Talisman Kamla to meet Caricom, US officials at UNGA

24 September

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, flanked by cabinet ministers, addressed media at the Diplomatic Centre on September 23 . She will meet Caricom and US officials at the UN General Assembly in New York and would welcome meeting US President Donald Trump.

“Yes, we do intend to meet some US officials. Those are being finalised with the minister of foreign affairs.”

It was not on her agenda to meet Venezuelan officials. “I don’t even know if Venezuela is attending.”

During her absence from TT on September 25-30, she will engage in bilateral and multilateral meetings in her packed programme at the UN.

“Top of that list will be Ghana, the UAE and several other countries as bilaterals, one on one. In addition we intend to hold multilaterals where we will be meeting several of our countries in the Caricom and from elsewhere,”

She vowed a “TT-first” policy.

“But no man is an island and can do it alone, so we will be meeting with international bodies and of course Caricom.”

Addressing reporters, the PM welcomed the US military presence in the Southern Caribbean as a likely “game-changer” against local crime, which she said was fuelled by regional narco-trafficking.   Asked if her statements on TT’s behalf, outside a Caricom umbrella, on the current US-Venezuela confrontation meant she had lost faith in the promise of Caricom, the PM said TT has a good relationship with the people of Venezuela.

“I put the interest of the people of TT first, so while we have unity in Caricom, every nation state in Caricom is free to exercise their sovereign rights as they think best. At this time our willingness in accepting the US in the waters of the South Caribbean, the international waters, I am very happy about that. That is my sovereign right for the people of TT.”

Many other Caricom nations do not have the level of violence TT experiences.

“We had over 600 murders in this tiny island state in one year. We have the narco-trafficking, the human trafficking, many other ills that come from criminality.

“Therefore at this time, I think it is the right time, the right place, for TT to change our paradigms when it comes to our sovereign interests and the safety and security of the people of TT. I put that first. Certainly I embrace the Caricom. We have learnt a lot from the Caricom. We have a lot more to learn. When we partner together, we do better.However, regarding the narco threat, she said TT was the member state most hit by crime.

“We can’t do the same things we have been doing for 20 years and expect it to change. So this is a game-changer in a sense, having help from others who are larger than we are. They have the resources. We don’t have the resources. We have not had them for the past umpteen years, where the crime has run away. We have to do things differently.

“So to my partners, brothers, sisters, cousins in the Caricom, we love them. We are committed to the Caricom. So nothing I am saying is against the Caricom. It has to do firstly with looking after the safety and security of the people of TT.”

PM vows better life at a bloody crossroads

At the Caribbean launch of the UNDP Regional Human Development Report 2025, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar vowed to empower communities in Trinidad and Tobago, in light of reports of pressures affecting the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region.

On September 18 at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s, she said the report titled Under Pressure – Recalibrating the Future of Development in Latin America and the Caribbean is a direct warning to Latin America and the Caribbean but also brings hope.

In LAC some progress has been made but the region remains fragile. TT had a high rating for human development but slipped with the uncertainty of a regional poly-crisis, such that things can no longer be business as usual.

She advocated AI access and digital access, for inclusive and sustainable development as the report warned of threats of technological disruptors, social issues and the climate crisis.

She hoped that evidence becomes action and vision becomes results as leadership requires courage, discipline and imagination.

She hailed the analytical and practical report as a compass and a reminder that development is about GDP as well as the quality of classrooms, healthcare and justice systems, plus dignity of the people.

Planning Minister Dr Kennedy Swaratsingh, UNDP local head, Ugo Blanco and UN assistant secretary-general Michelle Muschett also addressed the event. (SEE ISABELANA  PAGE)

 

 

 

FATF bill amendments

20 September

Addressing the House of Representatives in Parliament on September 19, Minister of Finance Davendranath Tancoo promised that a strong legislative framework will target white collar crime with the passage of new legislation based on recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

During the second reading of three bills he said it would close legal loopholes and bring TT closer in compliance to FATF standards. It is more than just an administrative issue.

“TT will have a robust legislative framework to properly deal with proceeds of crime, including cross border activities and the kind of white collar crime that robbed this nation of billions of dollars and destroyed thousands of lives. It is a crucial reform for the anti -money laundering and counter terrorism financing regime.”

The amendments significantly enhance transparency, accountability and integrity within the financial sector. The country risks damaging its international reputation if it fails to pass the bill and adopt the FATF recommendations.

The amendments, which affect over a dozen pieces of current legislation, have significant effects on “the protection of our financial system, our international reputation and ultimately our economy and the welfare of our people. The passage of this bill is a crucial and substantial initiative by the government to fortify our legal and regulatory framework against money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing. Without the amendments our financial system will remain vulnerable and capable of being exploited. It is therefore critical we act with haste to ensure we are not used as a conduit and remain exposed to sanctions.”

Passage of the law helps preparation for a rigorous evaluation process to ensure compliance with international regulatory standards.

In March 2026, TT will host the fifth-round on-site mutual evaluation by the Financial Action task force.

The evaluation is not a routine administrative exercise. It is a searching, rigorous and demanding assessment of how effectively the country complies with global standards on anti-money laundering, counter terrorist financing and counter proliferation financing. The bill is a lifeline as the country knew from hard experience the cost of failing to meet FATF standards.

“TT, in the past, faced scrutiny… We know what it means to be viewed as a jurisdiction with strategic deficiencies. Such a label is not merely symbolic. It reflects our ability to maintain correspondent banking relationships and raises the cost of international transactions. It discourages foreign direct investment, and it undermines confidence in our financial system. Every exporter, every importer, every citizen who seeks to send or receive international payments is put at risk when our financial system is not trusted.”

TT cannot go back down that road again and the government is taking every possible action to achieve full legal compliance and to ensure that financial systems are never again compromised by the failures that existed before April 2025.

Wrapping up his contribution to the debate, Tancoo said the passage of the bills is not the end of the journey but rather the start of a critical foundation.

“It is the foundation upon which we must build effective implementation, rigorous supervision, and decisive enforcement. Without it our evaluation will be doomed to failure, with it, we have the legislative tools necessary to show progress, demonstrate compliance and secure our nation’s future.”

At the end of the debate, the umbrella Miscellaneous Provisions (FATF Compliance) Bill 2025, which gives effect to the obligations of TT, under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), was sent to the House Committee to be determined clause by clause.

When this was completed, the amended Bill was reported to the House. The Opposition then requested a division, at the end of which, 27 Government MPs voted “aye” while 7 Opposition MPs abstained, meaning the Bill was passed by simple majority.

 

 

‘Deficit’ October budget

2025, 09/13

Divest state assets for deficit, starting with Angostura (SEE LIST BELOW)

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says her Government’s first national budget will be presented in early October but stopped short of giving the exact date for the presentation.

The 2025/2026 budget will carry a deficit, an indication of the economic challenges inherited from the previous administration. Outside Parliament, she explained that the Government is working with limited fiscal space. The state of the economy meant there was little room for fiscal manoeuvring.

“We’ve inherited a lot of borrowings as well. I don’t think we can have a balanced budget, so we may have expenditure outpacing revenues, and so we would have to find creative ways to supplement those revenues.    So, in other words, there will be a deficit, and we will have to find ways to finance the deficit.”

While difficult decisions lie ahead, her administration remains focused on protecting the most vulnerable and laying the groundwork for recovery.

“I’ve been in the parliament long enough; many of you have been around. There are creative ways of financing deficits, and we will utilise the tools that are available in terms of financing the deficit. We expect to find … It may not be as bad as you think.”

Former finance minister Colm Imbert argued during the opposition People’s National Movement’s recent public meetings that the United National Congress administration had politically abandoned key sources of revenue, leaving borrowing as the only path to cover the projected $9 billion deficit in the 2025 budget.

Imbert claimed that Government diverted more than $1.3 billion in loans originally earmarked for key state agencies to pay salaries and meet shortfalls in expenditure. He produced information which came from a recent Cabinet Note. However, current Minister of Finance, Davendradath Tancoo rubbished Imbert and the PNM’s claims, saying they were bent on creating mischief.

 

 

 

T&T Chamber 2025–2026 budget blueprint

Unlocking next-generation economy

2 September , 2025

Vashti Guyadeen, chief executive, Trinidad & Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

Preparing to enter fiscal 2025/2026, Trinidad and Tobago confronts a defining moment. Over a decade of uneven recovery since the collapse of global energy prices in 2014 has revealed the risks of relying heavily on oil and gas.

While hydrocarbons still account for 32% of GDP and 75% of export earnings, they employ only 5% of the workforce, with most of the population dependent on a narrow economic base, vulnerable to external shocks.

Against this backdrop, the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TT Chamber) tabled a bold suite of budget recommendations. Framed as a blueprint for transformation rather than a checklist of requests, these proposals seek

1. 1. 1. strategic investment in new engines of growth,
      2. institutional reform and
      3. public-private collaboration.

If adopted, they could mark a decisive pivot towards resilience, diversification and global competitiveness.

The case for diversification

The Chamber’s submission underscores a stark reality: the current path is neither sustainable nor inclusive. While recent upticks in energy prices briefly cushioned fiscal pressures, they cannot mask structural vulnerabilities. Trinidad and Tobago must broaden its economic base, reduce reliance on volatile petroleum revenues and strengthen non-energy spheres of agriculture, services, tourism and the creative sector.

The Chamber’s 2025–2026 recommendations cluster around seven priority pillars:

• • 1. Agriculture and food security
  • 2. Economic diversification -services, professional and marine services, creative economy
  • 3. Government efficiency
  • 4. Human capital development
  • 5. Health sector reform
  • 6. Public safety and justice
  • 7. Digital transformation

Together, these pillars chart a course toward “T&T’s next-generation economy, ” a model that is more innovative, inclusive, and less susceptible to global commodity cycles.

Agriculture and food security: Reducing a $7.3b import bill

Agriculture, which accounts for less than 1% of GDP, lies at the heart of the Chamber’s vision for diversification. The food import bill reached $7.3 billion in October 2024, making it both a fiscal and food security risk.

