(Kaieteur News) – The Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) is calling for greater clarity over the temporary suspension of the MV Canawaima ferry service, warning that the disruption is already affecting passengers, transport operators, businesses and the movement of goods between Guyana and Suriname.

While stressing that passenger and crew safety must remain paramount, the Chamber said a reliable cross-border service must, first and foremost, be a safe one. The SGCC noted the conflicting positions surrounding the vessel’s seaworthiness. Guyana’s Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, recently said technical inspections involving maritime experts from both countries concluded that the vessel could remain in operation for three months pending dry-docking.

However, the Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS) subsequently determined that certain outstanding matters should be addressed immediately. The Chamber also cited a Suriname Nieuws Centrale report on an August 21 assessment by Marine Consulting & Survey, which identified significant corrosion requiring further examination and remedial work. The assessment reportedly found no leakage and concluded that the vessel could remain operational for three months pending dry-docking, while also identifying outstanding documentation and certification requirements.