The Government of Guyana is set to meet with local exporters on Saturday, April 12, 2025, to discuss the potential impacts of the recently imposed United States tariff on Guyanese goods. The meeting, led by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, aims to assess how exporters can be supported in light of the new trade policy.

The US administration has implemented a 10% baseline tariff on imports from Guyana, with plans for a steeper 38% reciprocal tariff targeting countries with significant trade surpluses. While major exports such as crude oil, bauxite ore, and gold are exempt from the tariff, agricultural goods—including fish, shrimp, processed foods, and fresh produce—are directly affected.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo emphasized the importance of engaging exporters to understand the challenges posed by the tariff. “Agriculture employs a large number of people in Guyana, and we need to ensure that livelihoods are protected,” he stated during a press conference on Thursday. Jagdeo also noted that while the reduction from the originally proposed 38% tariff is welcome, the government remains concerned about the broader economic impact.

The government plans to use a 90-day pause granted by the US on reciprocal tariffs to negotiate diplomatically for reduced rates. Jagdeo highlighted discrepancies between Guyana’s trade data and figures used by the US to calculate tariffs, suggesting that reconciling these differences could strengthen Guyana’s case for lower rates.

Exporters attending Saturday’s meeting will have an opportunity to share their concerns and explore strategies for mitigating losses. The government has pledged to provide support where possible while continuing diplomatic efforts to address the issue at its core.

This development underscores Guyana’s commitment to protecting its export-driven economy amid evolving global trade dynamics and ensuring that vulnerable sectors receive adequate attention during challenging times.