The Chamber proposes a structured plan to develop priority products over three years, supported by extension services, finance access and private sector partnerships. This approach is aligned with Caricom’s “25 by 2025” initiative, to cut regional food imports by 25%, now extended to 2030.

Beyond import substitution, agriculture is also seen as an export opportunity aided by with its world-class ICTA research. Targeted investment in niche crops such as cocoa, coconut and fruits, could transform farms into a source of foreign exchange and rural employment. The Chamber stresses the need for climate-resilient systems, subsidies for risk insurance and clear tax incentive frameworks to encourage investment.

Ginger, turmeric, salads and herbs can be grown in home gardens and are more nourishing than hot peppers which are unsuitable for children.

Indigenous Maize is more versatile and easier to plant, cultivate, harvest and cook than toxic cassava and can be grown with beans to fertilise soil on plains . Breadfruit is nutritious and seeds of its ancestor Breadnut (Chataigne) can be added to soup, roasted, boiled or processed into paste and flour.

Healthy fruits prevent cancer and add variety. For export, Julie mango can be frozen and other varieties can be dried. Guava thrives on hills and is preserved as jelly, jam and paste. Sapodilla, soursop, custard apple, pawpaw and pineapple are excellent fresh or in ice cream. Instead of agouti, water buffalo can be farmed for mozzarella cheese and meat for those avoiding beef.

Unlocking the orange economy and services exports

Creative industries—music, film, fashion, crafts, design, and digital media are a cornerstone of economic diversification. Investments in film production generated over $55 million between May 2024 and May 2025, while music exports earned $5.3 million.

Fashion designers exported to over 21 markets locally, regionally, South Korea, Australia and the United States. With cheap energy, crafts can be a lucrative cottage industry using bamboo and coconut for tools, utensils, toys, rugs and storage, clay for ceramics and imported cotton for embroidery, textiles, bags, ornaments and art.

The creative sector could scale rapidly with stronger intellectual property protection, better financing and targeted export promotion in film markets and fashion weeks.

Treating creativity as “serious business,” can convert cultural capital into economic capital, with high-value jobs for youth while strengthening national identity and global visibility.

Beyond the Orange Economy, the Chamber calls for greater support for professional services, ICT, education, marine and yacht services, and niche tourism. T&T’s English-speaking workforce, established financial system and energy expertise position it well to become a Caribbean hub for climate finance, digital consulting, and maritime services.

Regional peers such as Curaçao demonstrated the payoff of such strategies, developing comprehensive service export roadmaps that attracted foreign students, IT firms, and creative industries. The Chamber recommends establishing a National Services Export Initiative co-designed with Government, private sector, and academia—to double service exports within five years.

Government efficiency and business climate

No diversification agenda can succeed without a more efficient state. The Chamber identifies persistent bottlenecks in customs, VAT refunds, foreign exchange access, and regulatory approvals as major impediments to private sector growth.

Key recommendations include:

• A fully digitised, risk-based Customs Management System with pre-clearance for low-risk containers.

1. 1. 1. • A VAT Refund Fast-Track Mechanism, using automated verification and escrow-based timelines.
      2. • A transparent foreign exchange allocation policy, monthly reports from the Central Bank, and a reconsideration of a managed float system to curb black market activity.
      3. • Implementation of a Universal Payment Interface, allowing the unbanked to integrate into the financial system using mobile platforms.

These reforms, the Chamber argues, would ease liquidity pressures, improve trade facilitation, and restore business confidence.

Human capital, youth, and education

A future-ready economy requires a future-ready workforce. The Chamber advocates for:

1. 1. 1. • Expanding youth employment tax incentives beyond tech into construction and manufacturing.
      2. • Raising the tertiary education tax deduction from $72,000 to $90,000, in line with rising tuition costs.
      3. • Establishing ideation labs at tertiary institutions to promote entrepreneurship.
      4. • Introducing a National STEM Roadmap and integrating innovation into school curricula from the primary level.

The overarching goal is to ensure T&T’s workforce is equipped for the demands of digital transformation, advanced services, and innovation-led industries.

Health and public safety

The Chamber’s proposals go beyond economics, addressing pressing social concerns.On health, the recommendations are:

1. 1. 1. • Diversifying procurement of non-communicable disease (NCD) treatments.
      2. • Introducing a sugar tax to fund healthy lifestyle campaigns.
      3. • Expanding access to cancer screening in vulnerable communities through public-private partnerships.
      4. • Strengthening e-Health capacity and modernising outdated legislation around specialty drugs.

On crime and justice, the Chamber recommends targeted tax incentives—allowing 100% deductions (up to $1m) for corporate contributions to the Police Service and Crime Stoppers. Such measures would deepen public-private collaboration in strengthening safety and security.

Digital transformation: Start-up T&T

Perhaps the most ambitious set of proposals lies in digital transformation. The Chamber envisions a national e-ID system, updated data protection and cybercrime laws, digitisation of government services, and a comprehensive AI policy.

A standout recommendation is the launch of Start-Up T&T, modelled after Chile’s globally acclaimed Start-Up Chile programme. By providing equity-free funding, mentorship, and ecosystem support, this accelerator could produce new high-growth companies, attract foreign investment, and stem the brain drain of local STEM graduates.

Chile’s experience accelerating 1,200+ startups from 72 countries, raising over US$100 million, and creating 1,500 jobs in five years demonstrates the potential payoff. With the right support, T&T could position itself as a regional innovation hub, cultivating a tech ecosystem that diversifies the economy away from oil and gas.

A call to action

In its conclusion, the Chamber is clear: Trinidad and Tobago has reached a critical inflection point. The familiar hydrocarbon model cannot carry the weight of development ambitions.

The 2025–2026 budget is therefore an opportunity not just to balance the books, but to signal a decisive commitment to long-term renewal. The private sector stands ready to invest, partner, and lead. What is required now is courage from policymakers to embrace bold reforms, clarity of execution, and a commitment to building an economy that is resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive. The future demands nothing less.

 

Chambers seek reforms in Police, Customs, Economy, e-Services

Budget 2025/2026

Two major business chambers fear delay of decisive reforms as Government prepares to deliver the 2025–2026 national budget. Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TTCIC) and the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago (AMCHAM T&T) advocate intelligent urgency for a clear path toward sustainable growth for T&T, at a critical crossroads.

Unless exigent reforms are implemented, the country risks slipping further behind in an increasingly competitive global economy.  In budget suggestions for 2025-2026, the chambers outlined similar recommendations, including greater investment in youth development, accelerated digital transformation, diversification beyond energy and measures to improve the ease of doing business.

They agreed that unless T&T takes immediate steps to strengthen competitiveness and attract new investment, it risks trailing the region in a rapidly changing global economy.
Fight crime better with judicial, police reforms

The chambers identified crime as a major obstacle to business confidence and progress. AMCHAM T&T branded crime the number one concern for over 300 members, proposing a holistic approach that strengthens community policing, expands youth programmes and restores trust in law enforcement.

It would cooperate with the Government on practical solutions to promote economic sustainability, public-private collaboration and social progress. Its 2025 recommendations were based on ongoing efforts and new insights from its annual Budget Survey, reflecting direct business feedback, a review of ongoing macroeconomic conditions, and input from its committees.

“We commend the Government on progress made thus far and offer these recommendations to support sustainable economic growth, investment attraction, and business resilience across all sectors. We are confident that with the right policy measures, Trinidad and Tobago can position itself as a competitive, safe and future-ready destination for business and investment,” the chamber said.

It suggested priority policy areas for FY 2025-2026 should be: crime and security, foreign exchange access, customs and trade facilitation, ease of doing business, tax administration and VAT refunds, digital transformation and innovation, judicial reform and white-collar crime, skills and workforce gaps, and the green economy and ESG.

The chamber noted: “…crime is the number one concern among our members, seen not only as a public safety issue, but as a major deterrent to investment, expansion and talent retention.”

To rebuild trust, deter investment flight, and reduce business costs, the chamber recommended strengthening the judiciary to better manage crime and improve the business environment; and improving the Police Service. It said:

“A high and seemingly uncontrollable crime rate is a major deterrent to foreign direct investment and business in general.

Trinidad and Tobago’s main drawback is not the lack of legislation, but the inefficiency of the enforcement system and the Judiciary.

Strengthening these institutions, together with the rehabilitation of convicts, will go a long way in addressing crime.”

Boost non-energy sector
Meanwhile, the TTCIC said there was need for strategic budgetary interventions to enhance sustainability, boost non-energy sector performance, and maintain macroeconomic stability.

“Trinidad and Tobago is a small, open economy located in the Caribbean with its economic performance closely tied to developments in the global energy market,” it noted.

It said that as of 2023, the country recorded a real GDP per capita of US$16,179 (constant 2015). It further stated that the energy sector contributed 32.5% to Trinidad and Tobago’s real GDP, while accounting for 75.7% of total exports.

In contrast, it said the non-energy sector, which contributed 67.5% to GDP, continued to be the main source of employment and domestic economic activity, but it lagged significantly in export performance.

“While the energy sector continues to underpin national income and government revenue, the non-energy sector, comprising manufacturing, services, tourism and agriculture, continues to play a critical role in economic diversification, employment generation and long term resilience. These dynamics underscore the need for strategic budgetary interventions aimed at enhancing sustainability, boosting non-energy sector performance and maintaining macroeconomic stability,” the TTCIC said.

Digitise Customs
Under the theme Government Efficiency, among TTCIC’s recommendations are to modernise customs processing:

“Implement a fully digitised and risk-based Customs Management Systems integrated with other border agencies. This system should include pre-clearance for low-risk containers, automation of inspections, and the adoption of performance-based KPIs to drive accountability and service delivery,” it said.

Adopt clear forex policy
To resolve foreign exchange access challenges, its recommendations include adoption of a clear and transparent foreign exchange allocation policy accessible to all businesses, and expansion of the Exim Bank facility to cover a broader range of non-energy sectors.

Expand tax incentives for youth jobs
Focusing on youth development, the TTCIC called for an expansion of tax incentives for youth employment. It said:

“While some fiscal incentives exist to promote youth development in the technology sector, other trades that absorb large numbers of vulnerable youth, such as construction, services and manufacturing, do not benefit from similar support. This creates uneven access to employment incentives and limits broader youth inclusion.”

