Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Satyakama Maharaj has outlined a proposed measure to prohibit the importation of goods produced through forced labour.
With an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 small and medium-sized enterprises accounting for roughly 90% of registered businesses in Trinidad and Tobago, Minister Maharaj says protecting legitimate enterprises remains a priority.
Speaking in the Senate on Friday, the Minister outlined a proposed measure to address unfair trade practices by prohibiting the importation of goods produced through forced labour while promoting fair and ethical trade.
“It is about ensuring that our marketplace does not become a destination and dumping ground for goods produced through coercion, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, or other forms of forced labour. It is about ensuring that economic success is built upon innovation, productivity, quality, and fair competition rather than the abuse of human beings.”
He said the measure is intended not only to uphold ethical trade standards but also to protect consumers and businesses from the impact of illegal and unregulated imports.
“You have pigs and animals coming in through the back door. You don’t know what disease they’re bringing in. These products may evade quality standards, avoid proper inspection, and expose consumers to unnecessary risks while simultaneously placing legitimate businesses at a competitive disadvantage.”
Minister Maharaj added that most local business operators are committed to complying with the law and growing their enterprises through responsible and sustainable practices.
“Mr President, in my engagements with manufacturers, exporters, entrepreneurs, retailers, farmers, tourism operators, and business owners throughout Trinidad and Tobago, I have consistently found that the overwhelming majority want to succeed in the right way. They want to comply with the law, treat employees fairly, produce quality products, create jobs, and build sustainable enterprises. They do not seek success through exploitation. They seek success through excellence and providing value.”
The proposed measure is expected to strengthen fair competition while promoting responsible commerce and ethical business conduct across the country.