The Honourable Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Finance, addressed Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturing industry leaders Wednesday, commending their resilience and progress while emphasizing the sector’s critical role in national economic development.
Minister Tancoo delivered the feature address and participated in a dynamic open panel discussion at the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association’s (TTMA) annual Post Budget Forum, held at the HYATT Regency Trinidad.
In his remarks, Minister Tancoo acknowledged the manufacturing industry’s ability to overcome significant challenges over the past decade, praising both the TTMA and individual manufacturers for their determination and progress.
“Given your constraints TTMA stepped up, Manufacturers stepped up. Change has come, and I look forward to all Manufacturers’ continuing to develop, grow, and work together with us as we take this country forward,” the minister stated. “You are the engine of growth of the economy of Trinidad and Tobago. You are where development will come from.”
The minister underscored the government’s strong commitment to recognizing manufacturing as a fundamental driver of the national economy, positioning the sector as essential to Trinidad and Tobago’s future economic prosperity.
While acknowledging that the recently presented national budget may not address every challenge facing manufacturers, Minister Tancoo emphasized that it establishes the groundwork for sustained economic progress.
This approach signals the government’s intention to implement gradual, strategic measures that will yield cumulative benefits for the manufacturing sector and broader economy.
Minister Tancoo invited all stakeholders to engage directly with the Ministry of Finance, stressing the importance of collaborative partnerships and shared responsibility in advancing national development.
The forum concluded with an insightful and dynamic open panel discussion moderated by Pradeep Subrian. The panel included Minister Tancoo, Mr. Dale Parson—President of the TTMA, Mr. Wade George—Executive Chairman of EY, and Dr. Indera Sagewan, Economist.
The panelists addressed several concerns and recommendations raised by the audience, providing perspectives on budget implications, manufacturing competitiveness, and strategies for economic advancement.