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>> Download PDF of this Press Release September 4, 2006 The National Aquaculture Association of Guyana and Guyana Trade and Investment Support Head to the Seventh International Symposium on Tilapia Aquaculture in Veracruz, Mexico GEORGETOWN—Representatives from The National Aquaculture Association of Guyana (NAAG) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) sponsored project, Guyana Trade and Investment Support (GTIS), will be attending this week’s Seventh International Symposium on Tilapia Aquaculture in Veracruz, Mexico from September 6-8. The Symposium will feature renowned tilapia biologists who will present workshops and scientific lectures on the latest discoveries in tilapia biology, ecology, production systems, and other technical aspects of using tilapia in aquaculture. The symposium will also include a trade show highlighting important industry suppliers, seafood marketers, and aquaculture press. Field trips to aquaculture sites near Veracruz will also be offered. Aquaculture in Guyana has thus far involved only small ventures, however, due to declining revenues from traditional sectors, and shrinking numbers of key marine species, focus is being placed on aquaculture as an important sector for Guyana’s future. A feasibility and marketing study were recently completed, showing that Guyana has good potential for large-scale, export-oriented aquaculture. The studies also revealed that aquaculture has the potential of growing into one of Guyana’s most profitable export sectors. NAAG members represent all elements of the industry, including farmers, entrepreneurs, feed producers, members of the government (research and development), and non-governmental organizations. NAAG also receives support from various donor agencies, including USAID/GTIS. The NAAG’s mission is the development of Guyana’s aquaculture sector; their vision is “Aquaculture is the leading economic sector in Guyana by 2015.” With assistance provided by USAID/GTIS, NAAG is also members of the American Tilapia Association and the World Aquaculture Society. Members of NAAG attending the fair include Tejnarine S. Geer, Senior Fisheries Officer, Department of Fisheries; Chandradat Carpen, East Coast Aquaculture; and Chion Profitt, Investment Officer, Guyana Office for Investment. GTIS representatives attending the fair are Joycelyn Williams, Trade Policy and Outreach Manager, and Kirk Smock, Public Affairs Specialist. The team will be meeting with investors, scientists, researchers, and industry suppliers in order to establish Guyana as a new location for aquaculture and gain assistance in developing the sector within Guyana. USAID provides assistance to private sector firms and organizations and government institutions to assist Guyana to become more competitive and develop export market opportunities.
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