As President Irfaan Ali seeks another term in office and his campaign continues to solicit endorsements, Ronaldo Alphonso—a gold miner with over 20 years of experience and the current President of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association—has announced his “unequivocal support” for Ali’s re-election bid.
According to Alphonso, in a release, he arrived at this decision having taken into account the benefits he has seen the sector receive over the past five years. Alphonso noted that this endorsement “reflects my firm belief that the current administration has not only listened to the needs of the mining sector but has acted decisively to ensure its growth and prosperity.”
Alphonso said under Ali’s leadership, the mining industry has witnessed a transformative period of engagement and a government that has consistently delivered on its promises. According to him, the administration has implemented a suite of policies that have directly and positively impacted every level of our sector, from the small-scale miner to larger operations. These measures, he said, have provided tangible benefits, reduced operational burdens, and spurred new investment.
“Over the past five years, miners, including my company have benefited from a series of critical concessions and initiatives, including:
Tax and VAT Relief:
- Complete removal of VAT and taxes on All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs).
- Elimination of VAT on essential machinery, equipment, and lubricating oils.
- Removal of the burdensome Excise Tax on fuel.
Streamlined Operations:
- Abolishment of the police clearance requirement for miners to transport their own fuel.
- Removal of the mandate to register and obtain road licenses for mining equipment.
- Elimination of VAT on hinterland travel, reducing costs for our workforce.
Direct Financial Gains:
- A significant reduction of the Final Tax from a sliding scale with a maximum of 3.5% down to a flat 2.5%.
- The complete removal of the 10% Tributor’s Tax, putting more money back into the pockets of miners.
Landmark Investment Agreements:
- The establishment of a crucial Investment Development Agreement (IDA) between the Government of Guyana and Miners. This agreement allows miners producing over 200 ounces of gold annually to import a duty-free Double Cab Open Back Pickup, provided they are tax compliant. A further IDA has also been secured for other vehicles and essential spares.
“These actions speak louder than words. They represent a government that understands the vital contribution of the gold and diamond mining sector to Guyana’s economy and is committed to its sustainable development.”
Alphonso accepted there are still challenges to address within the sector. He, however, feels the open-door policy and the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the Ali’s government gives him great confidence, the mining sector has a partner in progress who is willing to listen and work with us to find solutions.
