Wholesalers and retailers can expect stricter enforcement of labour laws as the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning moves to address persistent compliance problems in the sector.
Labour Minister Keoma Griffith issued the warning on Tuesday at a seminar attended by more than 100 business representatives at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, Georgetown. He said wholesale and retail continued to record the highest employee turnover in 2026 and that little progress had been made since the Private Sector Commission raised concerns about compliance in 2024.
Griffith urged employers to look at working conditions and address grievances that could be driving staff away. He also encouraged managers to recognise employees who have stayed with their businesses for years.
“When they perform at their best, your business will thrive. This industry will thrive. And Guyana thrives,” he said.
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Kathy Smith backed consistent enforcement, saying businesses that meet their obligations and invest in decent working conditions are put at a disadvantage when others disregard the rules.
“That is not good for workers, it is not good for responsible businesses, and ultimately, it is not good for Guyana,” Smith said.
She called for enforcement to go hand in hand with practical guidance, particularly for smaller businesses that may lack dedicated human resources staff or access to specialised legal advice.
Griffith said changes to Guyana’s labour laws are expected in the coming months following consultations with stakeholders, including the GCCI and the Private Sector Commission. He said the proposed changes would strengthen protections for workers while taking employers’ concerns into account.
