on the 
economic agenda.  
Guyana Free Trade Agreements and Preferential Trading Arrangements  
2.8.  Guyan a is party to several free trade agreements where products originating from Guyana are 
accorded duty free and quota free access to the various markets, including the countries of the 
Caribbean  Community, the European  Union, and the United  Kingdom. Products  from Guyana also 
continue to receive preferential access into the US and Canadian markets. The Government is also 
exploring avenues to create relationships that will open market opportunities in other parts of the 
world, especially Asia and the Middle  East.  
2.9.  In view of these existing preferential market access opportunities, the Government is keen on 
investing in value addition, especially in the extractive and agro -processing industries, trade in 
services as well as in information and communication techno logy, among other sectors. Guyana is a 
low-lying coastal state that is vulnerable to climate change and extreme weather conditions, 
including flooding. Accordingly, there is always need for significant investments aimed at achieving 
greater climate resilie nce. 
2.10.   There is economic expansion across the board in all economic sectors and the Government 
needs strategic partners to sustain these processes. Despite the negative impact on the economy 
due to the COVID -19 pandemic, as well as the impact of the floods i n the recent past, our country 
is expected to remain among the fastest growing economies worldwide. In 2022 Guyana has 
projected growth of 47%, the highest in the world and we invite bilateral partners to be part of this 
process.  
Guyana WTO commitments an d participation  
2.11.   The Government wishes to highlight the fact that Guyana has been and continues on the 
course in implementing its WTO commitments, including the Trade Facilitation Agreement, where 
the implementation rate is at over 80%. The implementation o f this agreement is a strong signal 
that Guyana is keen to remove impediments that affect the smooth flow of trade across its borders. 
Guyana is also actively involved in the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement negotiations, and it is our hope 
that this agreemen t will be concluded by member States soon. This agreement is critical for us since 
it not only addresses sustainable fishing, but it also provides a lifeline for our fisherfolk engaged in 
the fishing industry.  
2.12.   We are also following keenly, other issues at the WTO, especially those that were being 
addressed under the Doha Development Round which has long since stalled. Our government  
recognises the need for reforming the WTO to make the Organisation fairer and more equitable in 
its operations towards small v ulnerable economies. I want to reiterate Guyana 's support for a 
rules-based multilateral trade agenda that promotes and practices fair trade for all countries, small 
and big. Our government  will support any endeavour towards this direction, especially as w e all look 
forward to rebuilding our economies after the pandemic.  
2.13.   Guyana has noted that several member countries have raised issues highlighting areas where 
more c ould have been done to fulfil specific obligations under the existing multilateral framework . 
While we acknowledge this, I wish to state that these shortcomings were due largely to the country 's 
capacity constraints that have overwhelmed our system over the years. Our assurance is that the 
Government of Guyana will have those deficiencies address ed as a matter of priority. In this regard 
the Government is undertaking necessary measures designed to enhance capacity in the relevant 
areas so that it meets its obligations as and when such obligations fall due. It is my hope that other 
issues raised fo r clarification by distinguished member States will be satisfactorily addressed during 
this Review.  
Conclusion  
2.14.   Chair and Excellencies, it has been my pleasure to give this brief background to my country 's 
fourth  WTO Trade Policy Review. This exercise reaff irms Guyana 's support and commitment to the 
multilateral trade process that includes transparency with trade policy information. Guyana has 
always been and remains an open economy that welcomes trade and investment from all partners 
within existing rules. As it may have been noted and observed from the report, Guyana  is a young 
economy but with great potential on invested resources. The Government is determined to develop WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  and strengthen relevant rules to promote international trade, while at the same time protecting all 
stakeholders involved at different levels of the global value chains.  
2.15.   Once again allow me to thank all of you who have been part of the process. Your prese nce 
and participation at this stage of the Review is a gratifying indicator of the interest by your respective 
countries in engaging and dealing with Guyana. Thus, we look forward to continued engagement for 
the mutual benefit of our respective countries.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  I would like to echo the words of the Chair, Ambassador Athalia h Molokom me, in expressing a 
very warm welcome to the distinguished delegation of Guyana led by Hon ourable Deodat  Indar, 
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works and to congratulate Guyana on its fourth  Trade Policy 
Review and also to recognize the Director of For eign Trade, Ms  Bevon Mc  Donald and the Charg é 
d'Affaires of Guyana in Geneva, our friend Ms Kerrlene  Wills, and her team who enrich our 
discussions by being very active members of the ACP Group in Geneva.  
3.2.  I thank the Government of Guyana and the WTO Secre tariat for their reports which provided 
valuable information in understanding the progress that Guyana has made during the period under 
review and how its trade policy has been evolving.  
3.3.  Let me turn now to the substance of these reports to try and capture the main thrust of 
developments in Guyana since 2015, and share some observations on Guyana 's achievements and 
challenges to activate Members ' discussions during this fourth  Review.   
The economic environment  
3.4.  Guyana has known a steady economic growth in th e past decade, including the review period, 
with an annual growth rate higher than the average in the region during the same period.  
3.5.  Guyana 's real GDP grew from 3.7% in 2016 to 5.4% in 2019. In 2020, a real oil GDP growth 
rate of 43.48% was registered. Th is compensated a 7.3% real non -oil GDP contraction, due to the 
adverse effects of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
3.6.  This rise in real oil GDP is principally attributed to early revenue from the gas and oil sector. 
Besides oil and gas, gold and bauxite , and other prod ucts of mining and quarrying have driven the 
economy. Mining and quarrying accounted for 27.1% of GDP in 2020 as compared to 9.3% in 2015.  
3.7.  In the recent past, the extractive industry is deemed to have overtaken the agricultural sector 
which is dominated by  rice and sugar production principally exported to the European  Union. The 
loss of preferences over time, specially for sugar, has resulted in a drop in revenue from agricultural 
commodities.  
3.8.  Guyana however retains strong potential for growth in agricultur e and continues to make 
significant investments in the sector focusing on value addition and agro -processing. Initiatives such 
as the registration of five  geographically indicated products including sugar, rum, and molasses will 
provide these commodities with added protection whilst making the products more competitive 
internationally.  At the end of 2020, agriculture accounted for 27.2% of non -oil GDP and 21.3% of 
non-oil exports.  
3.9.  At the regional level, Guyana has lead responsibility within CAR ICOM for agriculture, agriculture 
diversification , and food security. Following a proposal from the President of Guyana, 
H.E. Dr Mohamed  Irfaan  Ali, a special ministerial taskforce on food production and food security has 
been established to monitor a stra tegy that would deliver on a modern and highly efficient production 
and distribution system that responds to the needs of the region. We see this as a first  step of 
Guyana 's vision to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean. Interestingly, whilst COVID has had  adverse 
effects on major sectors, agriculture seems to have been less impacted upon.  
3.10.   Services in Guyana accounted for 38.9% of GDP in 2020. Guyana 's current trade policy aims 
at developing a dynamic services sector as a springboard for other economic sect ors. During the 
period under review, the Government sought to strengthen the trade in services sector through 
various initiative including the revitalization of the coalition of service providers and developing 
targeted legislations for specific services i ncluding architects and engineers.  
3.11.   During this same period, Guyana also introduced regulatory changes and adopted significant 
pieces of legislation related to Financial Services, Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the 
Financing of Terrorism Act  (2015), t he Deposit Insurance Act  (2018), the Insurance (Amendment) 
Act 2018. It also adopted the Civil Aviation Act 2018 in the air transport sector and signed several 
bilateral air agreements with its trading partners.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  3.12.   The country is a net importer of manufacture d goods. Manufacturing accounts for 4.2% of 
GDP but importantly for 10.2% of employment. An interesting initiative in this area is the "Guyana 
Green Industry and Trade Assessment", conducted by UNIDO with the aim of supporting the 
Government's. design and implementation of opportunities for green manufacturing, greening 
selected value chains, and environmentally sustainable practices in industrial estates in Guyana over 
the next few years.  
3.13.   Guyana has also traditionally benefited from the support of its expa triate community of 
around 500,000  people through remittances which contribute to foreign exchange revenue. This 
amounted to USD  425.7  million in 2020.  
3.14.   According to the Secretariat report, the significant increase in Guyana 's current account deficit 
in 201 8-2019 was entirely due to the ongoing investments offshore and which are financed with 
foreign capital.  
Pandemic  
3.15.   No country has been left untouched by the pandemic and Guyana believes that the impact of 
same is expected to be more severe than originally a nticipated. Growth slowed down as a result of 
the closure of major sectors including wholesale and retail trade, tourism and the services sector. 
The sectors that remained open operated below capacity. Remittance levels from the diaspora also 
dropped whils t investments in non -oil sectors stalled. Government has been prompt in providing 
relief to the consumer and businesses.  
3.16.   The re -opening of the Guyanese economy and the expansion and diversification of non -oil 
sectors including agriculture, fisheries and ma nufacturing is expected to bring a further boost to GDP 
growth and a consolidation of the economy.  
3.17.   Although now an oil producing nation, Guyana, must still be understood as a small and 
vulnerable economy with a narrow export base. The country 's efforts to  diversify its production, 
lessen dependence on a high level of imports to meet the needs of its people, add value to its 
domestic products, grow its services sector and deepen its integration in the region must be seen 
from this perspective.  
Fiscal policy  
3.18.   We note that Guyana 's fiscal policy remains cautious and geared towards long term stability, 
a sustained non -inflationary growth and a Guyana dollar not subject to significant fluctuations. The 
strengthening and streamlining of value added tax (VAT) administration during the review period 
has further modernized Guyana 's tax regime. VAT is set at 14%.  
3.19.   Between 2015 -2020, annual inflation in Guyana did not exceed 2.09% according to the 
Secretariat report. The Bank of Guyana has maintained a stable bank r ate whilst accommodating 
relief measures in the face of the COVID -19 Pandemic.  
3.20.   The International Monetary Fund  (IMF) notes that the country legally maintains a floating 
exchange rate although it is a de facto stabilized arrangement with foreign exchange r ate 
interventions.  
3.21.   Guyana has exercised prudent debt management thus bringing about a debt to GDP ratio 
decline to 47% in 2020. Debt dynamics are expected to improve significantly as oil production steps 
up.  
3.22.   Guyana is on the verge of being the largest oi l producing country in the world on a per  capita 
basis and has been ranked as among the top five fastest growing economies in the world. But the 
country remains clearly conscious that the anticipated revenue from oil exports must be judiciously 
managed and  used in the most productive manner possible to further the development of the country 
and must be preserved for future generations.  
3.23.   The creation of the Natural Resource Fund in 2019, under the purview of the Bank of Guyana, 
goes in this direction. The ob jective is to ensure that the volatility associated with natural resource 
revenue does not lead to irresponsible or loss of economic competitiveness and that the natural WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  resource wealth is transferred across generations to finance national development prio rities and 
establish an inclusive green economy. It is understood that the World Bank is providing technical 
support for the first three years of the NRF under its Reserve Advisory and Management Partnership 
Facility. Although it is reported that the NRF i s operational, it is not clear whether the Investment 
Committee that would actively manage the NRF has now been set up.  
Investment and Trade  
3.24.   Most of Guyana 's trade is dependent on preferential trade arrangements with partner 
countries such as the EU, the UK, the United  States amongst others. Guyana and many CARICOM 
countries also have a free trade agreement with several Latin  American countries such as Cuba, 
Costa  Rica, Dominican  Republic, Colombia , and the Bolivarian  Republic of Venezuela . It also has a 
partial scope agreement with Brazil. It is not clear whether the FTA negotiations with Canada are 
still being pursued.  
3.25.   It is to be noted that Guyana has an entrenched public-private partnership as exemplified by 
the National Advisory Committee for External Negotiations  (NACEN) which influences trade related 
policy. With the support of UNCTAD, Guyana has commenced work on updating its current trade 
strategy with a view to developing a p olicy framework that takes on board Guyana 's new oil and gas 
sector.  
3.26.   Until 2018, foreign direct investment in Guyana was typically in the order of USD  100 million 
to USD  250 million per year in various sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, to urism, 
information and communication, education , and other services. The principal recipient for 
investments is now the 6.6 -million -acre Stabroek Block where recoverable reserves are estimated 
to exceed 9  billion  barrels of oil equivalent. More investments  in this direction can be expected as 
the Payara project gets underway by 2024.  
3.27.   The delegation of Guyana may wish to share thoughts on its future trade and investment 
strategy including any thoughts on developing domestic oil refining capacity.  
3.28.   Guyana acti vely encourages investments with a view to diversifying and consolidating the 
economy, further developing the services sector and modernizing infrastructure. It is noted, 
however, that since the last review, there have been no major changes in the legal fr amework for 
business and investment in Guyana.  
3.29.   The Investment Act, as it stands, provides for all fields of lawful economic activity to be open 
to investors except for investment prejudicial to national security, the natural environment, public 
health or i n contravention of Guyana 's laws. There is no discrimination between private foreign or 
domestic investors and the authorities affirm that foreign investors also have equal access to 
opportunities arising from privatization of state-owned companies. There is also no legislation 
regulating minimum or maximum ownership in a partnership or joint venture or minimum capital 
requirements for the establishment of any type of company.  
3.30.   However, the Minister of Finance retains the discretion of excluding sectors from  investment 
subject to the affirmative resolution of the National Assembly. This discretion has however not been 
exercised to date.  
3.31.   In the mining sector, investment in small and medium sized operations is restricted to 
domestic investors only. This can be  viewed as part of the philosophy that seeks to support small 
entrepreneurs. Concern in Guyana about inclusivity and the integration of small businesses was 
addressed through the Small Businesses Amendment Act of 2021 which mandates that at least 20% 
of the goods, services and works procured annually should be supplied by small businesses.  
3.32.   The Small Business Bureau administers the Micro and Small Enterprise Development Program, 
the Green Business Technology Fund and the Small Business COVID relief programm e. 
900 businesses are registered with the SBB and some 10,000  clients are deemed to have benefited 
from its programmes and services. It would be interesting to learn how small businesses have 
benefited in practice through the SBB programs and from the proc urement facility as contained in 
the Small Business Amendment Act  (2021).  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  3.33.   The authorities in Guyana state that no trade related investment measures  (TRIM s) are 
applied in the country. The current requirements for hiring at least 80% of staff locally applies to 
both domestic and foreign investment projects. The Government does however have a draft local 
content policy for the oil and gas sector currently under review that refers to transfer of knowledge 
and enhancing quality training on which the deleg ation may wish to share more information.  
