-by Celestine Chacon
Prime Minister Mark Phillips has officially launched Guyana’s hosting of the 56th Annual General Meeting, Conference and Exhibition of the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) on Wednesday evening.
The event was marked with a cocktail reception at the Aiden by Best Western Hotel, bringing together key stakeholders from Guyana’s maritime and shipping sector.
PM Phillips says Guyana’s selection as host reflects its increasing prominence in the regional maritime and logistics industry. He pointed to the rapid growth and transformation of Guyana’s maritime sector since 2020.
“Since 2020, vessel traffic has increased by approximately 42 percent, while import volumes have more than tripled as commercial activity has expanded across the economy,” he said.
The figures he added, underscore the urgent need for efficient ports, stronger logistics networks and modern maritime systems capable of supporting Guyana’s rapidly changing economic landscape.
“Shipping has always connected countries, supported trade, and created opportunities for economic development. As Guyana continues to grow, the maritime sector will remain central to our future. It deserves continued attention, sustained investment, and the benefit of shared regional experience,” the PM said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Guyana’s strategic position as both a CARICOM member and a South American nation places it in a unique position to serve as a bridge between Caribbean markets and continental trade.
And hosting the conference he noted, will allow Guyana to contribute directly to regional discussions while benefiting from the experiences of Caribbean neighbors and international partners.
The Caribbean Shipping Association’s 56th Annual General Meeting, Conference and Exhibition, which will be held in Georgetown from October 25 to 28, 2026.