Guyana strengthens push for quality standards

The importance of strengthening measurement standards and quality systems was underscored on Thursday as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) hosted the Inter-American Metrology System Joint Council on Quality System Task Force Meeting and Metrology Symposium in Guyana for the first time.

Held at the Grand Coastal Hotel, along the East Coast of Demerara, the symposium brought together regional and international representatives to discuss the role of metrology in improving trade, consumer protection, and regulatory systems across Guyana.

Metrology is the science of measurement, encompassing all theoretical and practical aspects concerning measurement.

At the opening ceremony on Thursday, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Roger Rogers, said the symposium seeks to strengthen cooperation among countries, improve measurement infrastructure, and enhance confidence in goods and services through accurate and transparent systems.

He also underscored the importance of metrology across all sectors, particularly from the consumer, business, and regulatory perspectives.

PS Rogers highlighted that stronger metrology systems also contribute to safety, security, and sustainability while supporting national and regional economic growth. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued investment in standards, safety, and sustainable development initiatives.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of GNBS, Trevor Bassoo, said hosting the symposium and task force meetings demonstrates Guyana’s commitment to international standards and quality assurance systems.

He noted that the event provides an important platform for collaboration among regional and international experts in measurement standards and quality systems.

Bassoo highlighted that Guyana has benefitted significantly from technical training and support from Suriname, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia.

According to him, these partnerships have strengthened Guyana’s capacity to verify electricity metres, fuel measuring instruments, and packaged goods, improving national standards and enforcement systems.

He further emphasised that a strong and harmonised quality infrastructure is important for trade competitiveness and investor confidence, particularly as Guyana continues to expand its manufacturing and services sectors.

Bassoo said the symposium is expected to advance discussions on improving metrology systems that support consumer confidence and trade facilitation. [DPI]