Guyana’s President expresses concern after products rejected by T&T customs

In a recent development, Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali expressed concerns over Trinidad and Tobago’s refusal to accept a shipment of milk and water from Guyana, citing detrimental effects on regional integration efforts.

Scrutiny on Guyanese products raises alarm

Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) revealed on Tuesday that its consignment of packaged milk and flavored water faced intense scrutiny upon arrival at the Port of Spain.

DDL’s Chairman, Komal Samaroo, emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting its contradiction with regional free trade agreements and undermining efforts towards achieving regional food security objectives.

Regional integration efforts hindered

In a statement to the Caribbean News Desk (CND), President Ali, also chairing the 15-member regional integration movement, said that there are ongoing efforts to dismantle trade barriers and foster regional economic growth.

He underscored the importance of fostering trade cooperation to expand regional economies and create more opportunities for businesses across the Caribbean.

Trinidad and Tobago’s silence amplifies concerns

As Trinidad and Tobago has yet to officially address the issue, Minister of Trade and Industry, Paula Gopee-Scoon’s presence in Guyana for the 58th meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) raises eyebrows.

Call for compliance with regional agreements

Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Guyana reiterated the necessity for adherence to the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) protocols, condemning Trinidad and Tobago’s refusal as a violation of the spirit of Caribbean integration.

Emphasizing compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary standards, Guyana seeks a swift resolution to the matter to uphold the principles of regional cooperation and market access.

Trinidad and Tobago customs halts Guyanese dairy products and flavoured water