Gambiaj.com – (BEIJING, China) – The Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce (GYCC) has taken a step towards improving packaging standards for Gambian businesses after agreeing to work with the China Packaging Federation on initiatives aimed at building technical capacity and supporting youth-led enterprises.
The agreement was reached during a meeting held on Friday at the China Garments Mansion, the headquarters of the China Packaging Federation in Beijing. The meeting brought together GYCC President Modou Lamin Gassama, Chief Executive Officer Jarry Sowe, and the Federation’s Vice President and Secretary General, Han Xueshan.
Speaking during the discussions, Gassama said the Chamber is looking for partnerships that deliver practical benefits for young entrepreneurs and local businesses. He noted that better packaging is essential if Gambian products are to meet export requirements and compete in regional markets.
“We are focused on working together to achieve shared milestones that benefit our youth and the African region at large,” he said. “This collaboration can transform how our products are packaged, branded, and taken to market.”
Sowe outlined the Chamber’s work in supporting youth-owned businesses, promoting trade, and helping entrepreneurs build the technical skills needed to grow their businesses.
Han said the China Packaging Federation is ready to work with GYCC to promote closer China-Africa cooperation in the packaging industry. He also expressed interest in visiting The Gambia to explore opportunities for collaboration and discuss possible projects with local stakeholders.
The China Packaging Federation is a government-backed organization that brings together manufacturers, suppliers, research institutions, and universities involved in packaging technology and industrial standards. It also runs specialized training institutions for the sector.
At the end of the meeting, Gassama thanked the Federation for its warm reception and said GYCC would submit the information and formal proposal requested to move the partnership forward.
The engagement is part of the Chamber’s efforts to link Gambian businesses with international partners that can help improve skills, technology, and market access, particularly for young entrepreneurs seeking to expand beyond the domestic market.
By Mustapha Jarju, currently in China
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