Association launched to modernise jewellery industry

Officials at today's launch

The Guyana Jewellers Association (GJA) was officially launched on Tuesday, marking a step toward strengthening and modernising the country’s jewellery sector. The launch was held at Duke Lodge, Georgetown, as part of the government’s ongoing Guyana Gold and Jewellery Development Strategy Programme (GG&JDSP).

The GJA will act as a unified representative body for jewellers, goldsmiths, gemstone suppliers, retailers, and related operators. It aims to improve industry standards, enhance competitiveness, support export readiness, and build consumer confidence in high-quality Guyanese jewellery.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat said the government remains committed to developing the gold value chain and supporting businesses across the jewellery sector. He stressed the importance of organisation, adherence to standards, and industry-wide collaboration.

Technical Consultant Dominic Gaskin outlined the association’s proposed framework, governance structure, membership categories, and objectives, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback and identify areas needing additional support.

Members elected the inaugural nine-member Board of the GJA, including Gowkaran Persaud as Chairman, Vade Persaud as Vice Chairman, Deborah Phillipe as Secretary, Rampersaud Gopaul as Treasurer, and Raj Persaud and Stephen Naraine as Directors, along with three ex officio representatives from government agencies. The Board will lead the early establishment phase and sector-development activities.

The event drew participants from across the jewellery value chain and representatives from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ministry of Tourism, and the Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners Association.

The Ministry of Natural Resources welcomed the formation of the GJA and said it looks forward to continued collaboration as the country advances its value-added gold and jewellery sector.