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THE Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TT Chamber) achieved a major milestone with the successful staging of its first-ever Annual Post Budget Meeting in South Trinidad. The event, held at Le Rêve Conference Centre, C3, San Fernando, under the theme “Unlocking Trinidad and Tobago’s Next Generation Economy,” attracted a strong turnout from both public and private sector stakeholders and has been widely hailed as a resounding success. In her opening remarks, CEO of the TT Chamber, Ms Vashti G Guyadeen, emphasised that the Chamber’s move to host this flagship event in South Trinidad was deliberate and strategic. “Our presence here today is no coincidence,” she stated. “It represents the Board’s firm decision to bring this national dialogue to a region that continues to drive innovation, production, and transformation.” The meeting served as a dynamic platform for dialogue and collaboration between government officials, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders, including representatives from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The discussions centred on an in-depth analysis of the 2026 National Budget and its implications for business growth, economic diversification, and national resilience. President of the TT Chamber, Mrs Sonji Pierre-Chase, provided the framework for the day’s conversations, pointing to the complex environment in which businesses now operate. “Balancing the performance of our energy sector, inflationary pressures, shifts in consumer behaviour, and the need for digital transformation with the drive for diversification in manufacturing, agriculture, and services are critical priorities,” she said. “Bold fiscal and policy decisions are now essential if we are to achieve sustainable recovery and long-term resilience.” A highlight of the event was a spirited and informative exchange with the Minister of Finance, Davendranath Tancoo, and Senator Dr Kennedy Swaratsingh, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development. The discussion, moderated by immediate past president Ms Kiran Maharaj, produced valuable insights on how government and business can work together to advance economic transformation. Participants com-mended the session’s candid and solution-oriented tone, which encouraged collaboration rather than criticism. Several attendees noted that such open dialogue is essential for bridging the gap between policy intent and business reality. significant potential for growth The meeting also featured two expert panels examining both the energy and non-energy sectors. The first, “Energy and the Energy Economy,” featured former energy minister Mr Kevin Ramnarine and economist Dr Justine Ram, moderated by TT Chamber senior vice president Mrs. Karen Yip Chuck. Their discussion explored the future of the local energy industry, energy transition strategies, and the evolving global landscape that Trinidad and Tobago must navigate. The second panel, “Non-Energy Prospects,” highlighted opportunities in manufacturing, services, and entrepreneurship, with insights from Mr John Hadad, Mr Colin Ramsey, Ms Cheryl Bowles, Mr Andy Berahazar, and Mr Joe Pires. This session, moderated by Mrs Pierre-Chase, underscored the critical role of innovation, trade, and private investment in driving diversification. The overall tone of the day reflected cautious optimism. Speakers agreed that while Trinidad and Tobago faces persistent economic challenges, there remains significant potential for growth if the country embraces transformation, strengthens institutions, and creates an enabling business environment. Following the meeting’s success, the TT Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to decentralised economic development and inclusive national planning. The organisation pledged to expand its outreach, build deeper partnerships with regional business communities, and advocate for evidence-based policymaking that supports competitiveness and national progress. The TT Chamber extended its gratitude to all attendees, participants, and corporate sponsors whose contributions made the event possible. The Chamber noted that its first South-based Post Budget Meeting signals a new chapter in its mission to ensure that the voice of business is heard and acted upon at every level of national decision-making.