It recommended extending existing tax allowances for youth employment in the technology industry (150% of expenses up to $3 million) to other trades or sectors such as construction, which, it said, employed “many vulnerable youths” and which played “a key role in national development.”

Healthcare reform
The TTCIC also called for healthcare reform through diversifying non-communicable diseases (NCD) treatment procurement.

It described the current tendering process for treating of NCDs in our public healthcare system as “overly restrictive,”, explaining:

“It does not adequately accommodate the inclusion of novel, evidence-based therapies that are now globally recognised for improving patient outcomes. As a result, patients reliant on the public sector are often limited to outdated or less effective treatment options.

“This limitation not only contributes to poorer health outcomes and reduced quality of life, but also increases long-term healthcare costs and diminishes national productivity due to preventable illness, disability or premature death.”

It recommended the diversification of the public procurement process for NCD treatments to include innovative, clinically proven, and cost-effective therapies.

Tax breaks for funding police
The TTCIC recommendations for crime and civil justice reform include the introduction of a targeted fiscal incentive in the form of a tax deduction of 100% of the actual expenditure incurred by individuals and companies that contribute financially to the TTPS for operational or infrastructure-related support.

It said the allowable deduction should be capped at $1 million per donor, applicable for income years 2026-2028. “This measure would encourage corporate social responsibility, mobilise additional resources for the TTPS and promote stronger collaboration between the private sector and national security stakeholders,” the TTCIC said.

Fyzabad Chamber of Commerce president Angie Jairam said the chamber’s budget recommendations include proposals to strengthen the local business environment, support job creation, and stabilise the national economy through structured foreign exchange generation.

“The upcoming budget is a critical opportunity to create meaningful relief and support for businesses, especially MSMEs that continue to navigate inflationary pressures and limited financing”, Jairam stated, adding:

“We are also calling for a bold strategy to increase the country’s foreign exchange earnings—it’s essential for long-term economic resilience”.

Recommendations include strengthening support for export-ready businesses, encouraging value-added production, and promoting investment in export-driven sectors such as agro-processing, tourism, and digital services.

The chamber also suggested leveraging diaspora trade and investment channels, and simplifying Customs and trade facilitation systems.

“We must take a structured, sector-focused approach to earning foreign exchange. Whether through manufacturing, services, or diaspora engagement, we have untapped potential that needs coordinated policy support,” Jairam said.

Top 5 budget recommendations from the Fyzabad Chamber:

1. Affordable financing for MSMEs
Expand government-backed loan schemes and offer low-interest financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises, with specific support for youth- and women-led businesses.
2. Strategic tax incentives
Introduce targeted tax relief for R&D, reinvestment, and sustainable business upgrades to encourage expansion and innovation.
3. Infrastructure development
Invest in roadworks, port upgrades, industrial zones, and broadband infrastructure to improve logistics, trade efficiency, and rural economic inclusion.
4. Develop workforce skills
Partner with industry on vocational training and digital upskilling programmes to meet current/future market needs.
5. E-Govt services
Streamline business registration, licensing, and compliance through integrated digital platforms, reducing red tape and improving service delivery.

 

 

Rapid pace for development agenda

10/9 2025

Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath,  Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, promised that Government will be moving at a “rapid pace” when Parliament resumes sittings,

Resumption of parliamentary sittings this month will be followed by the first official trip of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York, from September 23 to 29.

In early October Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo will deliver the 2026 national budget which will identify the priorities of the Government for actual projects under ministries.

“The next few months, in particular, will be revolutionary, empowering and progressive as we embark on our first national budget under the second Persad-Bissessar administration. We will use that platform to further articulate our national development strategies in line with our manifesto pledges.”

The Prime Minister mandated Government MPs to obtain feedback from constituents on critical matters, including the proposed Home Invasion Bill and budget consultations during the parliamentary recess.

“These consultations across the country were very successful. We saw constituents turning out in large numbers to participate in these consultations. This was encouraging and heartening.

The Persad-Bissessar-led Government has always believed in participatory democracy, and therefore,…

“…we gave citizens an opportunity to voice their concerns and recommendations. The Prime Minister’s style of leadership has always been consultative, and therefore, we take pride in the new governance style of Trinidad and Tobago led by the Honourable Prime Minister.

The consultations yielded tremendous feedback and, in some instances, drew to our attention areas in which we needed to place more focus”

In its almost four months in office, the United National Congress (UNC) Government has already started a track record of delivery and the issues campaigned on—such as crime—have been prioritised.

“Citizens over the past ten years under the PNM lived in self-imposed jails, experienced home invasions, robberies and murders and therefore feel empowered by an administration working to protect them and getting to the root causes of serious and violent crime. The public support has been tremendous.”

Key ministries are working with the Attorney General’s Office to develop legislation in security, health, social development, public utilities, works, transport and land.

“As the Minister of Public Utilities, I intend to bring back the Beverage Container Bill—we are actively working on that, which will assist in changing the environmental culture.”

For years promises about this legislation never materialised. Before Parliament went into recess, parliamentary committees were appointed and will commence in September .

“There are several reports coming out of various ministries and State enterprises that are scandalous and deeply troubling. These committees will be most important in exposing the malfeasance and corruption of the last few years under the previous administration.”

Four bills have been given to the Parliamentary Secretariat.

1. 1. 1. • The Miscellaneous Provisions (FATF Compliance) Bill, 2025, which addresses strengthening anti-money laundering frameworks;
      2. • The Counter-Proliferation Financing Bill, 2025;
      3. • The Virtual Assets and Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill, 2025, are geared towards increasing accountability and transparency.
      4. Also listed on the agenda is the Citizenship of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which will allow citizenship for athletes whose grandparents were born in T&T.

Legislative agenda

During the parliamentary recess, Government MPs—including the Prime Minister—hosted consultations on “stand-your-ground” draft legislation and the budget. The Prime Minister announced that her Government will increase the legal age for consumption of alcohol to 21 and gambling and marijuana use to 25, so legislation is in train for these plans.

Before the parliamentary recess, the Persad-Bissessar Government brought several legislative changes to the Parliament:

1. 1. 1. • The first was the Children’s Life Fund (Amendment) Bill, which sought to expand the reach of the fund;
      2. • The Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority (Repeal) Bill, which served to get rid of the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority—a measure of the former government;
      3. • The Finance (Supplementary Appropriation) (Financial Year 2025) Bill, 2025, also known as the mid-year budget review.

In June, Tancoo put the country on notice about the challenging state of the economy, saying the “fiscal and financial recklessness and the free-for-all” undertaken by the former administration forced the UNC Government to increase expenditure by $3.1 billion for three months. This brought the total appropriation for 2025 to $62.8 billion. The original budget presented last September was $59.7 billion.

In June, the Government brought the controversial Prime Minister’s Pension (Amendment) Bill, passed with support in the Senate.

The passage of this bill meant former prime minister Stuart Young will not be entitled to a pension of about $87,000 per month, having served for less than a year. Young was prime minister for six weeks after former prime minister Dr Keith Rowley demitted office early.

 

 

Banks, insurers vulnerable to shocks given sovereign exposure

2025, 09/13

The Central Bank’s 2024 Financial Stability Report offers a cautionary assessment of the local financial sector, warning that the system remains increasingly exposed to sovereign risk. High sovereign concentration in the banking and insurance sectors was one of four potential risks to domestic financial stability.

The others were increasing cyber incidents, heightened liquidity risk and rising household indebtedness.

While the financial system continues to demonstrate resilience, the report makes clear that the deepening entanglement between the State and key financial institutions, particularly commercial banks and insurance companies, represents a growing vulnerability.

At the heart of this concern is what the Central Bank report refers to as “sovereign concentration” in the financial sector. This refers to the extent to which commercial banks and insurers hold Government-issued securities such as Treasury bills and bonds as part of their investment portfolios. When a substantial portion of a financial institution’s assets is tied up in government debt, the institution becomes more exposed to the fiscal health of the State itself. If the Government’s financial position weakens, the value of those assets may fall, or worse, they may become unrecoverable.

This relationship is particularly relevant in the context of 2024, when the Government’s fiscal deficit widened more than expected. General government debt expanded by approximately 3 per cent or $4 billion, reaching $140.6 billion by the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2024. As 52.6 per cent of this is attributed to domestic sources, commercial banks and insurers have elevated exposures to the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Much of this new borrowing was used to support the budget and to refinance existing facilities. While the last government did issue a US$750 million bond on international capital markets, domestic financing remained the primary source of funds. Most of this came from local commercial banks and insurers, further reinforcing the sovereign concentration in these institutions’ balance sheets.

Although the last government’s decision to tap the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund (HSF) for US$369.9 million (approximately TT$2.5 billion) helped ease some immediate fiscal pressures, buffers like the HSF and official reserves are not unlimited. Continued reliance on them without corresponding fiscal consolidation could raise red flags among investors and ratings agencies alike.

Debt rollover risk is another key area flagged by the Central Bank. Nearly one-fifth of the last Government’s borrowing in fiscal 2024 was dedicated to refinancing maturing debt.
At the same time, interest payments on external debt continued their upward trend, limiting the government’s flexibility.

By the end of the fiscal year, data showed that 8.7 per cent of total debt would be due within the next 12 months, most of it on the domestic side.
This could pose difficulties for future debt refinancing initiatives.

Local financial institutions are vulnerable to interest rate risk as most of the sovereign domestic debt held carry fixed interest rates.

Due to the inverse relationship between interest rates and the value of government bonds, an increase in the yield curve decreases the bond’s value in the financial institutions’ portfolio, which may affect returns.

Central Bank Governor, Larry Howai told media the institution is considering increasing interest rates in order to attract foreign exchange back into the system. The structure of T&T’s yield curve in 2024 added further complexity. With a steep upward slope, the yield curve indicated that investors were demanding higher returns to hold longer-term government debt. This is usually interpreted as a sign that markets perceive higher risk over time.

