Brokopondo, Suriname— In order to strengthen the capabilities of local businesses, Zijin – Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. (RGM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation (EZ), and the Surinamese Standards Bureau (SSB), successfully organized a three-day training “EU Labeling and Packaging Requirements for Cariforum Exporters”. The training took place from August 28 to August 30, 2024, at the Brokopondo Centrum and was aimed at equipping local exporters with the necessary knowledge and skills to meet European Union standards.
The training was officially inaugurated on August 28, by Minister of Labour, Employment and Youth Affairs, Steven Mac Andrew, who attended the event as ad interim Minister of EZ. He delivered an impactful opening speech. He emphasized the critical role that local businesses play in the nation’s economic development, stating, “The growth of these enterprises is crucial for the economic development of our country. It is important that we provide them with the right knowledge and skills to meet international standards.”
(Minister Mac Andrew and GM Qianjie Wang)
RGM General Manager Qianjie Wang also addressed the participants, highlighting the importance of integrating local entrepreneurs from Brokopondo into RGM’s supply chain. “By strengthening local companies,” Wang remarked, “we believe we can ensure the growth of these businesses but also the growth of the entire district.” This sentiment reflects RGM’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic empowerment in the communities surrounding its operations.
The training had a strong turnout, with 22 local entrepreneurs registering to participate, and 21 successfully completing the program. The sessions covered essential topics such as product labeling, information, packaging, sustainability, marking, certification, and applicable legislation. These areas are critical for meeting EU standards, which are necessary for accessing European markets.
On the final day, August 30, the event was officially closed with a showcase of products developed by the participating entrepreneurs. Attendees, including the Minister of Labor, ad-interim of Economic Affairs, the General Manager of RGM, and members of the public, had the opportunity to view, evaluate and purchase these products. Finabank, an ESG partner of RGM, also participated in the closing day, offering insights into financial inclusion, the importance of business banking, and how to access investment capital.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the training, sharing how it has impacted their business outlook. Jerome Abankie noted, “I found the training very informative and good; it has strengthened my ambitions to finally start my business, and with the knowledge I have gained, I can better develop my business plan and do all the preparatory work to meet the requirements.”
Another participant, Dionne Diko, shared, “The training organized for labeling and packaging by Rosebel Gold Mines and the Ministry of Economic Affairs has inspired and motivated me to continue with my business and pursue the goal of exporting my products to the EU and other countries. I am also motivated to improve the quality of my products, the packaging, and the labels.”
Brokopondo District Commissioner, Ludwig Medelzoon, shared to have noted more awareness among the entrepreneurs of Brokopondo to also consider local, as well as regional markets. According to him, the entrepreneurs of his jurisdiction are eager to produce more and expand their horizons. He expressed gratitude for this initiative and informed to continue mobilizing local entrepreneurs to participate in the trainings that are offered.
The Acting Director of the Surinamese Standard Bureau (SSB), Mr. Tanwir Hassankhan, emphasized on the importance of complying with the EU standards in order to broaden the possibilities to do business in the Surinamese and international market. He also shared how SSB is a key partner in this circuit.
Zijin – Rosebel Gold Mines remains committed to its mission of supporting the growth and development of local businesses, ensuring that they are equipped to meet international standards and contribute to the broader economic progress of Suriname. Rosebel Gold Mines looks forward to the fruits that this initiative will bring.
