The Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTTI) has commenced a Vendor Regularisation Exercise targeting beach chair, umbrella and tent operators at the Maracas Beach Facility. The exercise, carried out in collaboration with the Lifeguard Services Division, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and UDeCOTT, is expected to run until October 2026.
According to a media release from the Ministry, the initiative is separate from the regularisation of food vendors at the facility, which has already been completed. This latest phase is aimed at verifying beach-chair, umbrella and tent vendors and their equipment, ensuring compliance with applicable requirements, and formalising approved operations through licence agreements, permits and clear operating protocols.
The process began with a sensitisation meeting held on July 20, during which participating vendors were issued a preliminary data-capture form, due for submission by 4:00 p.m. on July 22. An on-site verification exercise is scheduled for July 23 to confirm vendor information and identify the chairs, umbrellas, tents and storage structures tied to each operation.
Following verification, vendors will have a two-week window to relocate serviceable equipment to designated areas and remove any damaged equipment or unapproved storage structures. UDeCOTT, acting as Facilities Manager, will then conduct an on-site clean-up on August 6, with any items left behind handled according to approved notice and removal procedures. The TTPS will provide support for safety and order throughout the specified phases.
Formal applications for vending licences will be accepted online from August 7 through 11:59 p.m. on August 13. Vendors asked to provide clarification or outstanding documents after that point must submit them by September 4, though the Ministry noted that proposed dates may be adjusted as the exercise progresses.
The Ministry emphasised that applications will be assessed against predetermined criteria, and that submitting a data-capture form or application does not guarantee approval. Vendors whose applications are successful will be invited to execute licence agreements and will receive the relevant permits and operating guidelines.
The MTTI is urging all affected beach-chair, umbrella and tent vendors to participate fully in the exercise, provide accurate information, and adhere to all deadlines. Further updates will be communicated directly to vendors and published on the Ministry’s official platforms.
In its release, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the transparent and orderly management of tourism facilities and to supporting sustainable, compliant vendor activity for the benefit of vendors, visitors and the wider public. It also thanked members of the public for their cooperation as efforts continue to enhance the beach experience and position the Maracas Beach Facility as a premier destination for visitors.