The Central Bank also examined the potential fallout of these dynamics for financial institutions, using a range of stress tests. While the banking sector’s exposure to Government debt as a share of total assets declined slightly by the end of 2024, the insurance sector increased its holdings, making it more susceptible to any deterioration in public finances.

 

 

First budget test for Tancoo

Economists: Get real on deficit, debt and diversification

September 6, 2025

Economists signalled that the first national budget of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s Government must contain remedies to address economic challenges it inherited. Former minister in the Ministry of Finance Mariano Browne and economist Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon revealed what they believe should be included in the upcoming budget to be delivered by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo in October.>

Brown: Deficit may worsen

Browne said a budget was “a time for realism” in deciding what could be achieved within a year.  The United National Congress’s (UNC’s) economic vision is “centred on creating sustainable jobs, supporting small businesses and driving entrepreneurship across the country. We understand the challenges of inflation and the rising cost of living, which is why we are committed to providing relief for working families. By investing in key industries and empowering local businesses, we aim to stimulate growth and build a resilient economy that benefits everyone. Our plan focuses on ensuring that no one is left behind as we work towards a prosperous future for Trinidad and Tobago”.

He however added: “The issue is how.”

Pointing out that the UNC’s manifesto contained few specifics, he said: “None of this general direction can be achieved in the short run unless there is a significant new oil or gas find. On the campaign trail, it ( UNC) made several promises. These include maintaining utility rates and improving the wage negotiation offers, which means a higher wage bill.

That means a higher public expenditure. Recurrent revenue is hard-coded—meaning that there are few opportunities to reduce expenses.”

Browne outlined several challenges:

In the last 15 years, there has been a budget surplus once, in 2022. This is unlikely to change. In 2025, the deficit is expected to be close to $10 billion. With no rise in revenue or decrease in expenditure, it could worsen.

Petrochemical, oil and gas prices are soft. New tariffs will affect the profitability of petrochemical companies and therefore the tax revenue derived from this sector. The combined effect of these factors and the increasing wage bill is likely to worsen the deficit in 2026 and 2027, unless taxes are raised or expenditure is reduced.

To finance the deficit, the Government will need to borrow in the domestic and foreign markets. Additional borrowing may be limited by a weak credit rating. Failure to adjust expenditure could negatively impact the rating and increase debt-servicing costs.

Maintaining a high deficit places additional pressure on foreign exchange. Foreign exchange scarcity is affecting the capacity of local companies to expand. The difficulty lies in increasing revenue by raising taxes, decreasing expenditure, or a combination of both, and persuading citizens that there is no alternative.

Arjoon: Consider divesting some state assets

The new Government inherited a precarious financial situation, with a debt burden of over $144 billion, a significant overdraft in the Consolidated Fund of more than $46 billion, and foreign exchange reserves totalling US$4.8 billion in July—now lower than the country’s external debt. This combination of declining revenues, heavy fiscal pressures and external vulnerability due to the US tariff underscored the gravity of the challenge.

Arjoon recommended focusing on “six Ds”— deficit, divestments, dollar, diversification, decentralisation and debt management.

On the deficit, the Government had so far shown a commitment to better cost management and accountability:

“In the budget, I expect they may be looking to re-prioritise some expenditure from low-impact transfers to high-multiplier capital expenditure, as capex or infrastructure spending is the most productive aspect of government spending which stimulates more productivity and growth.

Since we are in a tight financial spot, I would also urge that they consider divestments of certain State assets or State entities, as the proceeds from the sale will help to meet State spending without putting extra pressure on the debt levels.”

Some of these entities absorbed much-needed State funds each year; redirecting those resources to more productive avenues could support diversification.

“Though there is still some legroom to borrow, they should be looking at a healthy mix of financing sources to meet their budget commitments and not just borrowing. They may also provide some info on any revision to the fiscal packages being offered to energy companies to encourage greater investments in the local upstream sector, as 80% of our forex earnings comes from energy exports.”

An update on tariff negotiations could also be expected, since the 15% tariff could affect petrochemical exports to the US.    Strategies to expand market share in other regions would also be important.

The mid-year review outlined plans to boost non-energy production and exports and this should remain a focus. Strategies to build confidence and ease the cost of doing business locally—such as minimising port and Customs disruptions and attracting additional non-energy foreign direct investment—would be crucial to boosting diversification and generating sustainable foreign exchange inflows.

“These must be part of a medium-term debt and FX-liquidity plan that rebuilds reserves without choking private-sector FX needs. A clear plan should also be presented to lower the food import bill, and revamp the agriculture sector, through introducing smart agriculture technologies and practices locally, that can optimise agriculture production per acreage, again in line with the diversification thrust and reduce the dependency on food imports.”

 

 

 

 

NEL

September 5, 2025

National Enterprises Ltd (NEL) chairman Ingrid Lashley announced her resignation at the company’s 24th annual general meeting yesterday. Her departure follows that of Ross Alexander, who is past the retirement age of 70 for board members, and Nicole De Freitas, former banker and IT specialist, who plans to focus on her company.

The State-controlled investment holding company, listed on the T&T Stock Exchange, reported a total comprehensive loss of $348.7 million for its fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, a decrease compared to the previous year’s loss of $455.1 million.

Shareholders approved a final dividend of 11 cents per share. Those on record as at September 16, 2025, will receive payment on September 29, 2025. Lashley, who was questioned by a shareholder about the circumstances surrounding her departure, said after 9 years of service, it was time to move on.

A shareholder asked, “Did you receive any correspondence from the Corporation Sole telling you to leave, or is it of your own accord?” Lashley responded, “Like the other two directors who have retired, we were coming up for rotation at the next annual meeting, which we thought would have been in June, and in planning for that meeting after the year-end publication of the financials of NEL, the three of us indicated to the sitting minister at the time, Vishnu Dhanpaul, that we were not available.”

Lashley noted that incumbent auditors will retire but are eligible for reappointment and they expressed willingness to be reappointed.

Another shareholder asked about NEL’s shareholding in NGC NGL. Lashley responded, “NEL’s mandate is to give citizens of Trinidad and Tobago an opportunity to invest in the energy sector, and that accounts for the majority of our shareholders. TTLNG and NGC NGL are under the purview of (National Gas Company) and a new board at the NGC will take steps to reconsider the matters that remained outstanding after the transition of Government because the director of NGC will be on our board at NEL, and through that relationship, we will be able to keep in touch with the oversight at NGC NGL,”

Lashley said she understood why shareholders might be concerned about whether her resignation was linked to the change in Government.

“It would be naive not to consider that that could have been an option, but to the credit of (Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo), he and I have been liaising from the Monday after his appointment very closely. We have made recommendations on the process and what our options are for change. He has given us an audience and supported some of our recommendations, so we have had no issues. Some of our directors offered their resignations, of course, and that will be dealt with in good time, but we had no controversy.”

 

 

 

Tancoo’s tone

4 September

The national postal service, TTPost, on August 29 suspended the duty-free export of goods to the US. The US abolition of the “de minimis exemption,” which allowed items valued at US$800 or less to enter without duty, precipitated the abrupt move, a big blow to small businesses.

It’s the perfect example of what Minister of Finance Davendranath Tancoo is up against as the financial year ends and he prepares to unveil the UNC government’s first budget. After an early fumble over property tax refunds, the minister has learned his lesson. He has kept his cards close to his chest. His tenacious mid-year review, which by its nature maintained the trajectory set by the last government, disclosed little in terms of a shift in approach to management of the treasury.

Reached for comment on a range of issues, the Fyzabad MP has been coy or otherwise general. On the firing of a central bank governor, he declined to give reasons in Parliament. On forex, he has dropped breadcrumbs and suggested there will be “fallout” in terms of banking personnel. Obligations to public sector workers will be met, he has assured, but how so has not been specified. In contrast, Tancoo’s carefully timed Independence Day greeting was revealing.

“Our development and economic success must not only be measured by what the country produces as its gross domestic product (GDP) but by how it benefits all our citizens. In this regard, while there is much to celebrate, we cannot ignore the pressing challenges we face on many fronts.”

Of note is the minister’s tone. Economic indicators like GDP levels, foreign reserves and debt ratios have long been used to gauge performance.

The UNC pointed to such indicators to critique the management style of the PNM. Such figures are essential but a gap has opened between them and the experience of ordinary citizens.

Here, Tancoo departs from his predecessors in admitting this. Tempered by his acknowledgement of challenges ahead, this may well be a precis of the entire budget to come. His further statement that progress requires “clear goals, tough decisions, focused effort and unwavering resolve” may be a sign that a bold blueprint for the economy is coming. Such a blueprint from the state, as opposed to a time-worn yet ineffective reliance on private-sector resilience, is badly needed. This will be the minister’s first budget, but he is hardly operating from a clean slate.

Colm Imbert’s recent questioning of the fate of loan arrangements for works being reportedly diverted to pay salaries is a case in point. The former finance minister sees no irony in raising an issue that exposes the fact that a decade of PNM practices and pre-existing conditions might encumber the new administration.

Much has been kicked into the long grass. This, too, will be a big part of Tancoo’s task as he sets forth a pathway to 2026.

 

 

 

Eradicate corruption at URP

2025,  09/13

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar reiterated her Government’s commitment to tackling corruption in the Unemployment Relief Programme (URP), following the recent termination of 400 workers.   Outside Parliament, Persad-Bissessar said the move was part of a broader effort to clean up state-funded employment schemes and ensure taxpayers’ money is being used responsibly.

“We cannot continue this. What is even more important is that intelligence coming from the TTPS and other protective services is not just about the corruption and ghost gangs, it is the infiltration by criminal elements, and as you know, I am totally against any criminality at any stage. Maybe you’ll say we can’t stop it from the days of Adam and Eve but we have to do all we can to root out criminality.”

The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government terminated 400 employees across 12 regional offices. Minister Khadijah Ameen said the move was part of a restructuring effort to eliminate long standing corruption, including “ghost gangs” and individuals who were paid without working. She maintained that the initiative was not politically motivated, but necessary to restore integrity and accountability within the programme.

San Fernando East MP Brian Manning has fired back, saying that the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) lawyers will take the Government to court over “unjust” dismissals of the workers. Yesterday, Persad-Bissessar assured that her administration is equally focused on creating new job opportunities for those affected.

