Suriname Colombia Chamber launched to boost bilateral trade

The Suriname Colombia Chamber N. V. was officially launched on October 28 in Paramaribo to strengthen economic ties between Suriname and Colombia. Founded by G. Meyer and A. Rozo López-Ferrier, the organization aims to facilitate market access, help businesses find reliable partners, and navigate regulatory frameworks.

The initiative seeks to balance the current trade deficit. In 2024, Colombian exports to Suriname exceeded USD 24 million, while Surinamese exports to Colombia were less than USD 1 million in 2022. Key sectors identified for growth include agriculture, food processing, tourism, healthcare, logistics, oil and gas, infrastructure, energy, and business services. Potential Surinamese exports to the Colombian market of 52 million people include rice, bananas, wood, shrimp, and processed foods.

Minister Melvin Bouva emphasized that international cooperation should create lasting opportunities for the population through jobs and contracts. To support this, the Surinamese government is working on a new Investment Law and a Local Content Law to simplify procedures for investors and ensure local companies and workers benefit from new projects through training and supply opportunities.