3.34.   As Guyana 's economy begins to expand and measures are taken to facilitate the conduct of 
business, there is little reason why Guyana cannot be in the first -hundred countries in the future 
World  Bank reports on Ease  of Doing Business.  
3.35.   Indeed, the ongoing investments to modernize and develop new economic infrastructure can 
only improve the business environment. Guyana has already made significant efforts to improve its 
connectivity though the modernisation and expans ion of its international airport at Timehri. Work is 
also being undertaken to improve and expand the road network that will help Guyana strategize the 
development of its tourist industry and facilitate access to the port city of Georgetown. The 
Guyana -Suriname bridge is another indication of the connectivity focus.  
3.36.   From a digital perspective, the Government has invested significantly in national 
telecommunications to bridge the digital divide between the hinterland and the coast and of course 
between Guyan a and other countries. The E-Government Project concluded in 2015 but has been 
expanded, bringing about 55  LTE (4G) towers, 1  satellite ground station supporting 
91 satellites  (VSAT) and 227  kms of fibre amongst other things. With the completion of the National 
Broadband Project, Guyana has launched in 2021 its Safecity initiative aimed at combatting crime.  
3.37.   The privatization programme of Guyana was initiated in 2002 and saw the divestment of 20% 
of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph in 2013. The 30  year mo nopoly on landline services and the 
international gateway was removed in October  2020 with licences granted to two  companies.  
3.38.   It is also noted that the maritime port terminals are independently owned and operated mainly 
by the private sector and with limit ed state investment.  
Trade facilitation  
3.39.   Guyana is committed to the multilateral trading system and has always expressed its views 
clearly in the WTO on a host of issues from the Doha Development Round, the moratorium on 
electronic commerce, the fisheries a nd agriculture negotiations and WTO reform.  
3.40.   We congratulate Guyana for the steps it has taken to foster trade facilitation reform and for 
submitting the requisite notifications under the Trade facilitation Agreement to the WTO. We note 
from the Government 's Report that the rate of implementation under the TFA stands at 83.2%. We 
also acknowledge the development of a roadmap to be implemented by the National Committee on 
Trade Facilitation. We note that Guyana already has nine project proposals under TF to facilitate 
implementation of each C measure and that the country has successfully mobilized support under 
the WTO 's TFAF (Trade Facilitation Agreement Facility) Grant Programme for this purpose.  
3.41.   We also note that measures are being instituted to allow for the operation of a single electronic 
window to execute customs procedures at the border.  
3.42.   Guyana has submitted various notifications to the WTO during the notification period mainly 
relating to regional trade agreements and technical barriers to trade. We u nderstand that there may 
be need to build further capacity on the domestic front to facilitate notifications that are overdue at 
the WTO.  
3.43.   We also note that Guyana is aware that its applied MFN rates exceed the corresponding bound 
rates for 16  tariff lines and that a document is in progress for presentation to Parliament with a view 
to addressing this issue.  
3.44.   We are further informed that Legislation on anti -dumping, countervailing and safeguard 
measures is also being drafted currently. We also encourage the notification of the customs valuation 
legislation to the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  3.45.   It is not clear whether Guyana now provides any subsidies to its enterprises as the last 
notification dating back to 2016 to the WTO Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures 
indicates no such subsidy.  
Environmental Services and the Low Carbon Development Strategy  
3.46.   Guyana 's efforts to promote sustainability through the Low Carbon Development 
Strategy  2030 deserves special mention. The Strategy aims at decoupling economic growth with the 
use of fossil fuels and keeping gas emissions low by providing affordable and reliable energy through 
newly installed capacity whilst reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels for electricity 
generation. This strategy is to be implemented between 2023 -2026. We also note the promotion of 
investments in alternative sources of renewable energy such as solar, hydro , and biofuels.  
3.47.   On the domestic front, Guyana is seeking to reduce the disparity in access to energy between 
coastal areas and remote hinterland and riverine communities. Clean energy development is a 
priority as is repairing coastal and hinterland climate protection infrastructure. We recall that 
Guyana 's coastland where most of the country 's economic activities take place, lies below s ea level. 
Climate change for this low -lying country is a matter of survival.  
3.48.   To advance the Low Carbon Development Strategy, Guyana has integrated its rainforest in a 
global carbon credit scheme with the United  Nations Framework Convention and Climate Chan ge 
(UNFCC) under the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation  (REDD) mechanism. 
The Guyanese authorities and the Guyana Forestry Commission, in particular, have placed high 
emphasis on Forest Governance in support of sustainable management. It  is very interesting that 
Guyana is now pursuing a market -based mechanism for payment of forest climate services and that 
Guyana has also commenced a national Forestry Inventory as an important tool for planning 
purposes and for resource allocation. This i nventory will be completed this year.  
3.49.   Guyana started negotiating the conclusion of the European Union Forest Law Enforcement 
Governance and Trade Voluntary Partnership Agreement in 2018 and it would be interesting to learn 
of progress made ahead of its fin alization in 2026.  
3.50.   Reconciling the decarbonization of the oil and gas sector with the Low Carbon Strategy should 
be an interesting venture and certainly one where the global community would wish to see Guyana 
succeed.  
3.51.   At regional level, Guyana 's ambition is to use the potential for the generation of hydro -power 
to export energy to neighbouring countries. We note in particular the Amaila Falls Hydropower 
Project and the Gas to Power Project that the Guyana Wind Farm Project is pending. From the big ger 
things measures to the smaller measures, we note that Guyana applies an environmental levy on 
beverages sold in non -returnable containers.  
3.52.   Under the Green Technology Fund, individual grants up to GYD  1 million may be awarded to 
12 entrepreneurs each ye ar for the development of green ideas and solutions. These entrepreneurs 
may also look to the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Council to be set up this year for 
advancing their ideas. The Council will no doubt also act as a spur for Guyana to acce de to WIPO 
administered treaties.  
3.53.   In concluding, I would like to say to the delegation " dear land of Guyana, of rivers and plains " 
you are now an oil producing nation and when your fifth  Trade Policy Review comes around, we may 
be having very different rep orts from the ones in front of us. We wish you all the very best and much 
success in the years to come.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
SINGAPORE  
4.1.  Let me begin by conveying my warm greetings to Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister within the Ministry 
of Public Works and his d elegation. We thank Guyana for its comprehensive Government Report and 
statement. We also thank the Chair, discussant Ambassador  Usha Chandnee  Dwarka -Canabady , as 
well as the Secretariat for their insightful reports and statements. Allow me to make three points.  
4.2.  First, Singapore commends Guyana 's economic diversification efforts in developing its 
non-traditional sectors including the services sector, tourism, alternative energy , and information 
technology. We note from the government Report that Guya na is in the process of preparing key 
legislations to strengthen its services sectors including professions such as architects and engineers. 
In this context, Guyana may wish to consider participating in the WTO JSI on Services Domestic 
Regulation, which a ims to reduce administrative costs for service providers. Taking such a step will 
help support the reform of Guyana 's services sector and enhance its competitiveness.  
4.3.  We also commend Guyana 's efforts to develop robust digital infrastructure as a foundatio n for 
national development, innovation, and economic and social empowerment. Guyana has 
unequivocally supported the permanent extension of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic 
transmission. In a similar vein, we encourage Guyana to consider joini ng the WTO Information 
Technology Agreement (ITA) and the JSI on E -Commerce, both of which will contribute towards 
strengthening and growing Guyana 's ICT and e -commerce sectors.  
4.4.  Second, Singapore welcomes the healthy state of bilateral trade relations with  Guyana and 
supports the Government 's trade facilitation initiatives. Singapore 's bilateral trade with Guyana 
enjoyed strong growth even during the pandemic period. Our bilateral trade in goods doubled in 
2021 while trade in services in 2020 expanded three -fold year -on-year. In 2021, Guyana became 
Singapore 's 12th largest trading partner in Latin  America while Singapore was Guyana 's top seven 
export destination in 2020.  
4.5.  We are also encouraged by Guyana 's efforts to implement trade facilitation reforms and 
accelerate the implementation of its commitments made in the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement 
(TFA). Guyana currently has an implementation rate of 83.2% under the TFA and its government 
Report indicated that there are ongoing discussions to further raise the implementation rate. In this 
connection, the communication on "Supporting the Timely and Efficient Release of Global Goods 
through Accelerated Implementation of the WTO TFA " (G/TFA/W/25), which highlights some of the 
articles that have proven critical during the pandemic, may be of interest to Guyana.  
4.6.  Third, we look forward to continuing working with Guyana to strengthen the WTO. We share 
the same commitment to restore confidence in the multilateral trading system and ensure that the 
WTO is fit for purp ose for the 21st century. In addition to the JSIs on E -Commerce and Services 
Domestic Regulation, Singapore would also encourage Guyana to participate in the JSI on 
Investment Facilitation for Development, which would complement its ongoing efforts on attr acting 
investments.  
4.7.  In conclusion, Singapore is confident that Guyana is poised to sustain its strong economic 
growth and will continue leverage on its WTO membership to complement trade its policy objectives. 
I wish Guyana every success for its fourth TPR . Allow me to take this opportunity to put on record 
our appreciation to you the Chair, Ambassador Athaliah  Lesiba  Molokomme , for your sterling 
chairmanship of the Trade Policy Review Body, and to wish your successor, 
Ambassador  Ángel Villalobos, all the very best as he takes over this important responsibility.  
CANADA  
4.8.  Before delivering our statement for this TPR, I would like to state that Canada strongly 
condemns the egregious attack on Ukraine. These unprovoked attacks are a clear vio lation of 
sovereignty, territorial integrity , and existing obligations under international law.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.9.  For the purpose of today 's meeting, Canada joins other WTO Members in welcoming the 
Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar and the other members of the delegation from Guya na. We are pleased 
to participate in the fourth  Trade Policy Review (TPR) of Guyana. We thank the Government of 
Guyana and the Secretariat of the WTO for their reports.   
4.10.   I would like to begin by acknowledging the budget tabled by Guyana in January, which 
demonstrates Guyana 's commitment to invest revenue from the oil and gas sector to modernize 
healthcare, education, critical infrastructure , and streamline investment channels while improving 
the competitiveness of the non -oil economy.  
4.11.   We note that Guyana has room to improve the ease of doing business in the country. Canada 
is very encouraged to see Guyana take concrete steps in that direction. These efforts will facilitate 
trade and encourage greater participation in the multilateral trading system. I woul d like to highlight 
two recent initiatives from Guyana to encourage and facilitate trade and investment.  
4.12.   First, Guyana 's announcement that it will implement an Electronic Single Window System for 
approval of building permits which streamlines market entry for prospective firms looking to enter 
the Guyanese market.  
4.13.   Second, the reduction of import tariffs, excise taxes, and value -added tax paid on imported 
commodities until the end of 2022, which will improve access and affordability for Guyana businesses 
to imported products. We welcome these changes and hope that these reductions will be prolonged 
and increased to further stimulate trade and investment opportunities in Guyana.  
4.14.   We are also pleased to see Guyana 's strong economic growth and commitment to bala nce the 
expansion of the oil and gas sector with environmental considerations by establishing a Low Carbon 
Development Strategy (LCDS) to develop low -carbon energy resources. Canada shares Guyana 's 
view that universal access to reliable electricity is esse ntial to economic development. Guyana 's 
focus on simultaneously pivoting to renewable and sustainable energy generation is ambitious and 
commendable.  
4.15.   With respect to Guyana 's participation at the WTO, we observe that there is a significant 
number of notif ications that have not been submitted by Guyana, including with respect to 
agriculture, subsidies, state trading enterprises, quantitative restrictions, and import licensing. We 
invite Guyana to address this situation as soon as possible, including through  requests for the able 
assistance always provided by the WTO Secretariat. On a more positive note, Canada welcomes 
Guyana 's support for the Ministerial Declaration on the Advancement of Gender Equality and 
Women 's Economic Empowerment within Trade. This is  an important cooperative effort and Canada 
looks forward to partnership with Guyana and other WTO Members to ensure its implementation. 
Canada also encourages Guyana to consider becoming involved in the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structured Di scussions.  
4.16.   Canada and Guyana have a close trading relationship, strengthened by a large diaspora, and 
the recently inaugurated Canada -Guyana Chamber of Commerce. Canadian companies have taken 
note of Guyana 's growth potential and are interested in becoming  investment partners; they 
continue to explore new opportunities for commercial engagement in priority sectors.  
4.17.   Guyana 's recently legislated Local Content Policy prioritizes Guyanese nationals and 
companies in the procurement of goods and services, which we recognize should encourage the 
creation of industries that benefit the social and economic development of Guyana. That said, we 
have questions about how the framework within the Local Content Policy might affect existing joint 
ventures and create additi onal barriers to foreign investment. It is our hope that this will not be the 
case, and that Canada and Guyana can continue to work harmoniously to promote local people and 
businesses.  
4.18.   We have submitted questions on some of the themes I have touched upon, and other issues. 
We thank Guyana for its responses, which we will carefully review. We look forward to a constructive 
exchange of views on all aspects of Guyana 's trade policy.  
4.19.   Finally, I wish to thank the Chair for her able work and welcome her as Chair of the Dispute 
Settlement Body.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  COSTA  RICA 
4.20.   Esta tarde me complace saludarles, darles la bienvenida a Ginebra de manera presencial y 
virtual, y felicitar a Guyana en su cuarto examen de política comercial. Este ejercicio de transparencia 
conlleva un trabajo minucioso y exhaustivo y los informes presentados por el Gobierno examinado 
así como la Secretaría demuestran que ese nivel de excelencia prevalece.  
4.21.   Distinguidos colegas, despué s de dos de los años más difíciles que hemos tenido que atravesar 
como humanidad en épocas recientes, poco a poco empezamos a ver señales esperanzadoras que 
anuncian el inicio de la recuperación.  
4.22.   Con esa nota positiva es que me complace iniciar mi interven ción recordando que Guyana es 
un país rico en naturaleza, con uno de los niveles de biodiversidad más altos del planeta. Es hogar 
para ecosistemas complejos y aún intactos y cuencas hidrográficas de incalculable valor que 
comunidades indígenas protegen y r esguardan junto con la vasta diversidad de plantas y animales 
que las habitan. Este espíritu lo vemos reflejado en el esfuerzo de Guyana de procurar el 
cumplimiento de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible y de incorporar prácticas y políticas 
económicas amigables con el medio ambiente, en su transición hacia una economía más verde.  
