Shipping association says proposed Corentyne River fees could disrupt Guyana–Suriname trade

The Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG) on Saturday warned that proposed fees for the use of the Corentyne River by Guyanese vessel operators could disrupt cross-border trade and harm economic ties with Suriname.

The association said it had taken note of concerns raised by the business community over the potential introduction of the charges, cautioning that such a move could have “adverse implications for trade and commerce” between the two countries.

The Corentyne River serves as a key economic artery linking Guyana and Suriname, facilitating the movement of goods, services and people, particularly between Berbice and Nickerie. Any unilateral increase in costs or restrictions on access risks undermining this longstanding relationship, the SAG said.

The association also pointed to the growing interdependence between the two economies, noting that businesses on both sides of the border could be negatively affected if the fees are implemented without consultation.

It urged Surinamese authorities to refrain from introducing new charges until a mutually agreed solution is reached through formal negotiations between the two governments.

President Irfaan Ali has already raised concerns over the reported charges, describing them as a “troubling development” with implications for economic activity and longstanding arrangements between the neighbouring states.

Guyana has formally lodged a protest with Suriname with President Ali saying the issue was raised in the spirit of dialogue and mutual respect aimed at preserving bilateral ties.

He warned that such measures risk creating “unnecessary barriers to commerce” and could undermine business confidence, particularly for operators dependent on predictable cross-border arrangements.

Ali also stressed that reciprocity remains a guiding principle in relations between the two countries, noting that Surinamese businesses have long operated in Guyana without discrimination or restriction.

The shipping association said it remains committed to supporting dialogue to ensure the Corentyne River continues to function as a shared resource benefiting both nations.

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