Rum producers from across the Caribbean will meet in Guyana today and tomorrow to discuss challenges faced by the sector in a very competitive global environment.
A press release from the West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA) which is organizing the event explained that this event being hosted by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) is the first of its kind in 30 years.
The meeting, which will address critical issues affecting the industry, will also honour Dr Yesu Persaud, retired Chairman of DDL who was a senior of WIRSPA for many decades as well as a former chairman of the regional grouping.
Among the critical issues to be discussed is the continuing negative impact of the cover-over subsidies which benefit competing brands from Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands in the US market.
They will also discuss pressing trade issues such as Brexit and other market developments as well as technical issues related to quality improvement and waste treatment as well as the establishment of geographical indications, as a strategy to combat increases in counterfeiting.
