Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturing sector is at the forefront of the country’s ongoing economic growth, with millions of dollars in foreign exchange earned each year from the petrochemicals market alone. It is the largest economy in the Caribbean and has the means to export heavy industry metals globally, including to the United States.
However, none of this would be possible if local manufacturing industries weren’t consistently developing, and Trinidad and Tobago recognised that almost 70 years ago. The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) was formed in 1956 to promote local manufacturers, offering them an incentive to continue maximising production.
The TTMA is held together by the commitment of its leaders – including Rolph Balgobin, a former president of the organisation – and the loyalty of its members. Together, they drive economic growth through manufacturing, with the TTMA protecting manufacturers, ensuring that government legislation is fair, and securing additional markets and investment partners.
Currently, the TTMA hopes to double its contribution to the country’s GDP, further elevating the manufacturing sector and focussing on the development of trade. In 2023, the organisation’s Trade and Investment Convention attracted around 12,000 visitors, giving TTMA members a unique opportunity to build business connections and promote their industries.
Further events and conventions are planned, but the TTMA’s focus remains set firmly on local manufacturers. In the past, they have experienced difficulties purchasing raw materials from foreign markets to bolster trade, but the TTMA’s work with the government made it easier for manufacturers to access foreign exchange. Such work continues to be necessary to building an even wider network of global connections for Trinidadian and Tobagonian tradespeople.
The country has untapped growth potential, courtesy of its extensive raw materials and reliable manufacturing infrastructure, and the TTMA is the middleman that connects the people working with those resources to the fiscal support they require. Regional and international exports have been increasing for decades, with future economic growth practically guaranteed.
But even in such a booming industry, it can be difficult for independent, local contractors to build steady businesses. Becoming members of the TTMA gives them access to expert services and tailored assistance, making it easy to set long-term goals and make real progress along the way.
The organisation’s lobbying has helped to shape the modern Trinidad and Tobago manufacturing industry, but its work is never done. It is continuously generating market expansion, promoting local tradespeople, and finding key areas for economic and industrial growth. Thanks to the TTMA’s dedication, Trinidad and Tobago will doubtless remain a top manufacturing force for decades to come.