4.23.   Sin embargo, Guyana tiene una fuerte dependencia hacia los combustibles fósiles, entre otros, 
dado que todo el crudo que producen es exportado. Indudablemente, en una economía con una 
intensa actividad extractiva, la volatilidad de los precios del petróleo es un elemento presente en la 
elaboración de su política fiscal.  
4.24.   Para continuar progresando hacia una economía verde, instamos a Guyana a considerar 
posibles alternativas que  permitan reducir progresivamente su dependencia de los combustibles 
fósiles, así como a patrocinar y participar activamente en las iniciativas conjuntas en materia de 
sostenibilidad actualmente en curso. Costa  Rica es fiel creyente en la capacidad de los países en 
desarrollo de aportar soluciones basadas en naturaleza y en ese sentido, el potencial de Guyana es 
indiscutible. El área de servicios presenta una valiosa oportunidad a explorar, por ejemplo en materia 
ambiental y de cadenas de valor verdes.  
4.25.   Bajo este argumento, Costa  Rica reconoce que para economías pequeñas y en desarrollo, y 
sobre todo, dependientes del comercio internacional, aún hay retos pendientes. Por eso nos 
congratulamos de compartir con Guyana y el CARICOM un tratado de libre comercio que, a nivel 
bilateral, entró en vigor desde el año 2006, y que nos ha permitido complementar nuestro comercio 
y ofrecer preferencias arancelarias tanto con materias primas producidas en Guyana, como con 
productos agrícolas y preparaciones alimenticias cos tarricenses, por citar un par de ejemplos.  
4.26.   Por otra parte, felicitamos a Guyana por su ratificación del Acuerdo de Facilitación de Comercio 
y por su cumplimiento con la notificación de las categorías A, B y C. Sin embargo, ciertas 
notificaciones en materia  de agricultura, empresas comerciales del estado, medidas sanitarias y 
fitosanitarias, entre otros, aún se encuentran pendientes. Hacemos un llamado a Guyana a fortalecer 
el pilar de transparencia de esta Organización y ponerse al día con sus notificacione s. 
4.27.   Mi delegación presentó una serie de preguntas en el área de competencia, las cuáles 
agradecemos a la delegación de Guyana haber respondido. Hemos remitido estas respuestas a 
capital para su análisis y en caso de requerir mayor detalle, estaremos haciénd olo por el canal 
respectivo.  
4.28.   Excelencias, estimados colegas, quiero agradecer a la Secretaría por el impecable trabajo 
realizado, y deseo extender mi felicitación a Guyana por la exitosa presentación de su cuarto  examen 
de política comercial.  
4.29.   Ministro  Indar, Encargada de Negocios  Wills, reciban el cariño sincero de mi delegación hacia 
la delegación de Guyana y a todo su equipo en Ginebra.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.30.   The EU condemns in the strongest possible terms the invasion of Ukraine by the armed forces 
of the Russian  Federation. We call on the Russia n Federation  immediately to end its acts of 
aggression and we stand firmly by Ukraine and its people.  
4.31.   I would like to welcome the delegation of Guyana led by the Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar , 
Minister  of Public Works.  I would also like to thank the Government of Guyana and the WTO 
Secretariat for their reports, which form the basis of our discussion today. Let me extend our 
appreciation to the discussant, Ambassador of Mauritius, Mrs  Usha Dwarka -Canabady for the 
introd uction of the main developments in Guyana 's economy and trade policies since the country 's 
last Trade Policy Review.  
4.32.   The EU welcomes this opportunity to discuss such developments. We also welcome that since 
its last Trade Policy Review, Guyana has establi shed a mission to the WTO.  
4.33.   A healthy rules -based multilateral trade system is especially important for countries like 
Guyana, where imports and exports of goods and services represented respectively 74% and 51% 
of Guyana's GDP according to recent data for  2020. The important oil discoveries and the beginning 
of exploitation have led to an impressive average annual GDP growth by 43% in 2020, forecasted 
also to reach double -digit figures in 2021 and 2022. Guyana 's exceptional economic growth can 
certainly co ntribute to new trade and investments opportunities.  
4.34.   We appreciate the excellent bilateral relationship between the EU and the Guyana that is 
based on fundamental commitment to democratic values. The EU is Guyana 's fifth export 
destination. The EU -CARIFOR UM Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) remains the cornerstone 
of the EU -Guyana trade relationship. Provisionally in force since 2008, it ensures duty and quota 
free access to the European markets, crucial for the export of agricultural products and openi ng a 
potential for further product diversification as well as for a greater regional integration process. We 
welcome that Guyana has been one of the most advanced EPA parties in terms of tariff dismantling. 
We encourage Guyana to pursue its efforts full im plementation of the EPA provisions fully, notably 
in the area of services.  
4.35.   The EU supports Guyana 's efforts towards good governance and inclusive and sustainable 
development. The EU was a main provider of development assistance (with EUR 66 million disbur sed 
between 2014 and 2020) and remains committed to supporting Guyana under the new EU 
multiannual financial framework with a particular focus on the Forest Partnership.  
4.36.   We appreciate Guyana 's commitment and on -going efforts to facilitate trade and investm ent, 
as well as the support initiatives focused on innovative and sustainable businesses, such as through 
the newly created National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Council. Guyana has a potential for 
specialising in sustainably produced goods.  
4.37.   Nevertheles s, Guyana faces a number of challenges to achieve sustainable and inclusive 
growth. To complement opportunities arising from the exploitation of its natural resources, Guyana 
should pursue more business -friendly regulatory and investment environment. Incre ased 
transparency would be critical, including in the area of public procurement.  
4.38.   The services sector 's share in the economy is relatively low and regulatory reforms could spur 
further growth in this sector as well. For example, there are untapped opportu nities in the tourism 
sector. Despite the importance of foreign direct investment to Guyana, the Investment Act has not 
been modernised. The CARICOM Single Market and Economy also offers further opportunities for 
developing regional value chains across CAR ICOM and linking with South  American economies 
through building -up the necessary infrastructure. With such commitments, Guyana would be better 
equipped to diversify its economy and further integrate regional and global value chains.  
4.39.   The current COVID -19 pandemic makes it essential that we work together bilaterally, 
regionally with CARIFORUM and multilaterally to strengthen our economic ties, as trade can 
contribute to a resilient recovery from this unprecedented crisis.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.40.   The Secretariat Report, however , shows that Guyana is not up to date with its notifications 
such as in case of subsidies and in some areas has not submitted any notifications such as regarding 
state trading enterprises. We would encourage Guyana to fulfil the important transparency and 
notification requirements that would contribute to the rules -based multilateral trading system.  
4.41.   We welcome that Guyana actively participates in some important WTO work, such as on 
fisheries subsides negotiations, and participates in the initiatives on tra de and gender and MSMEs. 
In addition, we would encourage Guyana to join the services domestic regulation initiative as well 
as other ongoing work on e -commerce, investment facilitation as well as the initiatives related to 
trade and sustainability.  
4.42.   The EU appreciates Guyana 's efforts to reply to the advance questions and we look forward 
to reviewing the replies. On behalf of the EU, I wish Guyana a successful fourth  Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.43.   I would like to welcome the Guyanese delegation, headed by Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, to 
this fourth  TPR, and extend greetings to its representatives in Geneva, led by Miss  Kerrlene  Wills.  
4.44.   I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Guyanese Government and the 
WTO Secretariat for their reports, as well as to th e discussant, H.E.  Ambassador  Dwarka -Canabady, 
for her insightful observations, and you, Chair, for your opening comments.  
4.45.   The favourable economic moment Guyana is going through, despite the context of the 
COVID -19 pandemic and its effects on various secto rs of the Guyanese economy, is a very positive 
development. A GDP growth of 43.5% in 2020, with prospects for figures also quite high in 2021 
and 2022, among the highest rates in the world, accompanied by per  capita  GDP growth, increased 
investment volumes  and low levels of inflation are facts to be celebrated by Guyana.  
4.46.   However, the exponential growth of the oil and gas sector in the Guyanese economy, the 
main factor for these positive trends, will also generate challenges for the country, as recognized by  
both the Government 's and the Secretariat 's reports. The need to promote production and export 
diversification, as well as to reduce the energy sector's dependence on non -renewable sources and 
to promote a transition to a low -carbon economy are among thos e challenges.  
4.47.   Strengthening Guyana's participation in global and regional value chains, as well as in 
international trade flows, will help to address them. Hence the importance of becoming more and 
more engaged in this Organization.  
4.48.   Since its last TPR, Guy ana, which is an original Member of the WTO, has opened a Mission 
here in Geneva. In November  2015, it ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement and its 
implementation rate already exceeds 83%. It is among the few Members, like Brazil, to keep the 
entire " schedule" in "ad  valorem" tariffs. Its growing involvement in the WTO also is reflected in the 
appointment of its then Ambassador to be the Chair of the Committee on Agriculture in a special 
session, a negotiating body among those that Members, including B razil, attach the greatest 
importance to in the WTO.  
4.49.   In spite of Guyana 's increased engagement at the WTO, there is still work to be done. A 
particularly important topic is transparency and monitoring of commitments. In some areas, 
Guyana's most recent not ifications date back many years, as is the case for agriculture and SPS. 
Another issue is the implementation of those commitments. Already identified in the last TPR, applied 
tariff rates for some products are still higher than those bound by Guyana at the  WTO.  
4.50.   Guyana states in its report its interest in "tackling and resolving the issues related to WTO 
reform ", as well as in restoring "confidence in the institutions and operation of the multilateral 
trading system ". Brazil is also a Member engaged in this objective. For that, it is necessary to adopt 
a forward look, leaving behind agendas that will not be resumed nor concluded because they no 
longer express the current reality of the multilateral trading system.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.51.   It is also necessary to explore new formats and new ways to strengthen the system, so that 
it is not overtaken by the changes in reality. JSIs on e -commerce and investment facilitation for 
development, for example, could have much to contribute to the framew ork for modernization and 
growth of Guyana's economy.  
4.52.   We also share with Guyana the interest in advancing the agricultural negotiations, having as 
their north the need to promote food security for the most vulnerable and advocating as a priority 
the remova l of subsidies and barriers that distort agricultural markets. To this end, it is essential to 
be guided by the mandate to reform the Agriculture Agreement and to pursue the enhancement of 
agricultural trade rules, not rolling them back.  
4.53.   Brazil and Guyana are neighbours and share a land border of more than 1,600  km. In recent 
years, we have celebrated the 50th anniversary of our bilateral relations, and there has been a 
significant increase in high -level bilateral contacts.  
4.54.   Our bilateral trade has been tren ding upwards. Since Guyana's last Trade Policy Review, 
bilateral flows have increased from USD  29.6 million in 2015 to USD  118.6  million in 2021. The 
figures are still quite modest, but we have been working together to increase them. Guyana has 
been an ass ociate state of MERCOSUR since 2013. Our two  countries have had a preferential trade 
agreement since 2001, and in the last five years we have been discussing its expansion.  
4.55.   Our bilateral trade will have much to benefit from our joint commitment to face log istical 
challenges in areas such as road transportation and digital connectivity. The strengthening of our 
trade flows will also depend on progress in technical negotiations regarding the certification of 
products of plant and animal origin.  
4.56.   Investment is also a promising area in our bilateral relations. Brazilian private sector is 
interested in investing in Guyana in sectors such as agriculture and energy. Brazil and Guyana signed 
and Cooperation and Facilitation Investment Agreement in December  2018. Braz il is making its best 
efforts to speed up the ratification process of the instrument and invites the Government of Guyana 
to also work on the prompt ratification of the Agreement, which will contribute for the promotion of 
an environment favourable to the attraction of bilateral investments.  
4.57.   In this Trade Policy Review, Brazil is interested in understanding better the transformations 
Guyana is going through as a result mainly of its successive major offshore oil discoveries.  
4.58.   Brazil thanks Guyana for the wri tten replies to our questions, which comprises issues such as 
legislation on anti -dumping, countervailing and safeguard being drawn up in Guyana, competition 
policy and requirements used by Guyana for international sanitary and phytosanitary certificates. 
They were forwarded to our capital for examination and follow -up. 
4.59.   We wish Guyana a successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES   
4.60.   The United States reiterates its support for Ukraine during this unimaginably difficult time. 
We wish to pay tribute to the he roism of the Ukrainian people, their armed forces , and leaders. The 
United  States condemns the Russia n Federation' s unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine.  
4.61.   Moving to the US  TPR statement , the United  States would like to welcome Guyana 's delegation 
led by the Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister of Public Works to this Trade Policy Review. We 
would also like to welcome Ms Kerrlene  Wills, Chargé d'Affaires here in Geneva and express our 
sincere appreciation for her engagement and our positi ve bilateral working relationship.  
4.62.   The United  States is Guyana 's number  one trading partner, and trade is increasing between 
both countries. In 2021, our total two -way goods trade reached USD 3.2 billion, up from 
USD 1.4 billion in 2020 , two-way goods trad e is up 43 % since 2020 . We recorded USD 991 million 
in exports to Guyana and USD 2.2 billion in imports in 2021. Guyana is a valued trading partner of 
the United  States and we commend the country for creating the Natural Resource Fund and other WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  mechanisms to responsibly convert the significant oil revenues that started to enter the country last 
year into long lasting societal benefits.  
4.63.   Guyana is one of 17  beneficiaries under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act and one 
of 8 to enjoy the expanded acces s under the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA). Both 
these programs are collectively referred to as the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI). CBI, together 
with most favoured nation status, provides Guyana with duty -free access to the United  States for a 
majority of its exports. Guyana currently utilizes CBI benefits on 48 % of eligible goods. I will note 
the US  Congress reauthorized CBTPA in 2020 for an additional 10 years, until 30 September  2030.  
4.64.   Guyana has made significant efforts since the last Trade Policy Review held in 2015 to 
integrate into the world economy and the United  States recognizes those efforts. As a member of 
the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM), Guyana has pursued trade policies in 
line with CARICOM on matters of economic integration, cooperation, and the coordination of 
positions in trade negotiations.   
