The International Business Conference (IBC) Suriname 2025 concluded its final day with a strong focus on finance, investment, and innovation, further establishing Suriname as a growing economic hub in the region. A statement from the event organisers highlighted the conference’s success in bringing together experts, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss key opportunities for enhancing private-sector competitiveness, driving digital transformation, and advancing sustainable development.
The day’s activities began with a keynote address by Ms. Elizabeth Robberechts, Acting Managing Director at IDB Invest, who emphasised the critical role of private-sector investment in fostering resilient and sustainable economic growth. Her speech set the stage for discussions on leveraging financial instruments, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring economic stability in Suriname’s dynamic business environment.
A highlight of the day was the panel discussion on “Investing in Resilient and Sustainable Development.” Experts from various sectors, including Mr. Nawien Ghisiawan of IDB Invest and Dr. Marlene Street Forrest from the Jamaica Stock Exchange, explored financial strategies across industries such as natural resources, agriculture, infrastructure, and renewable energy. The conversation centered on risk mitigation, improving regulations, and expanding access to capital markets.
The event also placed a significant focus on the role of technology in Suriname’s economic future. The “Fostering Innovation and Leveraging Digitalisation” panel featured industry leaders like Dr. Anvit Ramlakhan of Datasur and Mr. Amir E. Azar of Quantum Horizon Capital, who discussed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, fintech solutions, and digital infrastructure in shaping Suriname’s competitiveness and unlocking new growth avenues.
Discussions around renewable energy took center stage with the “Supercharging Renewables” panel, where energy leaders, including Mr. Eddy Fränkel of Staatsolie, highlighted ongoing projects to integrate wind, solar, and biomass energy into the national grid. The panel focused on the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing Suriname’s clean energy agenda and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Workforce development also emerged as a crucial topic during the “Strategic Workforce Development” panel. Speakers, including Ms. Naomi Esajas-Friperson from the Ministry of Labour and Mr. Farsi Khudabux of Baitali Group of Companies, explored how talent acquisition, leadership development, and workforce digitisation can help meet the evolving demands of Suriname’s growing economy.
The event culminated in the launch of the Business Summit of Diaspora Suriname, which underscored the importance of diaspora engagement in Suriname’s economic growth. Discussions centered around strengthening economic ties and fostering international collaborations to support Suriname’s long-term prosperity.
In a statement, Suriname’s President, H.E. Chandrikapersad Santokhi, reiterated the nation’s commitment to sustainable growth and economic diversification. He stressed the importance of regional cooperation and private-sector participation in Suriname’s development agenda.
The IBC Suriname 2025 has been praised for providing a valuable platform for dialogue and collaboration, allowing participants to explore critical issues such as finance, innovation, and sustainable development. The statement concluded by noting that the event reinforced Suriname’s role as an emerging economic powerhouse committed to fostering investment, innovation, and long-term growth in the region.