“We do have several measures going forward for creating jobs and the budget, which will be coming up soon, will give more details, but we don’t intend to dismiss these persons as has happened with CEPEP and URP. We do have plans for job creation.”

The mass firings, which affected 12 regional corporations, have drawn sharp criticism from trade unions and the Opposition. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles said she was not confident about the Government’s proposed plans to rehire workers who faced the chopping block.

“Let us accept the fact that the vulnerable persons working at URP and CEPEP, can’t pay rent, buy schoolbooks, buy uniform, and basic supplies.

The truth is, even if you argue there are persons who you claim are involved in some sort of illegal activity, what about the others? We know it’s thousands of people that are employed in URP and CEPEP who depend on the salaries. We want a fair day’s work and a fair day’s pay.”

Beckles acknowledged that she does not condone corruption, but challenged the Government to be more transparent about the decision and provide evidence to the public.

“If you have those facts and that is absolutely true, then we are waiting for them to give us proper details, and if that is so, you take the appropriate action,” she said.

According to Beckles, the recent firings at URP aligned with what she said was the Government’s “pattern of dismissals.”

“It is consistent with the activities we have seen with the Government…you started with WASA, sent home WASA workers at the leadership level, you didn’t allege corruption. Then you have CEPEP, Land Settlement Agency, recently people from Heritage at a senior level resign, governor of the Central Bank, so URP is one of the multiplicity of interventions from the Government.”

Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath took the Opposition Leader to task for being part of a government that oversaw the proliferation of the alleged corrupt practices.

“The authorities were also raising these matters with the former administration, which had been in power for over nine and a half years, and allowed this to flourish under them, and that is why the crime has run away. The gangs had felt as though they were empowered because they were receiving funding from the state.”

The minister maintained that the Government will continue to weed out corruption across all agencies to prevent the haemorrhaging of taxpayers’ dollars.

 

 

 

Digital economy rewired

4 September

Innovation is key for SME success.

TRINIDAD and Tobago must move urgently to adapt its economy to the realities of digitalisation or risk being left behind, warned experts at the Central Bank’s annual Research Review Seminar on September 3.

The Digital Economy: Rewiring the Analogue Economy to Achieve Durable Benefits, convened leaders from government, the private sector, academia and finance to debate how technology, policy and infrastructure can reshape outdated systems for long-term competitiveness. Central Bank deputy governor Dr Dorian Noel opened the seminar, noting that digitalisation is no longer optional.

“At the bank, we fully recognise the potential of digitalisation to enhance and improve economic outcomes,” he said, adding that concepts such as artificial intelligence and digitalisation “can no longer afford to be treated as mere falsehood. Instead, they form an integral part of our daily existence.”

The Central Bank’s 2021-2026 strategic plan placed digital solutions at the core of monetary policy, financial stability and internal operations.

“Digitalisation is now widely regarded as one of the most powerful tools for enabling and achieving sustainable growth and development.”

He cautioned transition must be inclusive, secure and resilient.

“Careful consideration must be given to the best approach to address citizens who may be potentially compromised by the development of the digital economy… paramount importance must be given to building public confidence in our ability to defend against cyber actors and digital viruses.”

The discussion was framed in terms of 3 simultaneous global shifts – globalisation, decarbonisation and digitalisation – reshaping economies and industries. Kirk Henry, group chief information officer at Ansa McAL, said,

“What we are witnessing is a retreat from the hyper-connected trade and supply chains that dominated the last three decades. For TT, a country historically reliant on hydrocarbons, this shift is both a challenge and, I dare say, an opportunity. Technology is no longer a support function – it is the foundation of competitiveness.”

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, advanced data analytics and automation are both “promise and peril.”

They bring efficiency and new business models, but also the risk of disruption and inequality.

“For small and open economies like ours, the task is not only to survive these shifts, but to position ourselves to thrive in them. That is precisely what today’s panel is about – how TT can rewire its analogue economy into a digital one, and in so doing, build durable benefits for the future.”

Henry highlighted the size of the opportunity. Citing research by Markets and Markets, he noted the global digital transformation market is set to grow from approximately US$911 billion in 2024 to US$3.2 trillion by 2030, at an annual growth rate of nearly 24 per cent.

“The question we need to ask is, how do we participate in that upcoming $3.2 trillion marketplace?”

Denyse White, deputy national chief digital officer at the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, responded by stressing that TT’s focus should be on value creation.

“The digital economy shouldn’t be simply putting technology onto an analogue existence. It’s about leveraging not just technology but process, people and an enabling environment for identifying emerging opportunities.”

TT should avoid false comparisons with countries like Estonia, whose population is similar to TT and where government services are fully digitised. Instead, TT must capitalise on its own strengths. The digital economy is an opportunity for us to leverage our unique brand, our way of doing things, our knack for creation and monetise that creation.”

Conventional ways of measuring the ICT sector underestimate its true contribution.

“Are we really measuring the impact of technology that is integrated across the board, not just technology services? We are a nation of small businesses, so we cannot use the same measurements we see globally to assess what is going on in TT.”

Collaboration and inclusion are critical.

“Government cannot do it alone. They have to partner with the private sector, who has the experience and the better measurements in terms of ROI,” White said, citing Europe’s example where digital IDs emerged from the banking sector. She urged special attention to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs): “These are the real engine of what we’re doing. If we want to stimulate activity, then we need to be looking at the lower levels in terms of business size.”

Simone Martin-Sulgan, vice-president of Liberty Caribbean TT, noted that infrastructure – particularly telecommunications – remains the backbone of digital transformation. TT has a strong foundation.

“When we think of connectivity, we often just think about internet and being able to do an Amazon purchase. But it’s connectivity, data and technology converging, and how they come together to transform people’s lives. We have two mobile providers for a population of 1.3 million and five main broadband connectivity providers. We’ve built world-class networks and are upgrading them with high-speed fibre and gigabit-ready networks.”

But resilience and security must be part of the plan.

“Preparedness is not just about connectivity. It’s about making sure the infrastructure is secure, scalable and sustainable to support the next wave of innovation.”

She pointed to initiatives like public-private partnerships and programmes to expand rural broadband access as critical to bridging the digital divide.

Entrepreneur Agyei Archer, founder of Public Good Studio, offered a practitioner’s perspective grounded in his work in technology. He described three fundamental challenges for small businesses seeking to scale digitally – basic business viability, supportive public policy and access to financial infrastructure.

“We have a very deep wealth of small business innovators and people who have great ideas. But the reality is that some of those ideas tend to be distanced from the nuts and bolts of needing to make more money than you’re spending. “

Public sector frameworks often add friction.

“We have a massive food import problem, and we started our agritech solution to solve it. We immediately identified shortages we could address by sourcing from Dominica or Guyana. But the policies and plant import regulations aren’t there, so it becomes impossible.”

Financial systems, meanwhile, remain underdeveloped for digital entrepreneurs.

“Digital business requires the ability to process money online. Unless you are a founder with either technical experience or money to hire a technical team, those implementations are hard. We don’t yet have a solution that can help a small business owner who doesn’t know much about technology set themselves up with online payments.”

What is needed is accessible financial “rails – from digital payments to loans and insurance – built into the economy. It’s really a trifecta,” he said, involving basic business understanding, public sector partnership and financial infrastructure.

Christian Upper, senior adviser at the Bank for International Settlements, joined virtually to provide an international lens. While not commenting specifically on TT, he outlined three broad themes relevant to all economies – productivity, geography and vulnerability.

First, productivity gains only come when processes are redesigned for digital, rather than simply automated.

“The first step of digitalisation was using word processors to replace typewriters. That doesn’t really change productivity. The real leap is when you tailor your processes to digital economies – when information flows automatically through systems without retyping. That’s when you get gains.”

Second, geography matters less but does not disappear.

“Digital technology allows me to deliver my remarks and listen to questions, but it doesn’t allow me to be in the coffee break to see how people think.”

For small states, this creates both opportunity and competition.

“Trinidadian firms can provide services globally, but firms from abroad can also provide services there.”

He spoke of increased exposure to cyberattacks and natural disasters.

“In the past, if there was a blackout you could still work. Now, once the battery runs down and the internet is gone, you’re paralysed. From a national security point of view, this makes economies very vulnerable.”

The stakes are high. Global e-commerce transactions are projected to reach US$4.8 trillion in 2025, and surpass US$150 trillion by 2034. Disturbed adoption is flagged as a key driving force in bolstering efficiency and delivery of domestic services. Digitalisation can facilitate the creation of new industries, foster entrepreneurship, enhance the ease of doing business and strengthen global competitiveness.

But for those benefits to be durable, the digital economy must be rewired with resilience, inclusivity and innovation at its core.

“If this is our new economic reality, then it should be a reality that is as inclusive as possible. Digital inclusion requires active participation across all societal groups to ensure a just transition,” said Noel.

 

 

 

Shift gears in next budget

2025, 09/04

Dr Bhoe Tewarie

During the five years between 1960 and 1965, 33 countries gained independent status. T&T gained Independence in 1962. Among the 33, only Singapore, Malta, Kuwait and Cyprus are doing better than T&T in per capita income. This might not be the best way of measuring, but still… it does say something. Only four of 33 countries that got independence around our time are better off than T&T.

By the same token, smaller countries, with less resources – dependencies like Bermuda and Cayman Islands, have much higher per capita incomes than T&T. So, while we are not a basket case, there are real reasons for concern. Our per capita income is falling, inequality is increasing as people lose jobs, people can’t find jobs, incomes can’t stretch far enough and the gap in income widens. Some 100,000 households (of 450,000 plus) experience varying degrees of poverty.

There is general agreement that we are overdependent on energy, our inward investment flows are negligible, export is weak, our forex is falling and we have no way of replenishing it on the current course, our debt has increased considerably and our food import bill is very high. Since 2009, our country has been running on deficit budgets. Economic recovery is nowhere in sight.

Suppose we started with food security and tried to learn from the example of others? Guyana is self-sufficient in food and has 800,000 people, two-thirds of our population. But it also has a lot of land and water and went through a lot of hardship before it found oil.

