Trade Minister Calls For Greater Support For Local Businesses
Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism, Satyakama Maharaj, is once again encouraging citizens to support local businesses.
Highlighting his Ministry’s efforts to strengthen collaboration between Government and the business community, the Minister pointed to the formation of the Private Sector Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (PSOTT).
He described the new umbrella body as a more effective mechanism for the private sector to engage with the Government.
« We encourage the formation of the Private Sector Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago, PSOTT, uniting business chambers, financial institutions, accounting firms and law firms under one umbrella so that the private sector can engage the government with one strong coordinated voice. For the first time the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism has a single strategic partner representing the breadth of Trinidad and Tobago business community. »
Minister Maharaj said the partnership will help identify challenges facing businesses more efficiently and develop solutions that support economic growth and competitiveness.
« Together we can identify challenges more quickly, develop better solutions and build a more competitive economy. Government must create the conditions for enterprise to thrive. Businesses must invest, innovate, export and create jobs. But before a business can successfully export it must first be strong at home. »
The Trade Minister also called on consumers to play their part by choosing local products and services whenever possible.
« We must support our manufacturers and service providers at home so they have the strength to conquer markets abroad. Every purchase is more than a transaction. It is an investment in Trinidad and Tobago business. An investment in new equipment. An investment in innovation. An investment in better jobs. An investment in exports. And an investment in foreign exchange our country needs to prosper. »
According to Minister Maharaj, supporting local businesses will assist in improving the local economy.
« Every competitive local product we choose, every local business we support, every Trinidad and Tobago service we use strengths our local enterprise and builds Trinbago. It creates jobs, retains foreign exchange, builds the financial capacity for our businesses to compete internationally and transform local businesses into global success stories. »
Minister Maharaj made the comments while speaking at the opening ceremony of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association’s 2026 Trade and Investment Convention on Wednesday evening. The three-day Trade and Investment Convention will culminate on Saturday.
