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PSC ramps up war on illegal trade
…hands enforcement agencies tactical gear
(Kaieteur News) – The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has stepped up its campaign against the growing scourge of illegal trade, bringing together key enforcement agencies and major private sector players for an intensive training session and the handover of operational equipment aimed at strengthening frontline enforcement.
The initiative, held Thursday at the Roraima Duke Lodge, saw officers from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), and the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) receiving practical training on identifying counterfeit and illicit products, understanding weaknesses in supply chains, and improving intelligence-sharing, PSC said in a press release.
Participants of the training following the handover of operational equipment aimed at strengthening frontline enforcement
Representatives from Demerara Tobacco Company (DEMTOCO), Banks DIH, Massy Distribution, and the ANSA McAL Group delivered presentations outlining the growing threat posed by illegal trade, citing its impact on legitimate businesses, government revenue, and consumer safety. Industry officials also shared market intelligence, case studies, and product identification techniques to help officers detect counterfeit goods more effectively.
PSC Chairman Capt. Gerald Gouveia Jr. warned that illegal trade continues to undermine legitimate commerce and erode confidence in the marketplace.
“Combating illegal trade requires a coordinated and sustained effort from both the public and private sectors,” Gouveia said. “The PSC remains committed to working alongside government, enforcement agencies, and our private sector partners to strengthen enforcement, improve coordination, and implement practical solutions that protect businesses and the wider economy.”
A major highlight of the event was the handover of tactical equipment to enforcement agencies. The donation included tactical suits, flashlights, flotation and ballistic vests, safety boots, and LED traffic wand batons, all intended to improve officer safety and operational effectiveness during anti-illicit trade operations.
The Commission said the initiative forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen collaboration between the private sector and law enforcement in tackling the illicit trade network operating in Guyana.
The PSC also renewed its call for the establishment of a dedicated national task force to coordinate efforts against illegal trade, saying sustained cooperation among government agencies, enforcement authorities, and the business community will be critical in protecting the country’s economy and consumers.
The programme concluded with a networking reception, where participants discussed future areas of cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to a united front against illicit trade.
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