AGP Executive Report

Sustainable Finance Push: The Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange launched its Green, Social and Sustainability (GSS+) Bond Guidelines, aiming to channel private capital into renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and affordable housing, with success measured by follow-on deals rather than the document itself. Local Capital Markets: TTSE also moved to formalise the next step for fixed-income issuance with Stock Exchange GSS+ Bond guidelines, aligning reporting and governance with international standards. Youth & Crime Response: The Ministry of Homeland Security rolled out the Resilient Youth campaign to steer young people toward support, mentorship and school-based interventions, shifting focus from simply suppressing behaviour to addressing drivers of youth violence. Prison Smuggling Probe: Two prison officers were placed under Preventive Detention Orders over alleged contraband smuggling into Golden Grove Prison, including cigarettes and marijuana, tied to WhatsApp communications and alleged efforts to delete messages. Parliament & State of Emergency: Opposition PNM figures pressed Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to clarify whether the State of Emergency will be extended when Parliament resumes Friday, warning the public needs answers on crime plans. Trade & Investment Link: The TT Chamber’s Toronto mission sought to convert Canada ties into measurable exports and partnerships across sectors including food, tourism, technology and construction. Business Growth Spotlight: Omega Pest Management shared its reinvention story as it expanded from a small operation into a multi-sector firm with 20+ full-time staff. Energy Debate: An op-ed argued for considering a nuclear “shared energy hub” concept for electricity, industrial heat and desalination, weighing land constraints against compact generation potential. Sports Funding Pressure: SporTT declined the TTFA’s $2.5m request for Nations League expenses, citing an embargo linked to outstanding expenditure reports. Corporate Expansion: iQor announced a global Gaming Center of Excellence in Trinidad and Tobago, positioning the country as a hub for gaming player support and trust-and-safety operations.

Sports Funding Crunch: SporTT has declined the TTFA’s $2.505m request for the 2026 Concacaf Nations League, citing an existing funding embargo tied to outstanding expenditure reports, leaving the men’s campaign under fresh financial pressure. Corporate Expansion: iQor launched a global Gaming Center of Excellence in Trinidad and Tobago, positioning the new hub as a player-support and trust/safety operations base for gaming delivery. Housing Leadership: Former PNM senator Ronald Huggins was appointed managing director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), effective Sept 1, as the state housing agency moves to “execute with purpose” on its mandate. Education & Access: A High Court ruling ordered the Teaching Service Commission to release FOIA documents, while separate coverage highlights ongoing school readiness and concerns about discipline and inclusive education for children with disabilities. Trade & Diversification: TTCSI renewed its push for a “50-50 by 2030” export economy, arguing services must better convert domestic strength into foreign exchange. Local Business Performance: TTSE-listed Solis reported a 29% jump in after-tax profit to $1.57m for the quarter ended July 31, alongside an interim dividend plan. Community Literacy: Books Build Bridges and the City of San Fernando launched a child-friendly literacy drive with 10,000 donated books for schools.

Housing & Appointments: Former PNM senator Ronald Huggins was named managing director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), effective Sept. 1, as the state moves to keep the agency delivering homes. Education & Accountability: A High Court judge ordered the Teaching Service Commission to release FOIA-requested records, backing a teacher’s bid for transparency in disciplinary matters. School Readiness: Students returned across Trinidad and Tobago as the Ministry confirmed all government and government-assisted schools opened, though South Trinidad families reported lingering concerns like unfinished work and temporary arrangements. Export Push: The services sector is being urged to drive a “50-50 by 2030” export economy, with officials citing the gap between services’ GDP share and its relatively modest export receipts. Investor Literacy: TTSEC will host a National Investing Debate Competition with 22 secondary schools, aiming to build financial literacy and investor protection awareness. International Trade Ties: India’s outgoing High Commissioner called for deeper trade and commercial engagement with T&T beyond cultural links. Regional Diplomacy: Opposition figures warned that T&T’s Venezuela reset must come with accountability for earlier foreign-policy missteps.

Education & Workforce Readiness: The Education Ministry says all 777 Government and Government-Assisted schools (including ECCE centres) opened Monday 7 Sept 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year, with laptops for incoming Form 1 students expected in Term I and safety support continuing via the Police in Schools programme. Labour & Public Services: TTUTA warns schools can’t function effectively while repair work, book grants, teacher backpay and staffing contracts remain unresolved as teachers return to classrooms. Oil & Gas Dealflow: An AK&M digest highlights major global M&A in oil and gas, including Serica Energy’s bid for Pharos Energy and BP’s moves in North Sea assets and refinery sales. Energy & Diplomacy: China warns the US against interfering in Trinidad and Tobago’s technology partnerships with Chinese firms, as T&T’s ties with Venezuela continue to reset after high-level talks. Regional Business & Travel: Caribbean Airlines says it’s pushing a transformation programme and introduces new duty-free and gift-card options, while St Vincent and the Grenadines’ passport ranks 48th globally for visa-free access. Sports & Local Interest: Trinidad Chambliss’ Ole Miss begins its season with a big win over Louisville in the Music City Kickoff, keeping the spotlight on T&T talent.