4.65.   We do have some specific concerns in this review. We note that Guyana is missing notifications 
that fulfil its transparency obligations to the WTO. In particul ar, Guyana is missing the annual 
questionnaire for the Committee on Import Licensing, the national legislation that implements the 
Customs Valuation Agreement, a subsidies notification pursuant to Article  25 of the Agreement on 
Subsidies and Countervailing  Measures, and information according to its obligations under the 
Agreement on Agriculture. In addition, the United  States observes Guyana has not submitted 
notifications regarding state trading enterprises within the meaning of Article  17 of the GATT 1994 .  
4.66.   We encourage Guyana to support the initiative by 21  cosponsors for a General Council 
Decision to Enhance Transparency and Improve Compliance with Notification Requirements under 
WTO Agreements. This proposal is designed to improve support for Members fa cing difficulties in 
fulfilling their notification obligations and we would welcome constructive input from Guyana.  
4.67.   The United  States further encourages Guyana to become more active in the WTO Committee 
on Trade Facilitation and to share its national experiences as part of its ongoing efforts to build 
national capacity among its technical agencies.  We also invite Guyana to make its technical 
assistance needs known to the Trade Facilitation Committee to ensure donors are fully aware of your 
needs. Finally, the United  States would welcome Guyana 's participation in ongoing initiatives, 
particularly in the area of trade facilitation where a number of Members are working to secure a 
decision on strengthening resiliency and preparedness through Trade  Facilitation.  
4.68.   With regard to intellectual property, a key issue for Guyana's economic development, Guyana 
has indicated that its new Copyright Bill is in an advanced stage of preparation as part of a 
comprehensive review of overall intellectual property l egislation, aimed at updating and modernizing 
the legislation as a whole. With this in mind, the United  States is looking forward to further 
information that Guyana can provide to clarify aspects of Guyana 's current intellectual property, with 
respect to c opyright and trademarks, in addition to proposed changes under the new legislation.  
4.69.   The Secretariat Report adds that under the Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU 
and CARIFORUM, Guyana is committed to acceding to other treaties administered under  the World 
Intellectual Property Organization, as well as to adequately implementing the obligations of 
intellectual property agreements it has already signed, including the WTO TRIPS Agreement.  
4.70.   The United  States recognizes Guyana has made numerous changes  in the zero -rated and VAT 
exempt items during the review period, however, there was hope the Government would have made 
even greater strides. The Secretariat's Report states that Guyana eliminated differential treatment 
between some locally produced produ cts and their imported equivalents, yet there are now new 
cases, including bedsheets and pillowcases. This works against a basic tenet of WTO Membership 
regarding national treatment.  
4.71.   We have submitted questions and look forward to  responses to these questi ons, particularly, 
on IPR, SPS, and government procurement. We look forward to  discussing and reviewing Guyana's 
responses. As a whole, we are encouraged by the strides that Guyana has made during this review 
period.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.72.   The United  States will continue to work  with Guyana and the other CARICOM members to 
strengthen and deepen our relationship . At this grave moment, it bears repeating , the United  States 
will cooperate and work with any Member, or country  seeking accession to the WTO, that is 
committed, as are we , to the values of the WTO, including a mutual desire for our peoples to live 
and thrive in a fair, rules -based system.  
CHINA  
4.73.   China is very pleased to take part in the fourth  Trade Policy Review of Guyana. We would like 
to extend a warm welcome to the dele gation of Guyana, headed by Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minster within 
the Ministry of Public Works, who is participating virtually from Georgetown, and the delegation of 
Guyana to the WTO in Geneva.  
4.74.   We thank the Government of Guyana and the WTO Secretariat for the p reparation of reports. 
And we appreciate the invaluable comments of the Chair Ambassador Dr  Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme 
and discussant H.E.  Mrs Usha Dwarka -Canabady.  
4.75.   China recognizes Guyana 's outstanding economic achievements over the last few years. As 
mentioned in the report, Guyana joined the club of oil exporters in early 2020, which led to a growth 
of 43.48% in 2020 despite the impact of COVID -19 pandemic. This impressive performance mak es 
Guyana the champion in the GDP growth rate ranking in 2020. Hopefully the rate will keep soaring, 
with the sustaining development of the oil and gas sector, as well as measures by Government to 
improve the business climate and attract investment in othe r sectors.  
4.76.   China welcomes Guyana 's active engagement and contribution to the multilateral trading 
system. Guyana is an original Member of the WTO and the first  South  American nation to ratify the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement. China would also like to expre ss our respect to the former 
Ambassador  John Deep Ford for his commitment and leadership on agriculture and the intensive 
technical work undertaken during his two  years term as the Chair for the Committee on Agriculture 
in special session from 2018 to 2020 . 
4.77.   China values the bilateral relation with Guyana. This year in particular marks the 
50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Guyana and China. Our trade and 
economic relations have been greatly strengthened, especially since the si gnature of MOU on the 
Belt and Road Initiative in July  2018.  
4.78.   In 2021, China 's bilateral trade with Guyana totalled USD 710 million, recording a growth of 
23.7%. In 2020, the rate peaked at 78.9%, thanking to the significant increase of export from 
Guyana. In particular, the export from Guyana to China increased from USD 46 million in 2019 to 
USD 390 million  in 2021, mainly due to exports of crude oil. The import also grew from 
USD 270 million to USD 320 million. In the same three  years period, the total val ue of direct 
investment from China to Guyana reached USD 180 million, and new contracts of projects added up 
to USD 423 million. Guyana also participated all first three  editions of China International Import 
Expo, only missed the fourth  edition due to the  inconveniences caused by the COVID -19 pandemic. 
We look forward to strengthening collaboration with Guyana further more.  
4.79.   In this Review, China submitted a number of questions, notably with regard to the policy of 
investment for certain sectors, adjustment s related to new strategy, details of standards, etc. We 
would like to thank the delegation of Guyana in advance for their response to our questions.  
4.80.   We look forward to a constructive exchange of views and wish Guyana a very successful Trade 
Policy Review.  
JAPAN  
4.81.   Allow me to express, on behalf of the Government of Japan, our sense of solidarity the people 
of Ukraine.  I would like to briefly address the situation in Ukraine.  We are very much concerned that 
the situation in Ukraine constitutes an infringement of one of the WTO Member 's sovereign right and 
territorial integrity, and a violation of international law. This is totally unacceptable. Japan strongly WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  condemns this situation and joins the international community in cooperating to address th e 
situation while standing alongside Ukraine and its people.  
4.82.   Coming back to the TPR for Guyana,  Japan would like to welcome the delegation of Guyana, 
headed by H.E . Deodat  Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works.  
4.83.   Japan would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Guyana for their 
reports submitted for this review process, and the discussant, H.E.  Ms Usha Dwarka -Canabady, 
Permanent Representative of Mauritius, for her insightful remarks.  
4.84.   Despite the ongoing situation with th e COVID -19 pandemic, Japan appreciates the 
Government of Guyana 's participation in today 's Trade Policy Review.  
4.85.   We commend Guyana 's efforts to create an open business environment.  
4.86.   In this context, Japan would like to highlight some aspects on its contribut ions to Guyana.  
4.87.   First, in order to contribute to Guyana 's economic revitalization, Japan has made Guyana a 
target country of its preferential tariff system.  
4.88.   Second, Japan has provided cooperation in the field of disaster prevention and the 
environment, an d cooperation for strengthening power transmission and distribution facilities in the 
capital and surrounding areas.  
4.89.   Third, we are supporting the provision of health and medical equipment to bolster measures 
in response to the pandemic.  
4.90.   Turning to the con text of the WTO, we would like to emphasize that in order to achieve 
economic growth in the multilateral trading system in the future, we do hope that Guyana will 
improve its commitment to financial services and telecommunications services based on the 
discussions in the GATS extension negotiations on financial and telecommunications services.  
4.91.   In conclusion, Japan appreciates Guyana 's active participation in this TPR today. We wish the 
delegation of Guyana a very successful and fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.92.   Quisiéramos sumarnos a los Miembros que han dado la bienvenida a la delegación de Guyana, 
encabezada por el Excmo.  Sr. Ministro Deodat  Indar.  
4.93.   Agradecemos los informes preparados por Guyana y por la Secretaría, que nos han brindado 
un panorama completo de las políticas comerciales de este Miembro. Damos las gracias asimismo a 
la Excma.  Embajadora Usha  Dwarka -Canabady por sus observaciones y comentarios.  
4.94.   Reconocemos los desafíos que la crisis económica producto de la pandemia representó para 
Guyana y para todos los países en desarrollo y esperamos que la estabilidad de sus indicadores 
macroeconómicos y el crecimiento proyectado para la economía de Guyana redunden en una mejora 
en el empleo y bienestar de su población.  
4.95.   La Argent ina ve con agrado los esfuerzos de Guyana para aumentar y diversificar su comercio 
internacional, así como el agregado de valor a sus exportaciones y resaltamos las medidas adoptadas 
para la implementación del Acuerdo de Facilitación del Comercio.  
4.96.   De igual  manera, celebramos el rol activo de Guyana en la profundización de la integración 
comercial en la región del Caribe. La Argentina tiene un particular interés en profundizar sus vínculos 
comerciales con la región y con el Caribe en particular.  
4.97.   Si bien el comercio bilateral entre Guyana y la Argentina es aún modesto, estamos seguros 
que el mismo tiene un gran potencial para crecer significativamente, particularmente en alimentos.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.98.   En este sentido y en vista de la particular relevancia que reviste para la pos ible expansión del 
comercio bilateral, hemos presentado una pregunta a Guyana sobre el Protocolo que rige el control 
de la CARICOM para la inspección y los procedimientos de aprobación para el comercio de animales 
y productos animales. Mucho agradecemos de  antemano la respuesta a nuestra pregunta, la cual 
será debidamente estudiada por nuestras autoridades en Buenos  Aires.  
4.99.   Además de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de intercambiar 
consideraciones sobre prácticas comerciales de est e Miembro, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la 
relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades de 
Guyana una exitosa conclusión del presente examen.  
ICELAND  
4.100.   Before I turn to the TPR of Guyana, please allow me to express concerns regarding recent 
developments. During the past two years we have often, in this body, referred to the crisis stemming 
from the COVID -19 pandemic and its negative effects on the global economy. Now we are facing 
new crisis, man -made cris is, following the horrendous events that have been taking place in Ukraine 
over the past week.  
4.101.   Iceland condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the brutal, unjustified, and unprovoked 
attack of the Russia n Federation  on Ukraine – a flagrant violation of international law, undermining 
international order that is based on multilateralism and rule of law, which this Body's role is to 
protect and nourish.  
4.102.   Iceland reiterates its unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial 
integrity of  Ukraine, within its internationally recognised borders.  Our thoughts are with the people 
that currently suffer because of this aggression, which the Russia n Federation  must end 
immediately.  
4.103.   Now turn to the Trade Policy Review of Guyana , it is with pleasur e that Iceland welcomes 
the distinguished delegation of Guyana to their trade policy review today. We also express 
appreciation to the WTO Secretariat and Guyana for the reports prepared, as well as to the 
discussant, for the excellent framing of the issue s for our discussion today.  
4.104.   Guyana has since the last TPR in 2015 seen real GDP expand at annual rates ranging from 
3.7% to 5.4%. Having suffered the economic effects of the COVID -19, the first  year of income from 
the newly discovered oil reserves being 20 20 has, however, contribute to mitigating the negative 
impacts of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.105.   Given the global challenges we are fronted with, it is important to keep in mind that it is a 
well-known fact that improving gender equality and empowering women, not only positively 
contributes to economic growth, as we have so often highlighted in this body, but it also contributes 
to sustainable peace and security in many concrete ways. One example, and the most relevant for 
WTO, on how to achieve that is to apply targeted gender -based trade policies and programs.  
4.106.   Improved data collection and gender -based analysis are important when it comes to 
developing gender -based trade policies. So is the sharing of best practices of respective experiences 
relating to those policies and programs.  
4.107.   In the spirit of supporting relevant data gathering in this field, Iceland has submitted in 
advance written questions on the participation of women in the economy of Guyana. We welcome 
the replies as the answers will be useful in gathering best practices in the promotion of 
gender -equality within trade.  
4.108.   Finally, as one of the co-Chairs of the Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender, Iceland 
welcomes Guyana 's support to the proposed Joint Ministerial Declaration on the advance ment of 
gender equality and women 's economic empowerment within trade.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.109.   Iceland appreciates Guyana 's active engagement in WTO and their continued support for the 
multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Guyana every success for their Trade Policy 
Review.  
4.110.   To conclude, I thank you, and congratulate you Chair for your strong leadership of this Body 
and I look forward to continue working with in you role as the Chair of the Dispute Settlement Body.  
JAMAICA  ON BEHALF  OF THE ACP GROUP  
4.111.   Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister of Public Works, it is a pleasure for me to extend 
congratulations, on behalf of the ACP Group, to you and members of the Guyanese delegation to the 
fourth  Trade Policy Review of the Co -operative Republic of Guyana.  
4.112.   We also extend th anks to you Chair and the Secretariat team for the arrangements for this 
meeting, especially the preparation of the comprehensive Report. The Group appreciates the insights 
of H.E.  Usha Dwarka -Canabady, our discussant, and thanks her for setting the stage of today 's 
deliberations.  
4.113.   It would be remiss of me if I did not highlight the significant role that Guyana has continued 
to play within the ACP Group. Notably the founding agreement of organisation, the Georgetown 
Agreement, is named after Guyana 's capital  city and several Guyanese nationals have held vital 
leadership roles within the organisation, including as Secretary General of the OACPS through 
Ambassador  Patrick Gomes and Deputy Secretary General previously through Mr  Carl Greenidge, 
former Minister o f Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.  
4.114.   The Group is further pleased to partner with Guyana in the promotion of a transparent, 
rules-based, multilateral trading system. We commend Guyana 's unwavering commitment to the 
strengthening of WTO through its active engagement in the discussions on several critical issues.  
4.115.   We are especially appreciative of the leadership role played by former 
Ambassador  Deep Ford, as ACP  Coordinator for 2017 -2018, and who chaired the Agriculture 
Negotiating Group for 2018 -2020.   
4.116.   The Group commends the efforts of Ms  Kerrlene  Wills, Guyana 's current Chargé d 'Affaires 
here in Geneva and the team, who actively participate in ACP advocacy within the WTO, including in 
the fisheries negotiations. We applaud the progress made by Guyana to fulfil its obligations under 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) through the submission of its notifications under Section  II.  
