Trinidad and Tobago’s drive to expand exports gains momentum at China International Import Expo

In a resolute effort to stimulate investments within Trinidad and Tobago’s borders, the government is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to elevate local products onto the global stage, with a particular focus on the vast market opportunities in China.

- Advertisement -

Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon pledges support at China Expo

Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon, at the helm of Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, reaffirmed this commitment during her official inauguration of the country’s booth at the prestigious 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) held in Shanghai, China, on November 6, 2023.

A strong foundation: Trinidad and Tobago’s relationship with China

In her opening address at the unveiling of the Trinidad and Tobago Pavilion, Minister Gopee-Scoon underscored the historically robust ties between Trinidad and Tobago and China. 

She highlighted the significant milestone of Trinidad and Tobago being the first English-speaking Caribbean nation to join the Belt and Road Initiative in 2018, which subsequently led to the establishment of the 144-acre Phoenix Park Industrial Estate.

Photo credit: Ministry of Trade and Industry

Project success reflects favorable investment environment

Minister Gopee-Scoon attributed the success of the Phoenix Park Industrial Estate to the country’s dynamic investment climate, stable political environment, highly skilled workforce, enticing incentives, and the essential security and reliability demanded for strategic international collaborations.

Demonstrating commitment to international expansion

The Minister emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in the CIIE is a testament to its unwavering dedication to identifying advantageous opportunities for local businesses to expand their horizons. 

The China International Import Expo (CIIE), inaugurated in 2018, played host to guests from over 150 countries, regions, and international organizations in the current year, further solidifying its status as a global trade spectacle. Trinidad and Tobago has been an active participant in this event since its inception.

Showcasing Trinidad and Tobago’s entrepreneurial spirit

This year’s Trinidad and Tobago CIIE Pavilion boasts an impressive lineup of businesses, each representing the country’s entrepreneurial spirit. 

Among the featured companies are Angostura Ltd, Trinidad and Tobago Fine Cocoa Company, Chief Brand Products and Karibbean Flavours, Twigs Naturals, and indigenous confectioneries hailing from the picturesque island of Tobago.

More Stories

Dhiru Tanna

JN Group pays tribute to late Deputy Chairman Dr Dhiru Tanna

The Jamaica National Group is mourning the loss of its Deputy Chairman, Dr Dhiru Tanna, who has been remembered as an influential force behind...
business

Why companies are prioritising resilience in their digital infrastructure

Organisations are no longer focused solely on efficiency, scalability or innovation. Increasingly, they are asking a more fundamental question: how well can their systems...

How Caribbean families in Florida grow generational wealth

You already work hard, but the real question is this: are you building something that lasts beyond your time? Many Caribbean families in South...
Jamaica’s unemployment rate falls to record low

How to get enterprise features on an affordable work-from-home plan

Enterprises and growing SMBs can deliver secure, compliant work-from-home experiences without paying a premium for all-in-suite price. This listicle outlines practical selection priorities and...
Jamaica Ed Bartlett Gastronomy Academy

Minister Bartlett calls for Caribbean Tourism Bank

Jamaica's Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett is calling for the creation of a dedicated Caribbean Tourism Bank, urging the Inter-American Development Bank to champion a...
World Bank says global economy not growing fast enough to alleviate poverty

Latin America and the Caribbean growth slows in 2026, World Bank says

Economic growth in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is projected to slow to 2.1 percent in 2026, down from 2.4 percent in 2025,...
miami connected

Caribbean employers urged to invest in workforce development through online learning

As Caribbean workers face growing challenges in accessing higher education overseas, business leaders say online learning is emerging as a practical and scalable solution...

Can direct vs. indirect investing for NRIs change your future?

Consider the case of an NRI in New Zealand, where world markets are moving at an unprecedented pace. As of March 2025, New Zealanders...
Grenada says no to international bidding for the CDB Schools furniture project

CDB approves US$50 million loan to support Guyana

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved US$50 million in financing for Guyana through its Second Environmental Sector Policy-Based Loan (PBL), aimed at strengthening...

How creative businesses in South Carolina navigate group health insurance

For creative businesses—production companies, music studios, touring operations—health insurance isn't just a checkbox on an HR form. It's a retention tool, a recruiting advantage,...

Latest Articles