Education & Labour Readiness: TTUTA says schools can’t function effectively as teachers return today unless delayed repairs, outstanding book grants, unpaid backpay, and contract renewals for key support staff are resolved, while parents and the NPTA question whether every school will be fully prepared. Tobago Justice & Corrections: Tobago inmates held in Trinidad complain of isolation and family disruption, with relatives and the Prison Officers Association calling for a modern Tobago facility to reduce burdens on families and improve conditions for those awaiting trial. Energy & Economic Outlook: A commentary argues T&T’s post-2014 slowdown stems from a weakened energy sector, noting LNG and gas production declines and warning that short-lived commodity boosts won’t deliver a lasting turnaround. Geology & Tourism Risk: A feature revisits Digity’s “mud volcano” history and raises concerns about development near the site, questioning approvals given potential damage risks. US–China Tech Tensions: China warns the US against interfering in Trinidad and Tobago’s technology partnerships with Chinese firms, escalating a wider diplomatic dispute over security and influence in the Caribbean. Business & Markets: Agostini has offered to buy remaining minority shares in Prestige Holdings at $12.15 cash per share, but a dissenting shareholder says the valuation is inadequate and wants it reconsidered.

Drug Bust & Cross-Border Crime: TTPS detained a 42-year-old businessman from the British Virgin Islands and two Saint Lucians after a Longdenville operation uncovered about 416.5kg of cocaine hidden in backhoe tyres, with an estimated value of TT$193.5m. Energy & Investment: Shell has frozen its Aphrodite natural gas project in Trinidad after failing to agree sales terms with NGC, putting the 2027 first-gas target in doubt. Local Business Climate: CPL returns were hit for some Oval-area businesses as traffic restrictions and wrecking reduced footfall and sales during match days. Regional Trade & Diplomacy: AMCHAM T&T welcomed renewed T&T–Venezuela engagement, flagging trade, energy, agriculture and investment as priority areas. Tobago Policy Watch: The THA’s proposed $500 baby grant faces scepticism as analysts argue it won’t reverse declining birthrates without broader support like housing and stable jobs. Corporate Moves: Agostini has offered to buy remaining Prestige Holdings minority shares at $12.15 cash per share, but a dissenting shareholder says the price is “woefully inadequate.” Sports With a Trini Angle: Trinbago Knight Riders beat Barbados Tridents by 35 runs at Kensington Oval, with Sunil Narine taking 4/12.

Hilton Trinidad rescue: The Government finalised a new ownership and management arrangement for Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, with state-owned eTeCK taking over shares while Hilton continues operating the hotel—removing the immediate shutdown threat ahead of the Sept. 18 lease expiry and giving workers job continuity assurances. School-term support: Parents faced delays in the School Supplies and Book Grant Initiative, but the Ministry says a two-week grace period will prevent students being penalised while more than $10m was distributed and repairs continue so all schools open Monday. Back-to-school community giving: Humingbird House Foundation distributed backpacks and supplies to 200+ children, while Xtra Foods helped repaint Mon Repos RC School for the new academic year. Venezuela reset for business: AMCHAM T&T welcomed renewed engagement with Venezuela, with trade and energy cooperation flagged; TTMA also called for a dedicated non-energy trade protocol to cut non-tariff barriers. Carnival cash pressure: Carnival stakeholders say $9m in 2026 prize money remains unpaid as September deadlines near, despite NCC payments to TTCBA. Security and crime risk: Chaguanas business groups reacted to a $193.5m cocaine seizure, urging landlords to tighten tenant checks. Tobago digital access: Tobago launched Tobago ID, an online platform for public services, with 1,000+ sign-ups within hours.

Hilton Rescue Deal: Trinidad and Tobago has finalised a new ownership and management arrangement for the Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, with state-owned eTeCK taking over shares and renaming the asset manager as HotelTT Asset Management, while Hilton continues to operate the hotel—averting a shutdown risk ahead of the Sept. 18 lease expiry and giving workers job continuity assurances. School Term Logistics: Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath says all schools will open Monday, even as repairs continue, while parents get a two-week grace period to collect delayed school supplies and book grants without penalties. Drug Trafficking Crackdown: Police seized 416.5kg of cocaine worth about US$27m hidden in backhoe tyres in Longdenville, arresting a British Virgin Islands businessman and detaining two St Lucians. Tobago Digital Services: Tobago launched a Tobago ID online platform to access THA public services, with rapid sign-ups and plans to improve efficiency and transparency. T&T–Venezuela Reset: Business groups and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce welcome renewed direct dialogue, urging a shift from diplomacy to implementation—especially energy cooperation—while Caribbean Airlines prepares to resume Venezuela flights.