4.117.   We view positively the report that Guyana currently has an implementation rate of 83.2% 
under the TFA. In addition, Guyana is in the process of rolling out an electronic single window at the 
border to facilitate customs procedures. These collective actions augur well for the expansion of 
regional and international trade.    
4.118.   From a national perspective, Jamaica and Guyana, as fellow members of CARICOM, continue 
to enjoy excellent bilateral relations. We welcome Guyana 's chairmanship of the Special Ministerial 
Task Force on Food Production and Food S ecurity within the sub -region, and its leadership role in 
accelerating the commercialization of the regional agri -food industry.  
4.119.   We are pleased that during the review period, the country 's economic growth remained 
stable, averaging well over 12.5%. With t he opening of the oil and gas sector in December  2019, 
Guyana experienced a ground -breaking structural transformation of its economy on several levels. 
This led to economic growth peaking to 43.48% in 2020. Guyana, with its natural resources and 
untapped l andmass, has much hidden potential, and is currently one of the fastest -growing 
economies in the world. We commend the efforts of the Government to diversify its economy, 
improve its business climate, and attract investment into other sectors of the econom y.  
4.120.   Notably, the Government has carried out important investments to upgrade and transform 
public infrastructure, in particular, the international airport. This action augurs well not only for 
Guyana 's efforts to enhance air transport services but also for  transport services in the CARICOM 
region as a whole.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.121.   We note too that the country continues to expand road networks to facilitate the flow of 
goods and people. These efforts to foster an enabling business and investment environment should 
be encouraged.  
4.122.   Strengthening the productive capacity of the country in the food sector is also a key priority 
for the Government of Guyana; this is critical for food security. The Group takes note of the adoption 
in February  2021, within the context of CARICOM, of a stra tegic plan tabled by H .E. Dr Mohamed 
Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, that foresees the development of the agri -food system in partnership 
with the private sector.  
4.123.   This strategic plan seeks to support necessary investments and integrating micro, small, an d 
medium -sized companies; it also seeks to harmonize sanitary and phytosanitary standards to 
facilitate intra -regional trade, and it established a Special Ministerial Taskforce to support with the 
implementation of the strategy.  
4.124.   These actions are consiste nt with the ACP Group’s overall views on the actions that support 
food security, as well as public -private sector partnerships for development and trade.  
4.125.   On the technological front, the ACP Group applauds Guyana for adopting proactive steps to 
develop the necessary infrastructure to enable the emergence of new online -related businesses.  
4.126.   This has been complemented by regulatory reforms culminating in the liberalization of the 
telecommunications sector that was completed on 5  October  2020. It is anticipated that this action 
will boost online services and reduce the cost of internet bandwidth. In addition, the Government is 
striving to reduce the digital divide through the installation of optical fiber networks across the 
country.  
4.127.   On the environmental front, the ACP Group applauds the Government 's implementation of 
robust plans to transition towards a low carbon economy and developing clean energy.  
4.128.   This is encapsulated in Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which 
aims to deploy renewable energy across the country. The strategy is praiseworthy as it seeks to 
increase access to energy in rural areas by connecting mini grids to the lar ger grid.  
4.129.   In parallel, Guyana has also demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting the 
environment by combatting illegal logging and strengthening forest governance. Guyana 's Forestry 
Commission further has pursued an innovative market -based mechanism to enable payment of 
forest carbon services. The wider membership can well benefit from an exchange in best practices 
in this regard.  
4.130.   At the regional level, Guyana continues to pursue deepening regional integration within 
CARICOM, while forging strategic linkages to other key markets in Asia and Latin  America.  
4.131.   In the context of the COVID -19 pandemic, Guyana has shared the plight of other small 
developing economies. To this end, the ACP Group supports the Government 's appeal for the 
equitable access to medi cal supplies and vaccines.  
4.132.   Finally, on behalf of the Group, we wish the delegation of Guyana a successful fourth  Trade 
Policy Review.  I would also like to express, on behalf of the ACP Group all thanks to you Chair for 
your ably leadership of this TPRB and  we look forward for your continuing contribution to the DSB.  
INDIA   
4.133.    Allow me to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Guyana led by 
H.E. Mr Deodat  Indar, Minister of Public Works. India is pleased to be part of the Trade Policy Review 
of Guyana toda y. My delegation would further like to commend the Government of Guyana and the 
WTO Secretariat for the ir comprehensive reports and would also thank the discussant H.E.  Mrs Usha 
Dwarka -Canabady of Mauritius for her insightful remarks. We also commend the e fforts of 
Ms Kerrlene  Wills, Chargé d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Guyana  in this regard . WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.134.   India enjoys historic and close ties with the Caribbean region and with Guyana in particular. 
Our relations have been strengthened by our longstanding people to people contacts, a pivotal link 
between our two countries  
4.135.   In recent times, the meeting between the Indian Prime  Minister with the leaders of CARICOM 
member States during the first  Indian -CARICOM Summit held in 2019 ha s strengthened our dialogue 
with th e region and the launch of Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS) facility,  by the 
Indian Prime  Minister, which is a joint initiative between the Coalition for Disaster Resilient 
Infrastructure  (CDRI)  and Small Island Developing States  (SIDS) at  the COP26 Climate Summit in 
Glasgow, further bolsters our relationship with the region and with Guyana.  
4.136.   India enjoys a rapidly -growing  trade and developing partnership with Guyana. Our bilateral 
trade in 2020 -21 amounted to USD  46.97  million, an increase 46% over the previous year, with 
Indian exports at US D 35.60  million and imports at US D 11.28  million.  A number of Indian 
companies have invested in diverse fields such as agriculture, education, health, and information 
technology. India has been a close development  partner  of Guyana and has undertaken capacity 
building infrastructure development and technical assistance programmes. Most recently, India has 
donated USD  1 million in 2020 to combat the COVID -19 pandemic gifted  80,000  doses of vaccines 
under "Vaccine Maitri" programme.  
4.137.   We note in the Secretariat's Report that the recent general economic performance of Guyana 
was in  line with past trends from 2016 to 2019 when real GDP expanded at annual rates ranging 
from 3.7% to 5.4%. We are also please d to see that Guyana's economy has remained resilient during 
2020 and 2021 , despite the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.138.   The discovery of oil has opened new horizons for and promises to transform this picture and 
make a lucrative new frontier of crude oil production. In dia has commenced import of oil from 
Guyana since 2021, a new dimension to our trade partnership. This opportunity, which we hope to 
fully utilize , has provided further momentum in the India-Guyana  bilateral trade and will act as a 
catalyst for many other related business activities and investments.  
4.139.   In this regard, we also request the authority in Guyana for removing and liberalizing the 
regulatory barriers for our pharmaceutical  exports so that both countries can mutually benefit from 
this close cooperatio n in the pharmaceutical sector, the recognition of India's indigenous vaccine 
COVAXIN by Guyana is a step forward in this direction.  
4.140.   My delegation appreciates the commitment of Guyana to the multilateral trading system, 
and we welcome the participation of the Guyanese delegation in the ongoing negotiations and its 
role particularly in taking forwards the interest of small economies in the ongoing work in the WTO. 
With these words , we wish the delegation of Guyana a productive and successful Trade Policy 
Review. 
BARBADOS  ON BEHALF  OF THE CARICOM  GROUP  
4.141.   It is a distinct honour and pleasure to, on behalf of the CARICOM Group in Geneva, extend 
a warm welcome to Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works of the 
Co-operative Republic of Guyana and his team, on the occasion of their country 's fourth  Trade Policy 
Review (TPR).  
4.142.    The CARICOM Group wishes to express its appreciation to Minister  Indar for his 
comprehensive and intuitive opening statement and to the disc ussant, H.E.  Mrs Usha 
Dwarka -Canabady (Mauritius), for her thought -provoking perspectives. We also thank the WTO 
Secretariat for its usual methodical preparation for this Trade Policy Review. We are fully cognizant 
of the challenges that have been created by the COVID -19 pandemic and so we commend you all 
for bringing this Trade Policy Review to fruition.  
4.143.   The Review today is set against the backdrop of increased threats to multilateralism, a 
pandemic that has caused significant supply chain disrupt ions, the reversal of hard -fought 
development gains and burgeoning debt levels in many small, vulnerable countries like those in 
CARICOM. In addition, we face a climate crisis that knows no bounds, and therefore positions SIDS 
and other low -lying countries  like ours, on its frontline.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.144.   We are pleased to see that despite the fluctuations in global prices in some of their key 
commodity export sectors, Guyana has weathered the storm to record general economic 
performance in line with 2016 to 2019 trends and an nual real GDP increases at rates between 3.7 % 
to 5.4 %. This growth can be attributed to the employment of sound monetary policy and the 
discovery of significant offshore oil deposits which has transformed Guyana into an oil -producing 
and oil -exporting coun try. 
4.145.   We recognise that as a small, vulnerable WTO Member, Guyana continues to be heavily 
reliant on a narrow export base. Additionally, despite its recent successes, it will need to ensure that 
revenues from its newfound wealth flow back into country for t he betterment of the population at 
large, and does not negatively impact on other important economic activities. We believe that 
Guyana 's intention to use the revenues from the oil and gas sector to invest in critical areas like 
education and health, and i n key economic sectors, namely, agro -processing, light manufacturing, 
services and tourism could be key to realising economic diversification. In this regard, we commend 
the Government of Guyana on its foresight in establishing its National Resource Fund, which is aimed 
at decoupling the volatility in oil revenue from public expenditures, promoting competitiveness, 
ensuring intergenerational transfer of wealth, and guarantee the availability of funds for national 
development priorities, including the buildi ng of an inclusive green economy.  
4.146.   The CARICOM Group is pleased to see that Guyana has continued to be a strong advocate 
for a transparent, rules -based, multilateral trading system. We believe that this is reflected in the 
country's active participation in  the work of the WTO and in its advocacy for special and differential 
treatment for small players within the fisheries subsidies negotiations.  
4.147.   The CARICOM Group in Geneva wishes Guyana a successful conclusion to its fourth  Trade 
Policy Review.  
BARBADOS  
4.148.   It is indeed an honour for me on behalf of Barbados to extend a warm welcome our sister 
CARICOM country Guyana, represented Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works 
of Guyana and his team, on its very important fourth  Trade Policy Review .  
4.149.   We must congratulate Minister  Indar for his impressive country statement. I would also wish 
to express our appreciation to H.E . Mrs. Usha Dwarka -Canabady, as discussant, for her 
comprehensive analysis. We also thank the Secretariat for their usual thoro ugh preparations of this 
Trade Policy Review.  
4.150.   At a time when multilateralism and the multilateral trading system are under severe threat 
and the WTO is struggling with its relevance, it is refreshing to hear Members in this forum, renewing 
their faith in t he WTO and reaffirming their commitment to a transparent, rules -based, multilateral 
trading system. We commend Guyana in this regard.   
4.151.   As sister CARICOM countries, Barbados and Guyana enjoy close trade and diplomatic 
relations. The COVID -19 pandemic has r eiterated the need for increased intra -regional trade among 
CARICOM member States as the world witnessed many countries implementing policies to look after 
their own interest, in the midst of uneven, and inequitable access to COVID -19 vaccines and other 
lifesaving medical technologies. Solidarity within the region therefore remains critical.  Recently, our 
two countries agreed to advance cooperation and investment in the areas of agriculture and 
fisheries, oil and gas, mining, forestry, tourism, the hospital ity industry, transportation, housing , 
and water resources. We look forward to our continued relationship with Guyana in the  region as 
well as here in the WTO.  
4.152.   Barbados wishes Guyana a successful conclusion to its fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
HONDURAS  
4.153.   Honduras le da la más cordial bienvenida a toda la delegación de Guyana, encabezados por 
su jefe de delegación, su excelencia Deodat  Indar, Ministro de Obras Públicas, al mismo tiempo que 
les agradecemos por su Declaración y por su informe.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.154.   Exten demos nuestro agradecimiento a usted Presidente por su conducción y orientación, a 
la ponente por sus valiosos aportes y a la Secretaría de la OMC por el gran trabajo realizado.  
4.155.   Nuestro país se congratula de participar en este ejercicio de transparencia y nos satisface 
observar que, durante el período examinado, Guyana registró resultados económicos positivos, con 
una tasa media de crecimiento superior al 12,5%, mucho de ello basado en gran medida por la 
agricultura y las industrias extractivas, así como po r otras acciones adoptadas que le permitieron 
mejorar el entorno empresarial y atraer inversiones.  
4.156.   Notamos con interés, la adopción de la Estrategia de Desarrollo con Bajas Emisiones de 
Carbono de Guyana para el 2030, la cual está orientada a la expansión masiva de las energías 
renovables en todo el país y mantener niveles reducidos de emisiones de gases de efecto 
invernadero.  
4.157.   De los informes se resalta que la investigación y el desarrollo siguen siendo el eje central de 
la iniciativa del Gobierno para prom over y fortalecer los sectores emergentes a fin de que sean 
fundamentales para aumentar los niveles de producción.  
4.158.   Nos llama la atención la voluntad del país en la formulación de un plan integral para la 
agricultura fin de convertir a Guyana en el granero del Caribe y celebramos la adopción de la 
estrategia de Fomento del Programa de Sistemas Agroalimentarios del CARICOM a fin de revitalizar 
el crecimiento y el desarrollo del sector agroalimentario de la comunidad caribeña.  
4.159.   Nuestros países por ser economías  pequeñas y vulnerables comparten muchas visiones y 
posiciones, por lo que seguiremos apoyando y defendiendo la reanudación de las negociaciones de 
la Ronda de Doha para el Desarrollo , incluidas las flexibilidades , y abogando por resultados 
equilibrados y orientados al desarrollo, que redunden en beneficio de nuestros pueblos.  
4.160.   Finalmente, Honduras reconoce los aportes, logros y la activa participación de Guyana en la 
OMC y les deseamos el mayor de los éxitos en la presentación de su examen de políticas comerciales.  
PANAMÁ  
4.161.   Deseo ante todo saludar y felicitar atentamente a Su Excelencia Deodat  Indar, Ministro de 
Obras Públicas de Guyana, y a toda la delegación guyanesa por la destacada preparación de su 
reporte. A su vez, deseo agradecer a la Embajadora Usha  Dwarka -Canabady de Mauricio, ponente 
en este cuarto  examen, por sus comentarios esclarecedores que nos ayudan a contextualizar las 
políticas comerciales de Guyana. Además, agradezco a la Secretaría por preparar los respectivos 
reportes.  
