Guyana and China share a long-standing bilateral relationship that has been nurtured over decades, dating back to the arrival of Chinese immigrants in Guyana. This partnership continues to grow, with Chinese nationals playing a significant role in the country’s economic and social development.
On January 31, 2025, the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Guyana (ACEG) hosted its annual dinner celebrating the Chinese New Year. The event highlighted the remarkable impact of Chinese nationals on Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy.
Speaking on behalf of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, acknowledged the contributions of Chinese nationals and their descendants to all aspects of national life.
Minister Singh emphasized that individuals of Chinese ancestry have made meaningful contributions across various sectors, including the judiciary, academia, business, and entrepreneurship. Reflecting on history, he noted that Guyana’s first President was a descendant of Chinese immigrants, underscoring the integral role of the Chinese community in the country’s progress.
Highlighting the diplomatic ties between the two nations, Minister Singh recalled that Guyana established relations with China shortly after gaining independence. In 2022, the two countries marked 50 years of diplomatic relations, a testament to their firm and enduring partnership.
Beyond economic contributions, Chinese culture and traditions have become part of Guyana’s diverse society, celebrated and embraced by all Guyanese. Chinese companies have also played a pivotal role in Guyana’s infrastructure development, including constructing the new Demerara Harbour Bridge and various road projects.
Minister Singh pointed to Guyana’s rapid economic expansion, projecting an annual growth rate of 30 percent. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in social infrastructure, particularly in education and healthcare, to ensure that all Guyanese and residents enjoy the highest quality of life.
Meanwhile, Chargé d’ Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Guyana, Huang Rui, highlighted the growing economic ties between the two countries. He noted that trade between China and Guyana had reached US$1.4 billion, marking a 14.4 percent annual increase. Additionally, Chinese enterprises have invested US$2.7 billion, bringing total investments to US$10.56 billion.
Huang commended Chinese businesses for contributing to Guyana’s economic transformation while adhering to local content laws. He also acknowledged their social responsibility efforts, which include donations to schools, orphanages, and nursing homes, and plans to establish smart classrooms, consulting rooms, and community kitchens.
Looking ahead, Huang emphasized the potential for deeper economic and trade cooperation between Guyana and China. He stated, “Guyana and China should enhance strategic communication and integrate China’s modernization strategy with Guyana’s economic and social transformation strategy.”
China aims to implement high-quality Belt and Road initiatives in Guyana and is eager to finalize cooperation agreements, including free trade and mutual visa-exemption agreements, to enhance economic collaboration and people-to-people exchanges.
He added, “We also want to follow up the MoU on standardization and hope that the MoU will be implemented in the areas of health care, telecommunication, new energy, etc. Last but not least, we will stand side by side with Guyana to increase transportation efficiency, facilitate digital economy transformation, and provide modern financial services. Let’s build the community with a shared future for our two nations with concrete actions.”
As Guyana and China continue to strengthen their partnership, both countries remain committed to fostering economic growth, enhancing bilateral trade, and deepening cultural and social exchanges for mutual prosperity.