Guyana to debut at Americas Food & Beverage Show

FOR the first time, a selection of products from Guyana will be showcased at the prestigious 27th Americas Food and Beverage Show and Conference, taking place from September 16-18, 2024, at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
This highly anticipated event is expected to feature 900 exhibitors and 20 country pavilions, with 7,300 attendees from 93 countries.

Guyana’s participation is spearheaded by the newly established World Trade Center Georgetown (WTCG), which is facilitating the exhibition of products from five local export-ready companies. Among the items on display will be Demerara Distillers Limited’s (DDL) internationally acclaimed El Dorado rums, fruit juices from its Tropical Orchard Products Co. (TOPCO), Roy’s Extra Quality Products’ packaged seasonings, Umami’s range of sauces, and BBQ sauces from SS Natural Fruit Flavored Inc.

The event, organised by the World Trade Center Miami, follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between the WTC Miami and WTC Georgetown, aimed at expanding trade by increasing product visibility and market access between the two regions.
Komal Samaroo, executive chairman of WTCG and DDL, highlighted the importance of Guyana’s participation, stating, “This is not just an opportunity for DDL’s El Dorado rums to gain exposure in Latin America and other untapped markets, but also for other local companies to seek new buyers and distributors across North America and beyond.” Samaroo emphasised that the initiative is part of WTCG’s mission to promote Guyana’s export-ready food and beverage products on the global stage.
Distribution Services Limited (DSL), a subsidiary of DDL, will also be represented at the show, exploring potential international products for distribution within Guyana.

Ivan Barrios, President and CEO of WTC Miami, expressed his excitement about Guyana’s participation. “Following the signing of an MoU between the World Trade Centers in Miami and Georgetown, I am elated that Guyana has chosen to exhibit for the first time at our internationally renowned show. Guyana’s presence will be among over 900 exhibitors, representing 20 nations from five continents.”

Ramsay Ali, President of the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA), applauded the initiative, noting that it demonstrates the export readiness of local companies. “This initiative showcases the potential of local businesses to compete on the global market. With corporate social responsibility programmes from major companies like DDL, we can continue to elevate Guyana’s presence internationally and drive development for our local entrepreneurs,” Ali said.

The event offers a unique business-to-business platform, bringing together manufacturers and buyers to forge partnerships and unlock new market opportunities. Guyana’s presence at the 2024 Americas Food & Beverage Show is poised to enhance its international trade prospects and create pathways for the continued growth of its local industries.