4.162.   Mi delegación nota con agrado que Guyana ha tratado de diversificar su economía en el 
periodo objeto de examen. Una muestra de esto es el desarrollo del sector de petróleo y el gas, y 
su subsecuente exportación. Esto ha permitido que Guyana utilice los ingresos de esos secto res para 
invertir en sus prioridades de desarrollo – como lo son salud y educación – y en sectores clave de 
su economía como la agricultura, la industria manufacturera ligera, los servicios, y el turismo.  
4.163.   También nos complace conocer que Guyana registró r esultados económicos positivos, con 
una tasa media de crecimiento superior al 12,5%. Esto es una increíble muestra de que Guyana ha 
sabido potenciar sus ingresos del sector gas y petróleo para mejorar el entorno empresarial y atraer 
inversión.  
4.164.   Reconocemos los esfuerzos de Guyana por apoyar a otros sectores de su economía como lo 
son el turismo, las nuevas tecnologías de la información y comunicación (TICs), y la energía 
renovable. Esto último fue catapultado en el Plan del Gobierno llamado "Estrategia de De sarrollo con 
Bajas Emisiones de Carbono de Guyana para 2030 " y está orientado a la expansión masiva de las 
energías renovables en todo el país, para desvincular el crecimiento económico del uso de 
combustibles fósiles para la generación de electricidad med iante el desarrollo de recursos 
energéticos de baja emisión. Lo que permitirá a Guyana cumplir con los Objetivos de Desarrollo 
Sostenible 2030.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.165.   Sin embargo, el informe muestra una alta dependencia en la importación de mercancías para 
cubrir las necesidades de la población, lo que coloca a Guyana en una posición vulnerable en lo 
referente a su seguridad alimentaria. En ese sentido, aplaudimos los e sfuerzos del Gobierno de 
Guyana con miras a en centrar su política actual para fomentar la producción nacional de productos.  
4.166.   En el ámbito multilateral, Guyana ha seguido apoyando el multilateralismo y la integración 
regional en el contexto de la Comunidad del Caribe, CARICOM representando a este grupo de 
Miembros en las distintas negociaciones que se celebran en esta Organización, en la cual podemos 
destacar su rol en las negociaciones para la eliminación de los subsidios a la pesca.  
4.167.   Adicionalmente, celebramos las medidas adoptadas por Guyana para fomentar las reformas 
nacionales en materia de facilitación del comercio y de esta manera acelerar la aplicación del Acuerdo 
sobre Facilitación del Comercio (AFC).  
4.168.   Panamá y Guyana forman part e del Grupo del G33. En donde, abogamos por que se nivele 
la cancha en las negociaciones en agricultura para lograr la seguridad alimentaria de nuestros países.  
4.169.   Así mismo compartimos objetivos en el Grupo de economías pequeñas y vulnerables, en 
donde nuest ras delegaciones trabajan con miras a que a través del comercio podamos mejorar 
nuestras capacidades para aprovechar las oportunidades que nos ofrece el sistema multilateral del 
comercio. Siendo el principio del trato especial y diferenciado importante par a una total integración 
en el comercio mundial y cadenas de valores globales.  
4.170.   Le deseamos éxito a Guyana en este examen . 
SAINT  VINCENT  AND  THE GRENADINES  ON BEHALF  OF THE OECS  
4.171.   I make this statement on behalf of the WTO member States of the Organisation of Eastern 
Caribbean States (OECS). The OECS is pleased to participate in this the fourth  Trade Policy Review 
of Guyana. In this regard, I join others in welcoming The Honourable Deodat  Indar, Head of 
Delegation and Minister within the Ministry of Public Work s and his delegation.  
4.172.   We also wish to thank you Chair for your astute steering of this session and further convey 
our compliments to the Secretariat for the comprehensive report which has been provided. We also 
extend our appreciation to the discussant, A mbassador  Usha Dwarka -Canabady , for the insightful 
commentary.  
4.173.   The OECS also takes this opportunity to commend Guyana for its economic performance 
over the past decade. During this time, like many other small island developing states (SIDS), 
Guyana has ha d to deal with an unfavourable external environment owing to climate change induced 
events, and more recently, the COVID -19 pandemic. The fact that its GDP continues to improve 
even in the context of negative externalities, speaks to the competent stewards hip of its leaders and 
policy makers.   
4.174.   However, the gains which Guyana is making and will continue to make should not detract 
from the ongoing need for developing countries to have access to appropriate and effective special 
and differential treatment in current and future WTO Agreements. It is important for policy space to 
be retained in which to practice economic development and execute trade policy in a manner which 
is consistent with the needs of the economic development of developing countries, includ ing least 
developed countries (LDCs).  
4.175.   The economies of Guyana and those of the OECS member States are linked through the 
Caribbean Community (CARICOM), specifically the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas which aims to 
create a Single Market and Economy. In thi s view, the economic well -being of our member States is 
inextricably tied to the economic fortunes of Guyana and vice versa.  
4.176.   We welcome Guyana 's commitment to long -term economic stability and growth. We 
commend Guyana 's fiscal discipline, we take note of the fact that the many sectors fuelling Guyana 's 
economy are revving, and we are especially welcoming of the fact that Guyana has joined the club 
of countries which are major oil producers and exporters. We support and will continue to support WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  Guyana 's quest to redeploy its oil revenues to invest in critical national development priorities. A 
stronger, more diverse and more resilient Guyana economy and society are certainly in all of our 
interests.  
4.177.   Like Guyana, the OECS also places a high priority on co ncluding the outstanding issues on 
the Doha Development Agenda. We are also committed to the WTO reform agenda, including 
addressing issues in the Appellate Body with a view to its reconstitution as soon as possible. We will 
be coordinating our positions a nd interests with Guyana and other CARICOM and ACP members. We 
also remain committed to the fuller integration of all developing countries and LDCs into the global 
economy and trade policy is one vehicle which can take us in that direction.  
4.178.   In closing, my delegation would like to once again applaud Guyana for its sterling efforts 
and congratulate the delegation on a successful Review, and to renew to Guyana, the support of all 
the OECS member States.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.179.   Before I began, I wish to reiterate tha t the Korean Government strongly condemns the 
Russian Federation's armed invasion against Ukraine, which violates the principles of the UN Charter. 
The use of force leading to the loss of innocent lives cannot be justified under any circumstance. 
Ukraine 's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence must be respected.  
4.180.   Korea wishes to join other speakers in welcoming and thanking the Honourable 
Minister  Indar for the presentation of developments since the previous Review. I also thank 
Ambassador  Dwarka-Canabady for her insights and observations and the Secretariat for its very 
comprehensive Report.  
4.181.   During the review period, Guyana, as a small vulnerable economy, has been seeking to 
diversify its economy and expand its export base. It is clear from b oth the Government and the 
Secretariat 's report that the recently -begun export of crude oil has been having a strong impact on 
its economic performance. The discussant has highlighted that Guyana is on the verge of becoming 
the largest per  capita producer of oil in the world and that the importance of judicious management 
of its resources cannot be overstated. We welcome the efforts to ensure that cultivating its newfound 
natural resources is complementary to its efforts to diversify its economy.  
4.182.   We welcom e Guyana 's continued embrace of rules -based multilateralism, its active 
participation in WTO negotiations such as on fisheries subsidies and deepening integration with its 
region through the removal of barriers to trade.  
4.183.   We note the Secretariat report 's observation that there have been no major changes in 
Guyana 's legal framework for business and investment since the last review in 2015. Guyana 's 
Investment Act highlights its desire to increase the predictability, stability, and transparency of the 
legal r egime for investment and streamlining existing procedures for investment. We would simply 
note that a number of small vulnerable economies, including those which, like Guyana, have a very 
limited number of investment agreements – a BIT with Korea being one  of them - have been seeing 
the value of the Investment Facilitation Agreement being negotiated in the WTO. The Korean 
delegation encourages Guyana to consider joining as well. An investment facilitation agreement is 
expected to promote exactly the kind of  institutional development that Guyana 's Investment Act 
seeks to achieve.  
4.184.   Thank you and we wish Guyana a successful fourth  TPR. 
CAMEROUN  AU NOM  DU GROUPE  AFRICAIN   
4.185.   Madame la Présidente, le Cameroun présente en son nom propre et au nom du Groupe 
africain, ses vives félicitations à la Guyana pour l'excellent rapport qui a été présenté ce jour, ainsi 
que les efforts fournis pour améliorer son économie et prendre une part active au développement 
des règles commerciales internationales.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  4.186.   Nous voulons a ussi saluer le rapport qui a été présenté mais surtout les observations faites 
par l'Ambassadeur  Dwarka -Canabady à cet effet, qui reflète la suffisante, l'état de l'économie de la 
Guyana ainsi que ses efforts dans le multilatéralisme international et d'aut res domaines.  
4.187.   Il y a lieu de saluer les actions de la Guyana en matière de développement de l'économie 
verte. Ici cela est significatif au regard de la taille de cet état et de ses efforts à prendre à cœur la 
question de la durabilité dans ses politiques p ubliques en matière de développement de son 
économie. C'est ainsi que la Guyane a significativement contribué à la préservation et la 
reconstitution des espèces maritimes dans ses eaux; et nous voulons vivement saluer cela.  
4.188.   Il faut aussi dire que nous avon s pris bonne note du fait que les développements du secteur 
touristique de loisirs ont bénéficié des ressources nouvelles provenant de l'extraction de l'énergie 
fossile mais aussi de son ouverture à d'autres secteurs économiques; à savoir la finance; d'aut res 
éléments qui de manière intégrée, lui donne le niveau de croissance qui pourrait paraître envieux 
en temps de crise. Et ceci est à féliciter. Et nous voulons ensuite dire à la Guyana que le Groupe 
africain, que le Cameroun lui souhaite plein succès qua nt à la présentation de son quatrième rapport 
périodique.  
4.189.   Nous voulons aussi apprécier, à ce sujet, la contribution du Secrétariat à la documentation 
ainsi que la présentation dudit rapport.  
4.190.   Nos chaleureux remerciements ainsi qu'appréciations eu l'égard des autorités de la Guyana 
et ainsi que de leur Ministre qui ont pris part à ces travaux et qui nous ont nourri de leur vision et 
de leurs échanges. Nous réitérons nos disponibilités à travailler constructivement avec la Guyana 
dans différents fora à l'effet de promouvoir les intérêts communs qui lient nos deux peuples et nos 
économies ainsi que les continents, à l'effet de renforcer les liens d'amitié qui lient la Guyana et 
l'Afrique.  
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS (SECOND DAY)  
FIJI 
4.191.   Fiji welcomes the delegation of Guyana headed by the Honourable Minister  Deodat  Indar 
linking in online from Georgetown, we also welcome and recognise Ms Kerrlene  Wills, 
Chargé  d'Affaires  for its fourth  Trade Policy Review, one of the reviews that continues to  manifest 
the resilience of small economies in the midst of the challenges posed by the COVID -19 pandemic. 
We also welcome the discussant H .E. Ambassador Dwarka -Canabady  and look forward to a 
successful discussion.  
4.192.   As a small economy, Guyana 's fourth  Trade Policy Review provides a comprehensive and 
detailed report that could best be replicated in small economies.  
4.193.   Firstly, the Government 's prudent financial management, further complemented by the gains 
attributed by the oil and gas sector is important, whils t Guyanese economy strives to gain more 
from natural gas and oil, it also ensures that regulatory framework exists that safeguards all aspects 
of its economic development. The management of oil and gas in developing countries is an issue 
which many economi es have struggled to manage effectively. The economy not only wishes to 
explore to gain financially for now but ensures sustainable harvesting of this critical natural resource 
bearing in mind the future Guyanese generation.  
4.194.   Secondly, with the economies pu rsuance for open market and to further diversify its 
economy to other sectors asides its traditional industries as reported in its last Review, the Guyanese 
economy is on track to be one of the most advanced small economies in the near future. Open 
market economy in small economies is always a challenge in view of the infant industries and the 
competitive nature of industries. We have witne ssed Guyana 's testament in particular its explosive 
growth rate directly contributing to its upsurge in GDP and per  capita income at a time when most 
economies headed downwards as the result of the C OVID -19 pandemic.  
4.195.   As a small island developing nation, Fi ji could attest to the challenges faced by Guyana in its 
report to mitigate the challenges faced by its economy as directly posed by the C OVID -19 pandemic, 
climate change and natural disasters. Many small economies are on the forefront of climate extremes WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  and are unfortunately left isolated to fend for themselves despite their limited to no contributions. 
Rebuilding the economy each year against the limited export options and high trade costs continue 
to discriminate small economies. Financial markets remai n high reach and those who need assistance 
more are provided less and remain constrained. We noted however the contributions by Guyana 
through its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 with a focus on renewable energy which 
is closely linked to simil ar policies provided by the Government of Fiji.  
4.196.   In addition, Fiji acknowledges Guyana 's report being compiled in the midst of the pandemic. 
In this regard, Fiji recognizes and thanked Guyana 's Charg é d'Affaires Ms  Kerrlene  Wills for her 
leadership, active  engagement, hard work and dedication. We also recognized and thank the staff 
of the Guyana Mission for their continued support not only in this review but through our close work 
relations in the WTO and other organizations as small delegations in Geneva w ithin the ACP and 
SIDS forum.  
4.197.   In closing, Fiji thanks the Government of Guyana and conveys its gratitude to the delegation 
of Guyana as well as the WTO Secretariat for this report and wishes the delegation a successful 
review and continued prosperity in th e years ahead.  
UKRAINE  
4.198.   Ukraine would like to e xtend a very warm welcome to the delegation of Guyana led by 
Honourable Mr Deodat  Indar , Minister of Public Works . We appreciate the significant work of the 
Chair, the WTO Secretariat, the discussant, and the G overnment of Guyana to prepare for this 
review.  
4.199.   We all acknowledge the efforts undertaken by the Government of Guyana to improve its 
trade and investment environment and to take all challenges caused by various factors including the 
COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.200.   On a bilateral level, Ukraine considers Guyana to be a prospective trading partner. Ukraine 
is convinced that regardless of the disaster in Ukraine made by the Russian aggression and 
challenges, we can continue developing our trade and economic relations.  
