Guyanese agro-processing company UMAMI Inc. has shipped its first commercial container of locally manufactured products to LuLu Hypermarket in Qatar, marking a new stage in the company’s expansion into the Gulf market.
The shipment departed Guyana following UMAMI’s official market launch in Doha in September and coincided with the start of Agriculture Month. The company said the shipment moves its Qatar venture from a market introduction to sustained commercial trade.
President Irfaan Ali welcomed the development, describing it as an example of converting new international opportunities into trade. He said stronger ties established between Guyana, Qatar and the wider Gulf region have created opportunities for local businesses to expand their international reach.
Ali said the shipment demonstrates what Guyanese manufacturers can achieve through investments in quality, standards and production capacity, supported by international partners that provide access to new consumers. He said increased exports of value-added products could strengthen Guyana’s manufacturing sector while creating opportunities for farmers and workers.
LuLu Group Global Director Dr. Mohamed Althaf said the company was impressed with the quality of UMAMI’s products and viewed the shipment as part of growing commercial opportunities between Guyana and the Gulf region. LuLu expects to build a long-term partnership with the Guyanese manufacturer.
Guyana’s Ambassador to Qatar, Safraaz Ahmad Shadood, described the shipment as an important breakthrough for Guyanese manufacturing and encouraged other export-ready local companies that meet Middle Eastern market requirements to pursue opportunities in the region.
UMAMI Managing Director Chris Persaud said the company takes particular pride in seeing Guyanese-made products heading to international supermarket shelves. He said UMAMI intends to build a sustainable export programme and establish a permanent presence for locally manufactured products in Qatar and the wider Gulf.
Established in 2013, UMAMI manufactures sauces, seasonings and condiments in Guyana.