But a country like Iceland has 360,000 people and is looking after its food needs very well. Fishing in Iceland exceeds domestic demand. Agricultural production is financed by a growing tourism industry and tourists become the market to consume some of the food, which in turn promotes the growth of agriculture.

Iceland is also the world’s largest green energy producer per capita, driven by wind and geothermal energy. Everything Iceland does, we can do and perhaps do it even better. That includes the green energy we can get from the sun.

Uruguay is a South American country closer to home. It has a population of 3.4 million but provides food for 30 million. Foreign investors go to Uruguay because of confidence, security, exceptional quality of support and the level of trust built up.

Uruguay exports to 150 countries, including the demanding markets of North America and Europe. It exports to China. But its domestic production thrust is driven by information systems and other appropriate technologies. Uruguay generates 98 per cent of its electricity from renewable resources: hydro, wind, solar and biofuels. Uruguay is not abundant in natural resources, but the sun, water and wind are used effectively.

There are things T&T can learn from countries near and far, but we need to shift gears. The trajectory we are on is a path to frustration, deterioration and infighting.

Of 180 countries assessed, 80 countries are less corrupt than T&T. That is not good news. Ninety-eight countries are more corrupt than we are. That is no reason to feel better.

53 countries are now more prosperous than T&T. In the last 10 years, we have dropped five places. If a country is not prosperous, it is difficult to provide social welfare support.

In 2015, we leapt 12 points in the ease of doing business ranking. At the last ranking, we got to the lowest point we have ever been. 104 countries are easier to do business with than T&T. In the last competitiveness ranking, T&T was 79th, which means more than half of the ranked countries are more competitive.

T&T is ranked among high-income countries by the World Bank but in innovation, we are 51st, last in the group.  Out of 18 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean assessed for innovation, we are 15th.

The IMF tells us T&T is one of the least competitive countries in the world and likely to perform at a low level over the next two years. This is not good news. We must take action steps immediately.

A shift in gear is necessary and must come in the next budget. That budget must be the first of three that begin to shift the structure of production, pattern of consumption, diversify exports and increase tourist flows.

After three years, measure and evaluate. T&T must grow the economy, be more self-sufficient, export more, get investments and forex and fix a lot of things.

And the Government must explain to the citizenry what it is doing and why.

What are the other choices?

[ANSWER FROM ECO ]
35 Wholly owned State Companies ripe for Divestment

Lake Asphalt, National Marine and Maintenance Services Company Limited , National Quarries Company Limited , Trinidad and Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited , Export-Import Bank of Trinidad and Tobago Limited, First Citizens Holdings Limited , National Investment Fund Holding Company Limited , Portfolio Credit Management Limited, Taurus Services Limited, Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre Management Company Limited, Cocoa Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited , Palo Seco Agricultural Enterprises Limited , East Port of Spain Development Company Limited, Estate Management and Business Development Company Limited , Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise Development Company Limited , Export Centres Company Limited , Golden Grove – Buccoo Limited , National Commission for Self-Help Limited , National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited , National Information and Communication Technology Company Limited , National Infrastructure Development Company Limited , National Maintenance Training and Security Company Ltd, National Schools Dietary Services Limited , Port of Spain Shopping Complex Limited , Rural Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited , The CEPEP Company Limited , The Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited , The Trinidad and Tobago Solid Waste Management Company Limited , The Vehicle Management Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited, Tourism Trinidad Limited , Trinidad and Tobago Creative Industries Company Limited , Trinidad and Tobago Free Zones Company Limited, Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Business Development Limited , Urban Development Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited, Youth Training and Employment Partnership Programme (YTEPP) Limited .

 

 

Pre-budget ideas from TTCSI, Amcham T&T:   

crime, ease of doing business and digital drive

2025, 09/03

As the UNC administration prepares to deliver its first national budget, key business organisations like the T&T Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) and Amcham T&T presented a unified vision for a diversified and resilient economy. Their proposals highlight a shared understanding that a move away from traditional reliance on the energy sector is paramount, and that bold, decisive action is needed to tackle long-standing issues that are hampering growth across all sectors.

While the TTCSI provided a roadmap centred on various sectors, Amcham T&T called for “bold and decisive action” to tackle persistent issues that have been holding back national progress.

Crime and national security remain a top worry for these business groups.  Amcham T&T labelled this scourge as the “number one concern” for its members, citing it as a major deterrent to investment and talent retention.

The TTCSI concurred, noting its negative impact on the reputation and performance of service sectors like tourism and business process outsourcing (BPOs).  It also noted the negative impact of crime on citizens, businesses and the nation’s reputation.

“A high and seemingly uncontrollable crime rate is a major deterrent to foreign direct investment and business in general. T&T’s main drawback is not the lack of legislation, but the inefficiency of the enforcement system and the Judiciary. Strengthening these institutions, together with the rehabilitation of convicts, will go a long way in addressing crime,”  Amcham T&T said.

The organisation maintained that addressing crime must remain a top priority to rebuild trust and reduce business costs.

The TTCSI echoed this sentiment, highlighting that high crime levels particularly hurt important service-based industries like tourism, business process outsourcing (BPOs) and the creative industries. To address the issue, both bodies propose a multi-faceted approach.   Recommendations include:

1. 1. 1. • Strengthening community-based services—This involves providing more mediation, youth counselling and legal aid;
      2. • Improving the judicial system—Key proposals include digitising the court system with e-filing and case tracking, as well as introducing night courts to clear case backlogs and improve efficiency.

These measures aim to streamline the justice system and foster a more secure environment for investment and growth.   Amcham T&T further suggested that community engagement is a critical component of reducing crime.

With young people being recruited into gangs at earlier ages, it urged that the TTPS must focus on building trust and confidence within communities by:

1. 1. 1. • Increasing investment in community policing initiatives, especially through expansion of the police youth clubs;
      2. • Developing structured programmes where local police officers regularly meet and interact with community members, building trust and fostering proactive cooperation in crime prevention.

Both the TTCSI and Amcham T&T also pinpointed Government’s inefficiency as a major obstacle to economic growth, with a specific focus on the ease of doing business.
They agreed that bureaucratic delays and a lack of clear procedures are hindering business expansion, investment and daily operations.

The TTCSI further pointed out several specific challenges:

1. 1. 1. • Businesses face significant hurdles in obtaining licenses, registering, and accessing government grants;
      2. • Poor inter-agency coordination—This makes essential processes like trade compliance unnecessarily complex and time-consuming;
      3. • Trade facilitation bottlenecks—Delays in cargo inspection and clearance are a significant issue. The limited use of Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) equipment contributes to port congestion, inefficiencies, and heightened security risks.

Amcham T&T echoed these concerns, agreeing that improving the ease of doing business in T&T remains one of the most pressing needs among its members.

“Businesses continue to face long delays, unclear procedures, and regulatory inefficiencies that hinder expansion, investment, and day-to-day operations. These challenges are especially harmful to SMEs, import-dependent sectors, and companies seeking to scale regionally or globally. A clear strategy and accountable leadership must be applied across government agencies to create a predictable, transparent, and investor-friendly business climate,” it too agreed.

Amcham T&T said that as the business community seeks to work in partnership with the Government to enhance border security, it recommended the removal of VAT and duties on security-related hardware purchased by transit sheds and logistics companies that enhance border security measures.   These would include, but are not limited to, scanners.

Amcham T&T further advised that the ASYCUDA system, a computerised customs management system used for trade facilitation, must be utilised to its full potential.  The organisation’s recommendation comes in the wake of recent system disruptions, which have highlighted critical vulnerabilities.

While the system is a key tool for improving efficiency and security, it has been plagued by issues such as a lack of proper backup infrastructure and disaster recovery protocols.

“With international trade increasing, it is alarming that despite the country making significant investments in an ASYCUDA system, some modules are still to be deployed, and a manual system is still being used. Amcham T&T believes that as the country embraces digital transformation, this will also be done at our borders.”

A key cross-cutting issue affecting the ease of doing business is the current T&T-US double taxation treaty.The organisation recommended that the government initiate discussions with the US government to renegotiate this treaty, originally signed in 1970.

“The current treaty, in place since 1971, is outdated and does not align with modern global standards or reflect the evolving trade and investment relationship between T&T and the United States.

Notably, it offers no relief from the US standard 30 per cent withholding tax on dividends and interest to T&T residents, unlike treaties with regional peers like Jamaica and Barbados, which provide reduced rates as low as five per cent.”

This puts local investors at a competitive disadvantage and discourages the repatriation of US income, ultimately limiting foreign exchange inflows, reinvestment and tax revenue collection in T&T.

Renegotiation would not only enhance competitiveness but also support the development of local capital markets and better align with international tax transparency standards.
In its budget recommendations, Amcham T&T emphasised that while the Government has made progress on its national digital transformation strategy, more focussed, high-impact initiatives are necessary for T&T to become a leader in the digital economy.

Government should finalise and implement a clear, measurable national digital economy strategy with a focus on high-value industries such as software development, cybersecurity, precision agriculture and creative digital media.   A digital nomad visa policy ought to be introduced to attract foreign remote workers, stimulate tourism and diversify the economy.

This should offer competitive visa conditions, streamlined application processes and integration with local co-working, housing and community engagement initiatives, to generate foreign exchange earnings, enhance international visibility and contribute to a vibrant local digital economy.

TTCSI stated that a major obstacle to achieving digital goals is the limited capacity of service-sector MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises) as these businesses often lack access to the necessary digital tools, infrastructure and training to compete on an international level.

It is proposing the implementation a national digital services hub, subsidised training in cybersecurity, etc as well as incentivising innovation hubs and promoting export-ready digital services (eg, fintech).

 

 

 

True independence means strategic interdependence

August 30, 2025

Prof Winston Dookeran believes that true independence for countries like Trinidad and Tobago is less about separation and more about strategic interdependence.

At its 63rd anniversary of Independence, economic independence in 2025 cannot mean self-sufficiency, but rather the ability to navigate globalisation, climate change, and digital disruption on its own terms. Deeper engagement with the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) remain essential to strengthen bargaining power, expand markets and diversify economic linkages.

