Suriname’s state-owned mining company N.V. Grassalco officially inaugurated its Guyanese subsidiary, Guysure Aggregate and Sands Inc. (Guysure ASI), today at the Pritipaul Singh Investment Port in McDoom, Georgetown.
The event, marked by a formal unveiling of the company’s sales office and commemorative plaque, was headlined by the President of Suriname, Chandrikapersad Santokhi.
Grassalco, known for its high-quality construction materials, has been exporting aggregate to Guyana for years.
“This initiative is a win-win,” President Santokhi stated. “It strengthens Suriname’s economic footprint and supports Guyana’s rapid development by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality aggregate.”
The sales office is expected to significantly improve logistics for the import, storage, and distribution of Surinamese aggregate within Guyana.
According to Guysure ASI’s Operations Director Abigail Merz, the facility holds over 10,000 tons of stone, with more arriving weekly from Suriname’s Royal Hill and Jacob Kondre quarries. The latter hosts the Caribbean’s largest crusher, producing up to 4,500 metric tons per day.
“Our goal is not just to sell, but to serve the full spectrum of clients from large contractors to small builders,” Merz said, noting that the company also provides office and storage space for rent.
She emphasised that the company operates under international ISO standards and is committed to corporate social responsibility.
“Guysure is here to support Guyana’s growth and to give back,” she added.
Suriname’s ambassador to Guyana, as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs Albert Ramdin, highlighted the broader significance of the venture.
“This is more than a business move,” said Minister Ramdin. “It reflects a strategic partnership that benefits both nations.”
Guyanese officials echoed the sentiment. One speaker noted that the move will not only ease bottlenecks in the construction sector but also open doors for reverse trade, with Guyanese goods potentially being exported to Suriname.
“Aggregate was a major constraint for our infrastructure boom,” the official said. “Grassalco’s presence addresses that head-on and helps lower costs for the entire industry.”
In his address, President Santokhi said the project aligned with his government’s broader goal to position Suriname’s state-owned enterprises as regional players.
“This office is a symbol of what is possible when nations work together,” he said.
President Santokhi made a special trip to Georgetown despite his country being in the middle of national elections, underscoring the importance he placed on the partnership.
He concluded his remarks by reaffirming Suriname’s commitment to strong bilateral ties with Guyana, calling the venture a model for future collaboration.
