Guyana is taking steps to expand its presence in the regional maritime industry as growing offshore activity creates new opportunities for shipping, logistics and other marine services.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar discussed the sector’s development on Tuesday during a meeting with senior officials from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Hanwha Shipping, a major international company in maritime transport and logistics.
The meeting explored potential areas of cooperation and ways to support the continued development of Guyana’s maritime industry. Emphasis was placed on building domestic expertise and strengthening Guyana’s international profile as a flag State.
Minister Indar highlighted the country’s expanding offshore economy and strategic geographic position as key factors that could help Guyana establish itself as a major maritime centre in the region.
As offshore operations continue to expand, demand for vessels, shipping services, marine logistics, technical expertise and regulatory support is also expected to increase. Developing stronger local capabilities in these areas could create new employment opportunities and encourage specialised training and investment in the country’s blue economy.
The ABS delegation comprised Chairman and Chief Executive John McDonald, CEO of ABS Group of Companies Inc., Dave Wechsler, and Offshore Account Manager Gabrielle Caldas.
Chief Executive Officer James Sagar and Chief Commercial Officer Mark Stewart represented Hanwha Shipping.
Representatives from the Guyanese government and maritime authorities also attended the discussions. They included the Director General of the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Alfonso De Armas; Parliamentary Secretary Thandi McAllister, who is also Guyana’s representative to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO); and the Legal Director of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). MARAD Director General Captain Stephen Thomas also took part in the engagement.
The discussions come at a time when Guyana’s rapidly expanding offshore sector is driving increased maritime activity. This growth is increasing demand for transport, supply chain management, vessel operations, regulatory oversight, and specialised marine services.
Officials believe that improving Guyana’s international standing as a flag State could help the country secure a larger role in the regional maritime market. Building a stronger pool of locally trained professionals and developing the necessary regulatory and technical infrastructure will be important to achieving this objective.
Closer engagement with established international maritime organisations and shipping companies could also offer opportunities for knowledge transfer, technical cooperation and greater exposure to global industry standards.
The meeting with ABS and Hanwha Shipping marks another step in Guyana’s efforts to build a more capable and competitive maritime sector. As offshore economic activity continues to expand, the country is seeking to translate its natural and geographical advantages into long-term opportunities across the wider maritime and blue economy.