“True independence today lies in embedding ourselves in regional and global networks, creating buffers against volatility, embracing the green and digital transitions, and using diplomacy to expand our economic space.

Independence is less about separation and more about strategic interdependence that allows small states like Trinidad and Tobago to act with confidence in an uncertain world.”

Looking ahead, Dookeran identified three core priorities: building resilience through stronger fiscal rules and climate adaptation; driving diversification via innovation in renewables, digital services, and the creative economy; and anchoring the country’s future in regional and global diplomacy. Independence carries both personal and professional meaning.

“As a citizen, it represents the pride of nationhood, the right to shape our own destiny, and to celebrate a culture uniquely ours. As an economist, however, independence is less a single moment and more an unfinished project: the continuing task of building institutions, buffers, and capacities that make sovereignty real in a world of interdependence… Independence is therefore both memory and mission: the memory of 1962, and the mission of ensuring that the next generations inherit not just freedom, but stability and opportunity.”

On August 31, 1962, Trinidad and Tobago gained political independence with an economy rooted in oil, sugar, cocoa and a narrow set of export markets. 63 years later, it trades in liquefied natural gas, petrochemicals, manufactured goods and digital services.Yet the challenge of true economic independence remains.

The economist and former finance minister, said that Trinidad and Tobago inherited an “industrialisation-by-invitation” model shaped by the vision of Sir Arthur Lewis. “We sought to foster manufacturing and employment by incentivising foreign multinational firms to set up ‘pioneer industries.’ Yet this model baked in dependence: foreign capital dominated, and institutional capacity remained weak. This reflected the paradox of sovereignty without autonomy, where our political independence masked the deeper structural dependence of our economy. “

The economy carried forward deep colonial features.

“We continued to peg our currency to sterling, held reserves in London and relied on preferential trade agreements, thus curtailing full autonomy. The energy sector, with oil already contributing nearly 28% of GDP (gross domestic product), offered some stability, yet was not labour-intensive and so did not translate into broad-based development capacity.”

As a result, the country was not fully prepared for self-reliance.The journey toward true independence required building capacity and diversifying the base

“We lacked domestic capital, skilled human resources, and robust institutions. Our economic structure remained externally anchored; dependence remained baked into the model. This remains the unfinished task of Caribbean states transforming stability into resilience, dependence into innovation and political freedom into genuine economic autonomy.”

Reflecting on 6 decades of economic development, Dookeran observed that progress was not linear but defined by “recurrent stress events and institutional responses. We advanced when we built buffers such as the Central Bank of T&T and later, the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund; when we re-anchored macroeconomic policy with the floating of the exchange rate in 1993; and when we inserted ourselves into global markets through the LNG platform.”

He warned that prosperity often encouraged complacency.

“These cycles highlight the paradox of prosperity and vulnerability. The next turning point is ours to choose: resilience must now be built through credible fiscal rules tied to the HSF, an exchange rate regime that preserves competitiveness and a deliberate push into non-energy tradable and modern services, so that stability, equality and diplomacy reinforce each other rather than trade off.”

Oil and gas, while central to nation-building, also embedded structural weaknesses. “The oil industry created few jobs, entrenched dependence on external markets and foreign firms, and exposed the nation to volatile price cycles. Oil enabled nation-building, but it also embedded fragility into the very fabric of our economy.”

 

 

 

Vijai Ramnanansingh to act T&TEC GM

2025, 08/30

The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) has announced the retirement of general manager Chrisalston Belle, effective tomorrow after a 33-year career with the organisation. Belle held several senior positions during his tenure and was instrumental in the introduction of systems to reduce outage time, the implementation of the outage management system and the adoption of business intelligence tools to improve data-driven decision making. He introduced the Restore and Repair concept to strengthen responses to feeder trips.

In 2023, as chief Technical Officer, Belle oversaw the completion and commissioning of the Union/Gandhi 220kV circuit. The 22-kilometre backup circuit connects Trinidad Generation Unlimited in La Brea to the Gandhi Substation, supporting the transmission of electricity across the country.

T&TEC has appointed Area Manager–Distribution South, Vijai Ramnanansingh, to act as General Manager during the transition. Ramnanansingh has worked with the Commission for 22 years.

The Board of Commissioners expressed gratitude to Belle for his years of service to the Commission and extended best wishes to him in retirement.

In January, Belle was appointed T&TEC General Manager replacing current Curvis Francois, who retired in November 2024 after 38 years of service.

The Opposition earlier this month expressed concern about the future of T&TEC now that the Government is on the cusp of rejecting the recommendations of the Regulated Industries Commission (RIC) to increase electricity rates. In 2022, after public consultation, the RIC drafted a report with recommendations to increase electricity rates for residential and commercial customers over a five-year period.

Minister of Public Utilities, Barry Padarath, rejected the recommended increases, stating that citizens should not have to pay for the Government’s failure to pay its debts.

 

 

 

Independent Senator Sophia Chote replaces Deoroop Teemal

New Senators 17 September 2025

Former president of the Law Association Sophia Chote, SC, has been sworn-in as an Independent Senator,  inheriting the vacant seat of the late senator Deoroop Teemal. This is her second senatorial stint after her appointment as independent senator in 2015.
Journalist Wesley Gibbings, vice president of Media Institute of the Caribbean was appointed a temporary independent senator to act for Dr Desiree Murray.

 

 

 

Republicanism is more than democracy

24 September

PRIME MINISTER Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked the 49th anniversary of Trinidad and Tobago becoming a republic by recounting accomplishments and anticipating more progress for future generations.

In her Republic Day message on September 23, she said, “Today, we look forward and recognise that the independence of our state institutions must be renewed to drive fairness, accountability, and progress so future generations can inherit a republic defined by freedom and equal opportunity for all citizens.

Forty-nine years ago, on August 1, 1976 Trinidad and Tobago became a constitutional republic. The then-government declared September 24, 1976 as Republic Day which coincidentally was the 20th anniversary of the PNM’s first election victory in 1956.

Republicanism is a form of government that is more than just a democracy. A constitutional republic, in addition to honouring democratic principles, institutes checks and balances on the government, to limit power and protect the constitutional rights of individuals and minorities.”

However, in 1976, when TT replaced the British monarch with our own president, our new republican constitution should have established checks and balances and created independent institutions to protect rights and ensure that governance served citizens, not partisan interests. The republican constitution imposed on citizens was highly flawed. It was passed when there was no elected opposition, due to the “No Vote” campaign of 1971, after the Black Power uprising.

In 1972, former prime minister Eric Williams appointed Sir Hugh Wooding to head a Constitution Commission. The Wooding Commission created a widely respected constitution, which made progressive changes to the system of government. These changes included a fairer electoral system with proportional representation, an end to the unelected senate creating a single-chamber National Assembly, a president widely elected by members of the National Assembly, city, borough and county councils and many other innovations.

Williams typically rejected the Wooding Commission report and imposed the 1976 Republican Constitution which gave the prime minister slightly more power than before, and made “independent” institutions a sham, as they were appointed by the president, who became a creature of the ruling party.

The UNC made efforts to reform and strengthen the republic. The UNC government of 1995-2000 advanced the Freedom of Information Act, Judicial Review Act, and Equal Opportunity Act.

The government during her first tenure as prime minister (2010-2015) modernised parliament with Prime Minister’s Questions, introduced proportional representation in local government, enacted landmark procurement legislation, and advanced measures for fairer resource distribution.

“Each of these initiatives upheld one principle: democracy must empower all our people,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar, who was elected for a second term as Prime Minister on April 28, said, “Happy Republic Day, TT. May God always bless our great nation.”

 

 

 

September 24 – a PNM anniversary

Dr Kirk Meighoo

Conducting PhD research in the UK from 1997-2000 on the politics of Trinidad and Tobago from our first election in 1925 to 2000, I discovered that many things we took for granted as “facts” about politics in Trinidad and Tobago were actually untrue.

It was quite shocking. It started with Eric Williams’s History of the People of Trinidad and Tobago, published at Independence in 1962. In that book, Williams erased from our history Albert Gomes and his first ministerial government (which preceded the PNM), the movement toward independence via the West Indies Federation (begun in 1947, before the PNM existed) and all of the politics and politicians from 1925-56, as if politics and political parties started with the PNM in 1956. Unfortunately, this PNM view of history became the accepted history of the country, especially after they took control of the education system from 1960 with the Concordat.

One of the things revealed in my book is that September 24, 1976, was not the day that Trinidad and ­Tobago became a republic—but another anniversary. We became a republic on August 1, 1976, then our Discovery Day holiday, commemorating Christopher Columbus.    Notably, Prime Minister Eric Williams— historian of Capitalism and Slavery—­refused to declare August 1 Emancipation Day for the 25 years he was in office and observed Discovery Day right up to his death.

The PNM declared September 24, 1976, as Republic Day. Why this day? September 24, 1976, was the 20th anniversary of the PNM’s first election victory in 1956.

The PNM was and is well aware of this, of course. So every year, the country inadvertently celebrates the first day the PNM won a general election (narrowly, without a legislative majority, in 1956), rather than the day the country became a republic.

The official reason given by the PNM is that September 24 is the day the first Republican Parliament sat. However, March 26 could have been chosen, as the day “the Act to establish the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and to enact the Constitution thereof in lieu of the former Constitution” was accepted in ­Parliament; or March 29, the day the Act was assented to.

Not only is the date problematic, but so is our Republican Constitution itself. Firstly, it was passed with no elected opposition due to the “No Vote” campaign of 1971, after the Black Power uprising. (This was later “rectified” by PNM members JRF Richardson and Horace Charles “crossing the floor” and creating an “opposition”, which predictably did not survive for the 1976 election.

In 1972, Williams appointed Sir Hugh Wooding to head a constitution commission which would seek out the widest possible views. The Wooding Commission compiled a widely praised and respected Constitution, which made serious changes to the 1962 Constitution. It comprised a fairer electoral system which included proportional representation, an end to the unelected Senate, a single-chamber National Assembly, a President elected by members of the National Assembly, city, borough and county councils and many other innovations.

