Press Release

No air cargo service to North America despite Government's approval - Farmers/exporters being denied market opportunities

Despite approval being granted by the Government of Guyana to Caribbean Airlines for the commencement of air cargo operations from Georgetown to New York and Toronto , several months later, this service is yet to be realized.

Farmers and exporters have repeatedly pointed out that significant market opportunities in the United States and Canada for Guyana 's fresh fruits and vegetables are being curtailed due to the lack of air cargo services to these locations.

This issue was raised November last when President Bharrat Jagdeo, Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud and a team of officials were in New York for an Agro-business Investment Seminar. At the time, Caribbean Airlines had expressed to President Jagdeo, an interest in offering this service, which the airline assured, could begin immediately. Cognizant of the importance of such an operation, government granted approval.

Caribbean Airlines, however, has thus far failed to honour its commitment, with no clear indication as to if and when the service will become operational.

Increased food production in Guyana and the growing demand worldwide continue to present business opportunities to farmers and exporters. However, the absence of an air cargo service to New York and Toronto has been a major barrier to the export of fresh fruits and vegetables to these markets.

Several farmers and exporters have indicated to the Guyana Marketing Corporation that they are poised to commence exports providing that the service becomes operational, and as such, are optimistic that Caribbean Airlines will honour its commitment given to President Jagdeo.

June 12, 2009

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