Chinese entrepreneurs are not here to take away business from Guyanese or break laws, according to the Chinese Association of Guyana which says that it has been encouraging its members to ensure compliance with good business ethics.
In a statement on Friday, the Association was responding to a report in the Kaieteur News on an undercover operation which purported to show transgressions by the owners of several Chinese stories on Regent and Robb streets.
The Association said that it strongly objected to the article which suggests that entrepreneurs of Chinese origin are not complying with the laws of Guyana in the conduct of their business. The Association asked why this operation was carried out on Chinese stores and not others. “It would appear that perhaps the Chinese community is being singled out in this so called `undercover operation’”, it said.
It added that what was particularly disturbing was that the article branded those members of the Chinese community as criminals and engaged in wrong business practices. The Association said that these attacks were disrespectful and could lead to the stigmatizing of the community and racial slurs.
“The Association always encourages all of its members to ensure full compliance with national laws and good business ethics. We do believe that there may be instances where language barriers have led to misunderstandings but we are working with our members to overcome these obstacles”, the statement said.
Noting that Chinese people have been part of the country’s social and economic development, the Association referred to the immigration of Chinese indentured labourers and noted that many have made sterling contributions.
“Chinese entrepreneurs are here because they want to contribute to the development of Guyana. We are not here to take away business or break the laws of Guyana…We too have a contribution to make to Guyanese society as one of the six races of Guyana. We wish to live in harmony with all the races, promote mutual respect and unity among the people of Guyana and respect the laws of Guyana”, the Association added.
