The Guyana Government remains committed to securing 150 fishing licenses for Guyanese fishermen to operate in Suriname’s territorial waters, a promise made by the Surinamese Government in 2021 but still unfulfilled.
The agreement, made after a high-level meeting between President Dr. Irfaan Ali and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi in 2021, was set to take effect in January 2022. However, despite repeated efforts by Guyanese officials, Suriname has not issued the licenses.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha recently confirmed that Suriname has not honored its commitment, despite previous written communication outlining the licensing process. He assured that Guyana continues to raise the issue at regional and diplomatic levels, including within the Caribbean Fishing Authority, to advocate for local fisherfolk.
Challenges Faced by Guyanese Fishermen
Guyanese fishermen operating along the Corentyne Coast must pass through the Corentyne River, which falls under Surinamese jurisdiction, to access the Atlantic. Without official licenses, many fishermen are forced to rent permits from Surinamese businessmen at high costs, increasing their financial burden.
Local fishing industry stakeholders have been urging the Guyana Government to apply more pressure on Suriname to resolve the issue. Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has also expressed frustration with the delay, calling the situation “disgusting” and criticizing the lack of transparency in Suriname’s system.
Suriname’s Position on the Issue
President Santokhi has stated that the matter remains under review, citing potential legal issues that may require parliamentary amendments or a new agreement between both countries. While he has reassured that a decision will be made in the best interest of both nations, no clear timeline has been provided.
The Way Forward
The unresolved fishing license dispute highlights the need for stronger diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation. While Guyana continues to press for a resolution, affected fishermen remain in limbo, struggling with high operational costs.
Moving forward, increased diplomatic dialogue, stronger trade negotiations, and regional intervention through CARICOM may be necessary to ensure Guyanese fisherfolk receive the licenses they were promised, securing their livelihoods and the future of the local fishing industry.
