Companies interested in entering Guyana’s market are encouraged to visit      the country as business is preferred to be done on a face-to-face basis.  Firms are encouraged to conduct rigorous due diligence on any prospective partners and seek out reputable firms with a proven track record. Price, quality, and service are the three main factors to consider for the Guyanese market.  U.S. exporters should be aware that competition is strong, and buyers expect good after-sales service.

Many U.S. exporters successfully use agents or distributors to serve the Guyanese market. A local partner can expedite the startup phase of a business, assist with regulatory applications and approvals, and facilitate a speedier transition into the market.  Furthermore, in the oil and gas sector, there may be instances where partnering with a local company is viewed as mandatory to comply with the LCA.  Guyana’s business community is undergoing a rapid transformation due to the burgeoning oil and gas industry, and joint ventures, partnerships, exclusive arrangements, and franchising agreements are becoming common business practices.  The creation of special project vehicles is also becoming a popular arrangement for firms entering Guyana’s market. 

Local business support organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce can be useful with building relationships and providing connections to other business owners already operating in Guyana.  U.S. companies are encouraged to attend trade missions and webinars which provide context and lay the foundation for the development of local connections.  If bidding on government tenders, companies are encouraged to remain in close touch with all local partners on the ground and follow the tender directions closely.

Marketing and promotion are important. Companies benefit by exhibiting their products or services at local and regional trade shows, as well as at U.S. trade shows attended by Guyanese buyers. The U.S. Commercial Service brings Guyanese buyers to key trade shows in the United States and facilitates B2B matchmaking, in person and virtually. The U.S. Commercial Service also helps organize events for U.S. firms wishing to launch a new product or showcase their know-how in Guyana. 

The U.S. Commercial Service in Georgetown provides a wide range of services to help U.S. companies enter the market and expand operations in the country.