4.201.   Ukraine is convinced that military aggression of one WTO Member towards another WTO 
Member puts the trading system in an unprecedented situation that cannot allow us to conduct 
business as usual.  
4.202.   We would like to thank those Members that speak up and stand al ong with Ukraine in 
countering Russian  military invasion. The United  Nations General Assembly a few days ago adopted 
by overwhelmingly majority of 141  members States a resolution in which the international 
community deplores in the strongest terms  the aggr ession by the Russian  Federation against 
Ukraine.  
4.203.   We are grateful to our allies,  Guyana, CARICOM group, and partners, who stand shoulder to 
shoulder with Ukraine today.  
UNITED  STATES   
4.204.   The United  States would briefly like to reiterate what it stated on day one of the TPR, that is 
that the United  States reiterates our  strongest support for Ukraine during this unimaginably difficult 
time. We wish to pay tribute to the heroism of the Ukrainian people, their armed forces, and leaders. 
The United  States conde mns the Russian  Federation's unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.205.   The EU condemns in the strongest possible terms the invasion of Ukraine by the armed 
forces of the Russian  Federation. We call on the Russia n Federation  immediately t o end its acts of 
aggression and we stand firmly by Ukraine and its people.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.206.   We would like to reiterate that the Korean Government strongly condemns 
Russia n Federation' s armed invasion against Ukraine . The use of force leading to the loss of innocent 
lives cannot be justified under any circumstance. Ukraine 's sovereignty, territorial integrity , and 
political independence must be respected.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF GUYANA  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  I would like to thank Member States for their interest in our Trade Policy Review, evidenced 
from the several questions that have been posed. With regard to the questions that were sent to us 
in advance, I am aware that some of them remain unanswered. We are collaborating with our 
stakeholders to ensure that they are dealt with appropriately and our responses submitted as soon 
as possible.  
Notifications and honouring of Guyana's obligations  
5.2.  With regard to notifications and honouring of Guyana 's obligations, we acknowledge that there 
have been some lapses and shortcomings. These are however by no means reflective of the level of 
Guyana’s commitment to the WTO and the multilateral trading system. Like many small countries, 
Guyana is faced with severe capacity constraints. It is our intent ion, following this session, to take 
advantage of the technical assistance and capacity building support available within the Secretariat 
to work to ensure that the outstanding obligations related to notifications are adequately addressed.  
5.3.  Similarly, with  respect to addressing the tariff lines with applied rates that are above Guyana 's 
WTO bound rates, as stated in the reports, it was Guyana 's intention to have these resolved before 
this fourth  Trade Policy Review. However, owing to the Parliamentary Agend a we have not yet been 
able to finalize the process that had commenced. Guyana wishes to assure distinguished Member 
States that the requisite actions are being taken.  
5.4.  Proceeding with the issue of tariffs, I wish to clarify that the discriminatory aspect of the 
environmental tax on non -returnable bottles was addressed many years ago by Guyana. The 
relevant law was amended to include local bottles as well.  
5.5.  Guyana does not apply nor offer any export subsidies and our situation with regard to state 
trading en terprises has not changed since the 2015 -2016 Trade Policy Review.  
5.6.  Government procurement is administered via the National Procurement and Tender 
Administration Board and is governed by the Procurement Act of 2003 and the Procurement 
Amendment Act of 2019. The Government of Guyana is keen on and promotes transparency, 
fairness, and accountability in acquiring materials, thus all invitations to bids and tenders are 
published on NPTAB 's website and in the local media.  
5.7.  The Government of Guyana has noted calls by various Member States for Guyana to join and 
participate in the ongoing Joint Statement Initiative negotiations, especially in domestic services 
regulation, electronic commerce , and investment facilitation for development. Guyana is cognizant 
of the crucial impact the outcome of these negotiations will have on the development of the services 
and e -commerce sector, as well as on the flow of FDI. The Government has been keenly monitoring 
developments in these negotiations and we continue to work with in the regional frame to determine 
how best to participate in the JSI process.  
Services sector  
5.8.  The service s sector in Guyana is a major contributor to the country 's economy, and in 2013, 
services were estimated to account for 60.4% of Guyana's GDP. There w as continued annual growth 
in the sector until 2020, due to COVID -19 pandemic. Thus, Guyana recognizes the importance of 
the services sector especially to the emerging oil and gas industry. It is with this in mind that Guyana 
is strategically positioning i tself to strengthen the sector by implementing favourable economic 
policies that will enable the sector to grow. Enacting supporting legislation is also being considered.  
5.9.  In this regard, with the assistance of the TradeCom  II Project under the ACP -EU coope ration, 
Guyana commissioned a study trade in services and received the final report at the end of this 
past January, which will be used to assist in further streamlining the sector. In collaboration with 
our local private sector partners, the Government is  assisting and facilitating the resuscitation of the 
Guyana Coalition of Services Providers.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  Mainstreaming gender in trade 
5.10.   We are cognizant of the importance of taking concrete steps to include and create space for 
gender balanced relations not only withi n our trade policy but within wider society. Women are 
represented in all economic sectors including the oil and gas, mining, agriculture, services, and 
procurement of all other supplies. It should be noted that at the tertiary education level women are 
estimated to represent around 80% of the student population, with more women pursuing business 
courses and engineering for the oil and gas sector. We have been making strides at inclusivity, we 
acknowledge that there remains room for improvement and the Gove rnment is intent on taking the 
necessary and requisite steps and actions.  
Status of FLEGT negotiations  
5.11.   The FLEGT Voluntary Partnership, having formally commenced in December  2012, was 
initialled in November  2018. This Agreement once ratified and implement ed will see "green lane " 
access for agreed timber and timber products to the European  Union market, a market which has 
significant potential for growth.   
5.12.   With the development of a Joint Implementation Framework (JIF), and technical support from 
the UK and  other donors, a series of implementation activities have commenced to date. Some key 
pieces of work completed includes the development of a Communication Strategy and the 
development of a FLEGT website, which was recently launched. Capacity building sessi ons have also 
been held with officers of the Forestry Commission and a learning event was held, which focused on 
barriers to compliance for forest sector operators (FSOs). Supporting the implementation of the VPA 
is the National Technical Working Group (NI WG) and the FLEGT Secretariat.  
5.13.   The EU has pledged further support under its Multi -year Indicative Program (MIP) and also 
more direct support is being received through an implementing partner, the French Development 
Agency (AFD).  
5.14.   More recently and at the more formal level, a Pre -Joint Monitoring and Review Committee 
(JMRC) meeting will be held in the coming days. This Committee oversees the VPA implementation 
at the broader policy level and will be having technical and other discussions f rom the period 
8-10 March  2022 in Guyana.  
5.15.   These discussions will see agreement on a number of key issues including the formation of a 
Government Coordination Body (GCB) and modalities on funding mechanisms being put in place. 
Proposed Ratification dates will also be discus sed and agreed upon during these meetings.  
Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS)  
5.16.   In October  2021, His Excellency the President of Guyana Dr  Mohamed  Irfaan  Ali launched the 
updated and expanded LCDS . The LCDS 2030 seeks to (i) integrate Guyana 's forest climate services 
with emerging global carbon markets;  (ii) support Guyana 's economic transformation through 
cleaner, cheaper energy;  (iii) invest in adaptation to climate change and building resilience, so that 
the extreme impacts of floods, drought s, and other weather events can be lessened in the future; 
and (iv) contribute to the global effort to address climate change and biodiversity loss of responsible 
management of natural resources as integration with carbon markets advances, and the oil and gas 
sector.  
5.17.   The revised Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 sets out objectives for 
development with explicit statement of suggestion of the support services required to realise the 
objectives of the strategy aimed at maintaining Guyana 's forests intact, while receiving payments 
for the positive environmental contribution. The LCDS also obliges the promotion of new and 
modified forms of economic activity to replace income earning activities that have traditionally 
involved forest clearing.  
Oil and gas sector  
5.18.   The oil and gas sector in Guyana is a sunrise industry. In December  2021, Guyana enacted 
the historic Local Content Act  2021 which addresses the need to ensure that are opportunities are 
available for citizens of Guyana. I should underscore that  this legislation is very similar to the laws 
in the region and across the globe. Guyana has a supportive framework that is conducive to WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  participation by foreign firms and investment, which is also enshrined in section  9, subsection  2 
under Procurement Sub  Plan (1) of the Local Content Act of 2021 and caters not only to the oil and 
gas sector but to other economic sectors, where Guyana needs strategic partners.  
5.19.   As you are all aware, Guyana recently became an oil producing and exporting country, with 
approxi mately 28  commercially viable oil discoveries to date in the Stabroek Block and an estimated 
recoverable resource of over 10  billion oil -equivalent barrels. Guyana will act strategically and 
responsibly as the sector develops, supporting global energy secu rity while diversifying and 
decarbonising Guyana 's domestic economy and investing in development priorities for all Guyanese, 
including health, education , and low -carbon opportunities.  
5.20.   At the same time, the Government will advocate internationally for a s trong global carbon 
price and the removal of subsidies on fossil fuel –to incentivise the lowest carbon, most cost -effective 
oil and gas in the global marketplace in line with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement under 
which there will be demand for de cades to come. In parallel, Guyana will advance environmentally 
friendly practices and mandate the use of best technology in the  oil and gas sector to limit its 
environmental impact.  
5.21.   The Government recognises that Guyana will need to align development of its oil and gas 
sector with global trends towards decarbonization and aims to do this through two  strategic 
objectives .  
5.22.   First, e nsuring a domestic low -carbon transition . Guyana intends to achieve ambitious 
domestic targets of maintaining it s position as a net -zero economy, prioritising action on forests, 
low-carbon energy and transportation. Guyana 's non -forest emissions can continue to stay low as 
the country grows its economy, while the forest will continue to sequester carbon and sustain the 
country 's status as a net absorber of carbon. With the right economic incentives, ecosystem services 
can provide an at -scale diversification opportunity for Guyana, reducing the need to pursue 
high-carbon economic pathways.  
5.23.   Second, p articipating in a global low -carbon transition . The majority of Guyana 's oil and gas 
will be sold in the global marketplace. The Government believes that this market needs to develop 
in alignment with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, specifically, to stabilise glob al 
temperature increases at less than 1.5  degrees  Celsius above pre -industrial levels.  
The Natural Resources Fund  
5.24.   With the development of the oil and gas industry and the highly anticipated increased revenue 
Guyana had enacted the Natural Resource Fund (N RF) Act 2019 which has been repealed and a new 
NRF Act  2021 enacted, with necessary improvement to properly manage the revenue for the 
Guyana 's posterity. The Act seeks to "establish the Natural Resource Fund to manage the natural 
resource wealth of Guyana for the present and future benefit of the people and for the sustainable 
development of the country, and for connected matters ". The fund is managed by the Bank of 
Guyana and plans are currently underway to operationalize it.  
5.25.   As Guyana plans to tra nsition from the use of fossil fuels while at the same time ensuring 
energy sufficiency and efficiency the Government has undertaken to develop hydro, solar and wind 
energy to provide access to cheap and clean sources of fuel to citizens of Guyana. Transit ioning to 
these clean energy resources provides investment opportunities to which we invite our strategic 
partners to consider.  
5.26.   The Government of Guyana is also a implementing a transformational Gas -to-Energy Project 
to facilitate phasing out the use of ca rbon-intensive heavy fuel oil. This project encompasses the 
establishment of a power plant to generate power as well as a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) plant that 
will cover domestic demand.  
Future trade policy plans 
5.27.   The policies and priorities are directed a t sustained economic growth, increased employment 
and entrepreneurship opportunities, as well as access to improved standards of social services, 
including access to health care, clean water, and sanitation. In this regard, our trade policy priorities 
will be so oriented to develop and create initiatives and relationships with our global partners that WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  would ensure the realization of these ideals. The work that was started on the trade strategy will be 
completed, taking on board the new oil and gas industry,  giving greater prominence to the services 
sector with increased focus on gender and environmental considerations.  
5.28.   In view of the anticipated increased economic activity, the Government of Guyana will be 
embarking on a legislative agenda to enact the legi slation to support and improve the business 
environment, aiming at ensuring fair trade and competition on the market. In this regard the 
Government intends to finalise the enactment of legislation on trade remedies, including 
anti-dumping and subsidies and countervailing measures legislation. The concomitant institutions 
have already started the work on these pieces of legislation. We are keen to improve the 
transparency and predictability in the institutions to encourage and give comfort to external 
invest ors.  
5.29.   Some Member States have raised concerns about Guyana 's intellectual property rights 
legislation. With technical support from the World Intellectual Property Organisation and other 
partners, Guyana aims to continue the necessary work in updating the s uite of IPR legislation. The 
Government will also continue to work with the regional partners to harmonise the implementation 
of legislation dealing with intellectual property rights.  
5.30.   Guyana has already taken a leadership role on the regional front regardi ng food and nutrition 
safety and security and will continue along that path. This will see the ramping up of agricultural 
production, agro -processing, and agri -business, as a major productive sector going forward. The 
Government will work to ensure that no t only Guyana, but the entire CARICOM region is self -
sufficient in it nutritional and food requirements, with a view to reducing on the food import bill and 
ensuring food security.  
5.31.   Guyana noted Member States ' interventions that highlighted the unexploited opportunities in 
the tourism sector. The Government of Guyana has already embarked on a programme to develop 
the tourism sector with synergies from the other service s sectors. In this respect, our 
tourism -supporting infrastructure, including roads airports  and tourist sites is being upgraded and 
hotel accommodation as well as other related facilities are being enhanced. Work has started on the 
development, branding and advertising Guyana 's unique tourism products, within the broad 
Caribbean region. Guyana i s also actively pursuing the possibility of introducing additional air -lift 
services. Major effort will be devoted to skills and human resource development in the sector.  
5.32.   The Government of Guyana wishes to acknowledge the kind remarks from distinguished 
Member States, as well as the ACP, CARICOM and OECS Group of countries. We look forward to 
continued support as we develop our trade policy.  
5.33.   In closing, the Government of Guyana has issued its statement on the situation of Ukraine on 
24 February  2022, clear ly outlining our government's position on the situation.  
DICUSSANT  
5.34.   Guyana 's Trade Policy Review at this fourth  session has brought to the fore the profile of a 
country, which whilst remaining a small and vulnerable economy, is in the face of a major econo mic 
overhaul as an oil producing nation. Guyana has approached this development with caution, 
exercising due diligence to find the most sustainable way of managing this revenue for the benefit 
of the people and future generations.  The successful operation of the Natural Resource Fund will no 
doubt be the key instrument for this purpose.  
