SURINAME-Suriname defends maritime levies, calls for dialogue with Guyana.

PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC – The Suriname government has responded strongly to criticism from Guyana over maritime levies on the Corantijn River.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation (BIS) said this does not constitute a new policy, but rather the consistent application of existing regulations.

The statement follows public remarks by Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, who expressed concern on social media about the legality of the levies.

“It has been brought to my attention that the authorities in the Republic of Suriname have instituted charges for the use of the Corentyne River… These reports represent a troubling development,” Ali said, noting that Georgetown has since formally lodged a protest with its Caribbean Community (CARICOM) neighbour and is awaiting a response.

“I wish to remind the Government of Suriname that Surinamese companies and investors have long benefited from the opportunities within our economy, where they have operated without discrimination or unnecessary restrictions,” said Ali, emphasising that this openness has so far been the cornerstone of mutual engagement.

Ali’s message is clear: the relationship between the two countries must remain based on reciprocity. He hopes the Surinamese authorities will reconsider the measures and ultimately refrain from actions that could be perceived as arbitrary.

In a statement, BIS said only one specific exception was made in 2012, which applied exclusively to vessels operating in support of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). According to the government, this exemption was a targeted cooperation measure and expressly not intended as a general regulation.

Paramaribo further emphasises that it sent diplomatic correspondence to Guyana regarding the matter as early as January 12, but that a formal response has not yet been received. Instead of public statements, Suriname is calling for dialogue through diplomatic channels, during which any requests for an extension of the previous exemption are open for discussion.

According to the statement, it prefers dialogue and bilateral consultation to resolve such issues, while maintaining good, constructive relations between both countries and, at the same time, underscoring the importance of transparency, mutual respect, and good neighbourliness in regional cooperation.