However, after their report was submitted, Williams lambasted the Wooding Commission for 9 hours in Parliament, saying, among other things, that it was a “dagger aimed at the heart of the PNM”. This is a telling admission, that a fairer electoral system would be the death of the PNM.

In its place, Williams imposed the 1976 Republican Constitution which was almost exactly like the unsatisfactory 1962 Independence Constitution, except the Governor-General was replaced by a largely ceremonial President. The PNM sold the country a token version of Republicanism. Instead of meaningful checks and balances, the new Constitution gave the Prime Minister even greater power. The supposedly “independent” institutions remained under the influence of the PNM, since the President was chosen by Parliament.

The flawed first-past-the-post electoral system with “scientifically gerrymandered” boundaries was left in place. This allowed the PNM to form government several times without winning the majority of votes, while minimising or shutting out other parties completely. This makes a mockery of the claim that sovereignty in our Republic resides with the people.

In 1996, Basdeo Panday’s UNC government replaced Republic Day holiday with Spiritual/Shouter Baptist Liberation Day.

In 2002 the PNM reinstated Republic Day and in 2017 they tied the national awards to it for added significance. But the fundamental truth remains: we became a republic on August 1, not September 24, the anniversary of the PNM’s slim 1956 victory.

Like our story of independence, ­Republic Day has been distorted by PNM politics. If we are to move forward as a nation, our history must be told correctly, not the PNM version of it.

The full truth of our history must be taught in schools and acknowledged in society. We cannot continue to live under PNM lies, designed only to keep them in power, holding us back from fulfilling our true potential.

Citizens must know when we truly became a republic and why our Constitution failed to deliver real democracy. We must forge ahead and finally institute a proper republican constitution, with a fair and proper system of elections and boundaries, thinking creatively and big about our future political development.

This is my personal statement and conviction.

 

 

 

Obituary

Former minister Dr Lenny Saith laid to rest

Lenny Saith 1935-2025

After his death yesterday, accolades poured in for former PNM deputy leader and chairman Dr Lenny Saith, remembered by peers, politicians and the President as a pioneer of the Point Lisas Industrial Estate, People’s National Movement parliamentarian, public servant, government minister, and, through decades of service, always soft-spoken and humble.

Approaching 90, Saith died at his San Fernando home. He was an engineer whose early life’s work— at Trintoplan and as the Government’s Chief planning and construction engineer—contributed to projects that catapulted T&T upwards. He retired in 2010.

He emerged after the crushing defeat of the PNM by the 33-3 victory of the National Alliance for Reconstruction in 1986. Saith assisted then opposition leader Patrick Manning, becoming his ally throughout their years in politics and frequently acted as prime minister in the Manning administration.

His parliamentary career began in 1987 as a temporary Opposition senator until 1990. He became a PNM deputy leader and chairman, government Senate leader 10 ten years after entering government in January 1992 with the Manning administration and served in other terms up to 2007.

Saith held ministerial portfolios of Planning and Development, Public Administration and Information and the additional portfolio of Minister of Energy and Energy Industries. He was minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and in Trade and Development. He was awarded the Order of the Republic of T&T in 2017. He was among inaugural recipients of the Dr Eric Williams Medal of Honour, the PNM’s highest accolade in 2018.

Offering sincere condolences to Saith’s family, friends and colleagues, President Christine Kangaloo said, “Dr Saith devoted decades of service to the people of Trinidad and Tobago, holding several ministerial portfolios across successive Parliaments. The Office of the President expresses profound gratitude for his enduring service to our nation and joins the national community in mourning his loss.”

Former Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley stated , “I am very saddened by the news as I reflect on my long association with this stalwart of public service to Trinidad and Tobago. In all these years sharing time, space and responsibility , through storms and provocations, I have never seen him frown or utter a word in anger. He was always that calming voice that steered discussions to reason and good outcomes.”

Sister-in-law Diane Seukeran recalled. Saith was among the legendary technocrats who crafted the Point Lisas Industrial Estate under late Prime Minister Dr Eric Williams.

“Lenny was low profile but very present. My brother-in-law was a remarkable man, quiet and peaceful, but when he spoke, voicing volumes of sense and wisdom.”

Faris Al-Rawi said, “He was a public servant par excellence—a man who was the very antithesis of a politician.”

Opposition PNM leader Penny Beckles said he was a colossus in all his spheres of influence and left an indelible mark in every space—professional, social and personal— he occupied. Despite his many accolades and achievements, Dr Saith had no airs about him. He was a simple and humble man. He sought neither position nor status and endeared himself to many who loved working with him. He was known to encourage people to operate at levels they did not know or believe they were capable of.

“He brought professional fervour to the chairman’s portfolio and tremendously aided in turning the party’s fortunes around.”

Former PNM chairman Conrad Enill said, “While a lot of policy decisions were being taken, Dr Saith led that process. In many instances, he was a mentor and implementer. He had corporate experience, bringing that special skill to the governance process and in that way, success in many things was achieved within specific timeframes.

He created a sense of peace, calm and stability that allowed others to do their best work. In many instances, he stood as the defence mechanism between young individuals entering and the reality of politics. We owe him a debt of gratitude for his contribution.”

Saith is survived by his wife, Radica; daughters Resha and Malini; granddaughter; his in-laws, including Diane Seukeran; and nephew, PNM senator Faris Al-Rawi, and his twin sister, Aasma Al Rawi-Sinanan.

Former PNM general secretary Ashton Ford said, “Dr Lenny Saith can best be remembered as the steady hand and guiding presence at the crossroadswithin the PNM. From the moment he entered the party, he joined forces with then political leader Patrick Manning and Dr Keith Rowley in the monumental task of rebuilding the movement after its shattering election defeat in 1986,the first electoral loss for the party in 30 years…Yet, Dr Saith and his colleagues embraced the challenge.

Tirelessly, for five long years, they journeyed from constituency to constituency, speaking at cottage meetings—sometimes to quiet gatherings, sometimes to spirited audiences in PNM strongholds. With compassion and determination, they sought to heal wounds, restore confidence, and rekindle PNM’s spirit. Their perseverance was rewarded in 1991, when the PNM returned triumphantly to office.”

In 1992, at the party level, Saith was elected chairman, a position in which his calm demeanour and steady leadership became invaluable. ..when many MPs and Senators were newcomers, Dr Saith was the unifying figure, methodical, businesslike and respected for fairness.

“He approached disputes with wisdom and tact, settling matters swiftly and decisively, within the party and in his ministerial responsibilities.”

Ford worked with Saith as parliamentary secretary in the Public utilities and Transport ministry. Saith served as vice chairman of the public transport service commission (PTSC).

“Even then, his leadership qualities, humility and commitment to service shone through. His political journey was marked by distinction…. His trusted partnership with prime minister Manning underscored the confidence reposed in him, a testament to his unwavering dedication and competence. Though he retired from active politics in 2010, Dr Saith continued making meaningful contributions while the party was in opposition… He leaves behind a legacy of humility, dignity and resolute commitment to the PNM and the nation. He’ll forever be remembered as a man of calm strength, deep respect and selfless service, who carried out every duty entrusted to him with grace and honour.”

Former MP Randall Mitchell  said, “Dr Saith was a dedicated public servant—one of the PNM’s great strategists. He gave decades of service to our country, holding key ministerial portfolios and always working with commitment, discipline and vision for national development. His legacy of service and loyalty to party and country will always be remembered.”

As his final rites were performed, Dr Lenny Saith was remembered as a man of quiet strength and love for his country. Saith was laid to rest under Hindu rites at the age of 89.

Saith was cremated after the funeral service, attended by former prime minister Dr Keith Rowley and his wife, Sharon , Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, former health minister Terrence Deyalsingh and former finance minister Colm Imbert, among others.

Eulogised by his two daughters Malini and Reshma, the former engineer-turned-government minister was remembered for both his engineering and political prowess and contributions to his home and family. Reshma recalled that her father returned to Trinidad, having pursued academic achievements abroad.

His legacy was in engineering with Trintoplan, in education and in infrastructure. The country was his love that he never wanted to leave.

“He came back to Trinidad post his University of Toronto PhD in civil engineering to real-field country, like himself, full of promise and potential on which to make his mark. He was a die-hard patriot . There was no talk from him about how it was in the UK, US, in Singapore. He could borrow their ideas and incorporate them, but Trinidad was his love, and he was never leaving. It had given him so much; so, he would return the favour. He came from that generation that had the discipline of showing up to work every day early. He believed that if you worked hard, your work would be noticed and rewarded. There was a consistency, a steadfastness that people of his generation seem to embody. He was a brilliant engineer, a specialist in roads and bridges, a connoisseur of concrete.”

Malini, spoke of her father’s impact on the lives of herself, her sister, daughter and mother. Her father was a man of few words whose words held meaning, weight and value. Saith did not have a wonderful life but a wondrous one that inspired awe and astonishment to those who knew him. Coming from humble beginnings, he had endured much and achieved much, despite his challenges.

He was born into a family of modest means…riding a bicycle from Chaguanas to QRC (Queen’s Royal College). From those humble beginnings, he earned scholarships that took him to India for his first degree, then the UK and Canada where he completed both his Master’s and PhD. Then, remarkably and selflessly he came back home and dedicated himself to its infrastructure, development and its growth. His years in government were profound and lasting. He placed value on the importance of education, kindness, compassion and humility.

“He was too multifaceted, too extraordinary for any single tribute to contain; but I am here to say Goodbye to the father and grandfather who was such a vital loving part of our lives.”

Saith entered Parliament in January 1992, serving as Minister of Planning and Development and Leader of Government Business in the Senate during the Fourth Republican Parliament. His maiden parliamentary contribution was on January 22, 1992, during debate on a bill to provide for the service of Trinidad and Tobago for that financial year.

In the Eighth Parliament, he was appointed Minister of Public Administration and Information and later given the additional portfolio of Minister of Energy and Energy Industries. By November 2007, in the Ninth Parliament, he served as Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister. Over the course of his political career, he also held responsibility for Trade and Development. He was Senate Leader for ten years and in 2017, he was bestowed with the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.