By Josiah Williams
Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) marked the 50th anniversary of CARICOM by gifting President Dr. Irfaan Ali with a unique rum blend at State House today.
This gesture reflects DDL’s commitment to supporting regional integration through its renowned spirits.
Joining 12 other distillers from the West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA), DDL presented special blends to CARICOM Heads of Government, including Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, as part of the anniversary celebrations.
President Ali acknowledged the significant economic impact of Guyana’s rum industry, which generated over $50 million in exports in 2022.
He emphasized the need for Caribbean distillers to collaborate more closely to enhance their global competitiveness.
During the presentation, President Ali expressed his vision for a unified regional marketing strategy, urging distillers to integrate efforts to promote a collective Caribbean brand internationally.
He emphasized the importance of responsible consumption and industry growth.
The Treaty of Chaguaramas, signed on July 4, 1973, marked a historic step towards Caribbean unity.
CARICOM Day is annually observed on the first Monday of July, with this year’s celebration set for July 1 in Guyana.
DDL’s contribution underscores CARICOM’s mission to foster unity and economic growth across member states, promoting cultural exchange in the Caribbean region.