5.35.   We note that Members have shown keen interest in Guyana 's Trade Policy Review and some 
18 Members made statements to comment on the development in Guyana 's trade policy sinc e the 
last review. They also brought to the fore their bilateral economic relations, raising trade related 
concerns where necessary.  
5.36.   Guyana clearly enjoys the support of the C ARICOM  and Latin  American region with which it 
maintains close relations and indeed has preferential trading agreements. Many Members across the 
world also intervened to highlight the relations that bind them to Guyana and their interest in the 
developments of the country.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  5.37.   Guyana was commended by several Members for re -affirming its commitment in the 
multilateral trading system, and its sincere wish to comply with the obligations that arise from this 
Membership. Guyana is aware that it has certain tariff lines exceeding bou nd rates and is working 
on this. Guyana was encouraged by Members to notify trade related legislation including customs 
valuation legislation and to seek to build capacity on the domestic front so as to meet its notification 
obligations.  
5.38.    I thank Guyana fo r affirming that it maintains no subsidies in state -trading enterprises. From 
a discussant's perspective, Guyana is among those small countries where the production of a single 
commodity is sometimes so small that you have no choice but just to pull the na tional production 
together to be able to export it. This is a reality that we need to try to acknowledge in our discussions 
in the WTO.  
5.39.   Many Members commended positively on Guyana 's efforts to diversify its economy including 
expand the services sector and  develop the high potential in the area of agriculture.  
5.40.   Guyana also deserves to be commended on its open -trade and investment regime and for the 
efforts it is constructively making to connect the country both on the national front and with the 
global commu nity. 
5.41.   With the setting up of the Innovation Council this year, Guyana was encouraged to adhere to 
WIPO Administrated Treaties and therefore provide greater IP protection.  
5.42.   The update of t he Low Carbon Strategy of Guyana which also spans Forest Governance is  
impressive and was favourably acknowledged  by most delegations . The Minister elaborated further 
on this issue in his statement making the link with biodiversity and with climate change.  
5.43.   Minister Deodat  Indar was also very forthcoming in explaining how Guy ana perceives its 
future development and the country 's determination to get the balance between the Low Carbon 
Strategy and the development of the oil and gas sector right. We thank him and his team for the 
very frank answers provided and their constructiv e engagement with Members in this process.  
5.44.   Let me conclude by congratulating Guyana on a successful Review and to wish it a very bright 
future.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.45.   On behalf of the United  States, I would like to thank the Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister 
of Public Works, Chargé d'Affaires  Kerrlene  Wills, and the members the Guyana delegation for the 
time and effort your government invested in preparing for and carrying out this successful Trade 
Policy Review.  The United  States also values the gu idance of the Chair and discussant and the hard 
work of the Secretariat in preparing the reports, which made this review possible.  
5.46.   We would also like to recognize the tremendous amount of work Guyana dedicated to 
providing written responses to the questio ns we posed during this review and look forward to 
receiving outstanding responses.  We look forward to further bilateral engagement on those 
responses.  
5.47.   We would also take this opportunity to encourage Guyana to increase its WTO transparency 
efforts and to submit its many outstanding notifications as soon as possible. We welcome the 
Minister's statement that Guyana  does plan  to take advantage of available technical assistance to 
achieve this goal.  
5.48.   The United  States congratulates Guyana on a successful TPR.  
5.49.   The United  States would like to reiterate a point delivered on Wednesday. The United  States 
will cooperate and work with any Member or Observer seeking accession to the WTO, that is 
committed, as are we, to the values of the WTO, including a mutual desire for our peoples to live 
and thrive in a fair , rules-based system.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.50.   The EU would like t o thank Guyana for the responses provided to the advanced questions. We 
note that some of the replies do not address the substance of our questions and some  replies by 
Guyana are still to be submitted.  
5.51.   The EU also sent some follow -up questions in particular regarding taxation and we look 
forward to all the outstanding replies in due course.  
5.52.   The exchanges in the TPR show that there is room for improvement in terms of Guyana's 
trade and investment environment. We really encourage Guyana to strengthen its capacity to better 
fulfil its transparency on notification obligations. We also encourage Guyana to actively participate 
in the different work fronts of the WT O. 
5.53.   In conclusion, we would like to thank the delegation of Guyana for undertaking this important 
transparency exercise and demonstrating its commitment to the WTO. We are very confident that 
our good cooperation will continue.  
JAPAN   
5.54.   Allow me to reiterate, likewise as we made during the first day of the TPR of Guyana that the 
Russian  Federation's aggression to Ukraine seriously infringes upon sovereignty rights and territorial 
integrity of Ukraine and is a violation of international law. We, toget her with the international 
community, address the situation while standing alongside Ukraine and its people . 
5.55.   Coming back to the TPR of Guyana, we appreciate Guyana's effort conducting a successful 
TPR and look forward to receiving its answers to our writte n questions . 
REPRESENTATIVE  OF GUYANA  (MR DEODAT  INDAR)   
5.56.   Thank you Chair for according me the opportunity to record my country's profound 
appreciation to all present for being here with us as Guyana concludes its fourth  Trade Policy Review. 
I would like to  take this opportunity to thank the WTO Secretariat and especially the Trade Policies 
Review Division for working with us to bring us to this favourable conclusion.  
5.57.   Her Excellency Ambassador Usha Chandnee Dwarka -Canabady, thanks you for agreeing to 
and ser ving as discussant in this review. For framing and setting the pace for the rich and fruitful 
discussions that we had over the past two days.  
5.58.   To our CARICOM and ACP colleagues, we are grateful for your usual support and solidarity. 
To those Member States w ho have submitted questions, we appreciate them, and we thank you for 
the keen attention that you have paid towards this review.  
5.59.   As we move forward, I wish to reiterate the Government of Guyana's commitment to the 
ideals of a rules -based multilateral trad ing system. We undertake to remain engaged at all levels to 
ensure that the World Trade Organization is reflective of our collective and common ideals.  
5.60.   On our side, let me reiterate that we will take the necessary actions towards developing the 
critical ca pacity to honour our reporting obligations and commitments to guarantee the transparency 
required by the WTO, as well as aid us in strengthening our trade policy.  
5.61.   It is our hope that as we continue in our preparations for the MC12 we will redouble our eff orts 
to ensure that we have tangible results in fisheries subsidies negotiations, as well as workable 
proposals towards the reform of the Organization and the dispute settlement mechanism.  
5.62.   Madame Chair, I would also like to thank you for chairing this revi ew for Guyana.  You have 
been excellent and we thank you for that.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  5.63.   In closing, please allow me to publicly recall my gratitude to all of Guyana's officials who have 
collaborated and assisted in this process. Excellencies, I thank you for your engagement and  for 
your inputs in this enriching TPR.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The fourth  Trade Policy Review of Guyana has provided us with a good opportunity to 
understand the trade and related policies of Guyana since its last review in 2015 and acknowledge 
the challenges it faces. The Review has benefitted from the constructive and informat ive participation 
of Guyana's delegation, headed by the Honourable Mr  Deodat  Indar, Minister within the Ministry of 
Public Works, from the insightful comments of the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador  Usha Chandnee 
Dwarka -Canabady, Permanent Representative of Mau ritius to the WTO, and from the 20  delegations 
that took the floor during this meeting.  
6.2.  Members appreciated that Guyana's real GDP grew steadily between 2016 and 2019 and, as 
Guyana is now able to tap into its petroleum wealth, it has become one of the fastest growing 
economies in the world. Members commended Guyana's monetary and fiscal policies and efforts to 
diversify its economy, develop its infrastructure, and add value to its exports. Members were 
interested in understanding better the effects of G uyana's large offshore oil resources on the 
domestic economy. Guyana was encouraged to invest revenue from the oil and gas sector into 
healthcare, education, key economic sectors, and infrastructure. Some Members supported Guyana's 
efforts towards good gov ernance and inclusive and sustainable development. They commended its 
adoption of a strategy to develop low -carbon resources and environmentally friendly economic 
policies, and encouraged Guyana to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels progressively. Membe rs 
recognized challenges Guyana faced as a result of the COVID -19 pandemic, and hoped that its 
macroeconomic stability and projected growth would result in an improvement in employment and 
well-being of its population.  
6.3.  Members applauded Guyana's active par ticipation in, and contribution to, the work of the 
multilateral trading system, including fisheries subsidies negotiations, agriculture, initiatives on 
gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as micro, small  and medium sized enterprises. 
They not ed Guyana's advocacy for special and differential treatment for small and vulnerable 
economies in the ongoing negotiations. Members welcomed that Guyana adopted a number of trade 
facilitation measures. They appreciated Guyana's submission of its Category A , B, and C 
commitments and ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and noted that Guyana has 
implemented about 83% of the Agreement. Guyana was urged to submit to the WTO outstanding 
notifications, such as those on customs valuation, import licen sing, subsidies and state trading. 
Some Members invited Guyana to communicate its technical assistance needs to other Members. 
Guyana was also encouraged to consider participating in various WTO initiatives, including the 
Information Technology Agreement, the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structural 
Discussions, and Joint Initiatives concerning, for example, services domestic regulation, 
e-commerce, investment facilitation for development, and trade and sustainability, as well as the 
General Counci l decision on transparency.  
6.4.  Members recognized Guyana's efforts in regional trade agreements, such as those under 
CARICOM, for integration in the region and into the global economy.  
6.5.  Members encouraged Guyana to pursue a more business -friendly regulatory and investment 
environment, and commended its efforts so far. They noted Guyana's recent initiatives to facilitate 
trade and investment, such as the announcement to implement an electronic single window system, 
and the temporary reduction in 2022 of tariff s, excise taxes and value -added taxes on imports. 
Members noted that Guyana had eliminated some differential treatment between locally produced 
goods and imports; and regretted that new issues arose later on. Some Members wondered how the 
framework of the recently adopted local content policy might affect existing joint ventures and create 
additional barriers to foreign investment.  
6.6.  Guyana was urged to rectify a longstanding situation where some applied tariff rates exceeded 
their corresponding bound rates. Members considered that increased transparency is required in 
government procurement. Members were interested in Guyana's new copyright legislation and its 
plans to modernize intellectual property laws.  
6.7.  Guyana's commitment to combatting illegal logging an d strengthening forest governance was 
highlighted. Members encouraged Guyana to take further regulatory reforms in its services sectors, 
including tourism. The hope was expressed that Guyana would improve its commitments to financial 
services and telecommu nications based on the discussions in the GATS extension negotiations.  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  6.8.  These are some of the key issues that emerged from our discussion. I hope that the delegation 
of Guyana will consider and further reflect on these issues and on the many constructive co mments 
that it has received during this review. Guyana received 162  written questions from 10  Members, 
and has already responded to the majority of them. Members look forward to receiving written 
answers to any outstanding or follow -up questions within a m onth, at which point the Review will be 
successfully concluded.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 207 
 
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  7  ELECTION OF THE NEW TPRB CHAI RPERSON  
7.1.  You may recall that the Airgram of 25  February  2022 (WTO/AIR/TPR/123/Add.1) presented us 
with an additional task today, that is the election of a new Ch airperson of this body.  
7.2.  At its meeting on 24  February  2022, the General Council noted consensus on the slate of names 
of Chairpersons for WTO Bodies, including the Permanent Representative of Mexico, H.E.  Mr Ángel 
Villalobos Rodríguez as the Chairperson o f the Trade Policy Review Body.  
7.3.  In accordance with the rules of procedure of this Body, I have the pleasure to propose that 
Members of the Trade Policy Review Body elect, by acclamation, H.E.  Ambassador  Villalobos 
Rodríguez as the Chairperson for 2022.  
7.4.  It is so agreed. Thank you. I would suggest that Members of the TPRB confirm their support 
for his election with a round of virtual applause.  
7.5.  Now, I would like to invite Ambassador Villalobos Rodríguez to join me at the podium.  
7.6.  As I handover the gavel, I wi sh Ambassador Villalobos Rodríguez every success in the year 
ahead. I would like to thank you, all the Members, for your cooperation and invaluable assistance 
during this past year. Since I was elected Chairperson on 19  March  2021 under particularly specia l 
circumstances, I have had the privilege to chair many TPRB meetings all via the Interprefy platform 
in hybrid format. In total 16  meetings to consider Members' trade policies took place, including 
three  meetings that were chaired by General Council or DS B Chairpersons on my behalf, and 
two meetings to consider the Director -General's trade monitoring reports. I am very grateful for the 
support given to me during this period by all Members, in particular the flexibility shown by the 
Members under review and  the commitment of the discussants.  
7.7.  I am convinced that the work we did in the TPRB over the past year, despite the persisting 
difficult circumstances since the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic, has actually further improved 
the participation from capita ls and increased transparency in the multilateral trading system. I hope 
that this has also enhanced internal policy debate in the reviewed Member countries. During these 
times of uncertainty, it is important that we persevere and continue the important wo rk of the TPRM 
and more generally the transparency aspect of the MTS.  
7.8.  I would like to especially commend the TPR Secretariat team headed by Director Willy  Alfaro 
who have worked consistently hard to produce high quality documentation and made excellent 
logistical arrangements to the meetings. I thank them most sincerely for their invaluable professional 
guidance and support, from which I have learnt a great deal.  
7.9.  Finally, I would again like to sincerely thank everyone for your trust and cooperation during 
the past year, and I now hand over to Ambassador  Villalobos Rodríguez.  
H.E. MR ÁNGEL  VILLALOBOS  RODRÍGUEZ  
7.10.   I wish to thank my dear friend and colleague H.E.  Ambassador  Athaliah  Molokomme  for her 
kind words and praise her for the outstanding work done during the past year. I commend her 
efforts, passion , and guidance, particularly given the exceptional circumstances, and not minor 
challenges, that 2021 brought for us all.  
7.11.   I also wish to t hank you all for your trust and support in appointing me as the Chair of the 
Trade Policy Review Body. I am honoured and enthusiastic to take up this role; be assured that I 
will do my upmost to chair this Body in the most effective way possible. I have no  doubt that with 
your cooperation and lively participation, as well as the TPR Secretariat 's invaluable assistance, our 
work will move forward smoothly and successfully.  
 
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