The Government on Friday used the opening of the Origins Fashion Festival 2026 to promote its vision of developing Guyana’s Orange Economy, presenting the country’s fashion industry as an emerging driver of economic diversification. However, while the initiative signals growing recognition of the creative sector, experts contend that fashion shows and one-off grants alone will not build a sustainable creative economy.

Addressing the festival’s opening, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues said the event demonstrates that Guyana’s fashion industry is evolving into a structured sector capable of competing regionally and internationally.

“It is also a clear signal that a structured fashion industry is no longer a future aspiration. It is emerging now before our very eyes,” Rodrigues said.