The World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) is set to host a business luncheon on June 17, 2026, aimed at helping Guyanese companies better understand and capitalize on trade and investment opportunities with the United States.
The event, titled “Growing Business with the United States,” will feature internationally recognized trade expert Arun Venkataraman, a former senior U.S. government official with more than two decades of experience in international commerce, trade policy, and economic development.
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According to WTCG, the luncheon forms part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between Guyana and key international partners. As Guyana continues to expand its economic footprint and diversify its export markets, organizers say the event will provide businesses with direct access to valuable insights from one of the leading voices in U.S. trade policy.
Venkataraman served from 2022 to 2025 as the Senate-confirmed Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service within the International Trade Administration. During his tenure, he led initiatives designed to expand global commercial opportunities for American companies while supporting foreign firms seeking to invest and operate in the United States.
His responsibilities included facilitating international business transactions, addressing trade and investment barriers, improving commercial policy environments, and negotiating agreements aimed at strengthening economic cooperation between nations.
During the luncheon, Venkataraman is expected to outline current U.S. trade and commercial policies, available trade preferences, and other mechanisms that can assist Guyanese businesses seeking greater access to the American market. He will also discuss strategies for increasing exports, attracting investment, establishing strategic partnerships, and improving competitiveness in the global marketplace.
The event comes at a pivotal time as businesses worldwide navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics, evolving supply chains, and changing trade policies among major economies. These developments have heightened the importance of understanding U.S. trade policy, particularly for exporters seeking to remain competitive.
WTCG noted that recent adjustments to U.S. tariff policies affecting Guyana and other countries have created new challenges for exporters. The replacement of duty-free treatment for certain products with tariffs of up to 15 percent has underscored the need for businesses to stay informed and adapt their market strategies accordingly.
“Access to authoritative insights on U.S. trade policy has never been more valuable,” WTCG stated. “Businesses must understand both the challenges and opportunities emerging from the evolving U.S.-Guyana commercial relationship. This luncheon offers a unique opportunity to gain that understanding directly from a former senior U.S. trade official who helped shape and implement policy at the highest level.”
The organization believes that providing businesses with timely information and practical guidance is essential to ensuring Guyana fully benefits from its expanding economic opportunities and deepens its integration into regional and global value chains.
The session is expected to attract exporters, manufacturers, service providers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business support organizations. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with Venkataraman during a question-and-answer segment and networking discussions following the presentation.
As a member of the World Trade Centers Association network, which spans more than 300 centers in over 100 countries, WTCG says it remains committed to connecting Guyanese enterprises with global markets, expertise, and investment opportunities.
Members of the business community and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend.
