The Government, in collaboration with the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago, is strengthening its commitment to preserving the country’s cultural and historical legacy.
This, through the Heritage Tax Allowance Programme (HTAP), which offers tax incentives to businesses that invest in the restoration of heritage sites.
At the Launch of the Programme on Tuesday, Minister of Planning and Development Pennelope Beckles-Robinson underscored the role of cultural preservation in driving sustainable economic growth.
Describing the Launch as “more than a presentation,” she signalled a shift in how Trinidad and Tobago approaches heritage — not as a cost, but as a catalyst for progress.
“Heritage preservation and national development are not opposing forces, but rather partners in progress.”
The Minister said HTAP will allow private sector sponsors to claim up to 150% of their contributions toward approved restoration projects as an expense to reduce their tax liability.
“This isn’t just a tax incentive, it is a bridge between corporate responsibility and cultural stewardship. Globally, heritage tourism has proven to be a catalyst for job creation, economic resilience, and community pride. With HTAP, Trinidad and Tobago now has a mechanism to unlock these same benefits while preserving the unique architectural history and identity that defines us.”
Chairman of the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago, Margaret McDowall, said HTAP provides a new model for public/private partnerships to thrive.
“Beyond the financial framework, HTAP represents something bigger, a statement that our history has value, that our culture matters, that we believe in a future that honours our past. With your continued collaboration, we believe that this programme can become a catalyst for cultural pride, economic resilience, and meaningful preservation.”
Trinidad and Tobago is home to an inventory of over 420 heritage assets, many of which require urgent restoration to remain a vital part of our cultural landscape.