Local company to engage Brazilians on soya exports through Guyana
Also mulling barging of bauxite from Linden -Williams
Stabroek News
December 15, 2006
The Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) is preparing for discussions with Brazilian soya exporters the outcome of which could see the local company undertaking the transportation of soya produced in Brazil to international destinations via Linden and Georgetown.
While the Chief Executive Officer of GNIC Clinton Williams told Stabroek Business that talks on the initiative were yet to begin the disclosure gives rise to the possibility that the GNIC could be among the first local companies to transport cargo along the eagerly awaited Brazil-Guyana road link that promises to provide an optional, more economical sea route to international markets for Brazil's agricultural produce and manufactured goods.
Brazil is one of the world's largest producers of soya and Williams told Stabroek Business that soya produced in Brazil, specifically in those states close to that country's border with Guyana, is currently being exported through the sea port at Belem. "If that cargo were to moved to its international destinations through Guyana it would save at least seven days transit time." Williams said.
Williams told Stabroek Business that the talks will centre around moving Brazilian soya in containers across the Takatu Bridge to Linden and from Linden to Georgetown by barge.
The cargo will then be exported to foreign markets by sea. If agreement between GNIC and the Brazilians is reached the local company could also be instrumental in facilitating Imports of fertilizer and chemicals into Brazil for soya production. Bagged cement from the soon to be commissioned plant set up at the GNIC's complex facilities under an agreement with Trinidad Cement Ltd. (TCL) could also provide the basis fore backhaul cargo into Brazil.
While the outcome of the initiative is dependent on the completion of the Guyana/Brazil Road link the GNIC is already moving to create the physical infrastructure to accommodate what could be a ground-breaking business relationship between the neighbouring South American countries. The GNIC has moved to secure facilities in Linden through a lease arrangement with the Government of Guyana and a collaborative agreement with Omai Bauxite for the utilization of its wharf at Linden. Williams said that those facilities will provide adequate facilities for a container interchange station. Stabroek Business understands that the Linden Economic Advancement Programme (LEAP) has already indicated its intention to participate in the project as part of its development activities at Linden.
Williams also disclosed that the Linden facility could also see GNIC become involved in the movement of bauxite from Linden to Georgetown by barge from where it will be shipped overseas.