Andrew Baasaron has a vision, sweeping economic renewal, a vital boost for entrepreneurs, higher returns per hour worked and above all, fair opportunities for every Surinamese, from Paramaribo to the interior.
Although he has no political background by birth, Baasaron understands that his ministry places him in the political arena, his mission is clear, he will build bridges between policy makers and the business community, between strategy and implementation. With his appointment as Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation, he wants to help shape Suriname "2.0," a country that no longer waits for oil and gas revenues, but produces, exports and creates value itself.
The first weeks in his new position are all about listening and learning. Baasaron plans conversations with all department heads and staff members within the ministry, as well as external stakeholders. He wants to get to the bottom of existing programs and be open to fresh insights. Only after this thorough exploration will the formulation of measures follow that both build on proven initiatives and allow room for innovative plans.
An urgent task is the structural shortage of qualified personnel. He calls for an active recruitment and training program that will attract talent from both the private sector and among young people and prepare them for key positions. "We will train and coach professionals so that they can confidently take responsibility in the development of our country."
Baasaron's entrepreneurial past gives him a practical compass in this regard. As an entrepreneur, he knows how to start with minimal resources. His plan therefore includes not only policy frameworks but also concrete support measures: from simplified licensing processes to mentoring and access to venture capital.
For many Surinamese, price stability is at the top of the priority list. Baasaron understands that goods are sometimes sold domestically at sky-high rates. And a fair economy means that every citizen, regardless of residence, has access to affordable basic necessities. He announces an in-depth study of chain costs from fuel prices to transportation and storage tariffs to eliminate unnecessary price driving.
Transparency and communication are core pillars in his approach. The government must be a facilitator. Reducing corruption, securing clear agreements and applying smart price control systems are the cornerstones of his policy. In doing so, he explicitly seeks cooperation with retailers, industry associations and consumer organizations, "because only together do we remain responsible for a stable and fair market."
With his strategic vision and hands-on mentality, Andrew Baasaron wants to lay the foundations for a new economic impulse. A Suriname that no longer stands by, but takes the reins with ambition, decisiveness and shared responsibility.