Drug Enforcement: Police seized 416.5kg of cocaine hidden inside four backhoe tyres at a Longdenville warehouse, arresting a 42-year-old businessman from the British Virgin Islands and detaining two St Lucians; the haul is valued at about US$27m/TT$193.5m, with investigations continuing. Tobago Digital Services: The THA launched Tobago ID, an online platform for public services, with over 1,000 sign-ups within hours and features that let residents track application status—aimed at faster, more transparent processing. Energy & Diplomacy: Opposition leader Penelope Beckles questioned what T&T gained from Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers’ Venezuela trip, while the T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce welcomed renewed dialogue but urged a shift to implementation of energy cooperation projects. Aviation & Trade Links: Caribbean Airlines says it plans to resume commercial flights to Caracas after a year-long suspension, citing operational planning and safety risk assessment. Hospitality & Jobs: Hilton Trinidad workers got a six-month reprieve as the State moved to a new ownership and management structure, keeping Hilton as operator while e TecK/HotelTT holds ownership. Local Business Pulse: CAL reported strong domestic airbridge demand, carrying 75,149 passengers between T&T in August.

Hotel Restructuring: The Government has finalised a new ownership and management setup for the Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, with e Teck (State-owned) taking ownership via HotelTT Asset Management while Hilton stays on to manage operations and guest services, ending the prior lease arrangement and reopening reservation channels. TTSEC Digital Push: The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission launched a new data hub to make financial and market statistics easier to access on its website, moving beyond static spreadsheets and semi-annual publications. Major Drug Seizure: Police seized about 416.5kg of cocaine worth an estimated TT$193.5m after finding 420 packages concealed inside four backhoe tyres during a Longdenville operation; a BVI businessman and two Saint Lucians were arrested. Education Tensions: TTUTA says the Ministry of Education’s plan to replace business operations assistants (BOAs) with on-the-job trainees (OJTs) will overload principals and risks inadequate preparation and confidentiality. T&T–Venezuela Reset: Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Sean Sobers’ talks in Caracas produced a roadmap for a “new era” in relations covering trade, energy, agriculture, environmental protection, culture and collective security. Cultural Spotlight: Caribbean Music Awards announced the first wave of performers for its Sept. 19 NAPA event, including V’ghn, Freetown Collective, Jah Mason and others. Tobago Baby Grant: The THA will pay more than $600,000 in retroactive backpay under its $500 baby grant, delivered via the Tobago ID platform and bank transfers.

T&T–Venezuela Reset: Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Sean Sobers’ Caracas talks produced a roadmap for a “new chapter” in relations, with cooperation targets spanning trade, energy, agriculture, culture and collective security. Energy Context: Energy experts say the engagement could help ease tensions that previously disrupted energy cooperation, with hopes of reviving suspended frameworks. Security Crackdown: TTPS seized 416.5kg of cocaine worth about TT$193.5m hidden in backhoe tyres in Longdenville, detaining a 42-year-old BVI businessman and two Saint Lucians. Tobago Baby Grant: The THA will pay over $600,000 in retroactive backpay under the $500 baby grant, with applications via the new Tobago ID and payments into bank accounts. Education Readiness: TTUTA visited schools ahead of the new term, criticising late repairs, non-renewal of support staff contracts, and reliance on OJTs for BOA vacancies. Markets Data: TTSEC launched an online Data Hub to make securities and financial market statistics easier to access. Airbridge Demand: Caribbean Airlines reported 75,149 passengers on the domestic airbridge in August, citing phased capacity boosts for peak travel. Sports & Community: Flow will donate TT$200 per TKR six to the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities under its “Every Six Gives Back” campaign.

Diplomacy & Trade: Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Sean Sobers has arrived in Venezuela for one-day high-level talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, regional security and economic cooperation, following months of strained relations. Markets & Regulation: TTSEC launched an online Data Hub to make financial and securities market statistics easier to access, replacing reliance on spreadsheets and its semi-annual bulletin. Banking Leadership: First Citizens appointed Sana Ragbir as acting Group CEO after Jason Julien’s resignation. Airbridge Demand: Caribbean Airlines reported strong domestic travel, carrying 75,149 passengers between Trinidad and Tobago in August, up from 66,814 in July. Labour & Costs: FOIA disclosures show 234 workers lost jobs due to corporate retrenchment between January and July 2026, with the biggest cut at Teleperformance T&T. Energy Outlook: Ammonia output rose 9.7% in Q1 2026, helped by higher production at several plants even as Nutrien’s Point Lisas shutdown weighed on totals. Business & Growth: Local entrepreneurs say brand-building and marketing remain weak for many SMEs, even as interest in starting businesses grows.

State of Emergency: Opposition MP Keith Scotland says the PNM will not back any further extension of the SoE beyond Sept. 17, arguing civil liberties are worsening and nothing has changed. Prison contraband: A woman identified as Shuzelle Kirton was issued a PDO after allegedly smuggling drugs into prison hidden in apples, with authorities linking her to a trafficking gang. Digital payments procurement: PNM chairman Marvin Gonzales is demanding answers over a reported $4.4B, 10-year WiPay contract tied to the National Payment and Innovation Company, raising questions about process and state agency arrangements. Tobago birthrate push: THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine announced a $500 monthly baby grant for Tobago residents, with applications handled via the new Tobago ID portal. Airbridge demand: Caribbean Airlines reported carrying 75,149 passengers between Trinidad and Tobago in August, up from 66,814 in July, citing phased capacity increases. Corporate leadership: Dominic Rampersad appointed chairman of Guardian Holdings Limited, effective Oct. 1, succeeding Robert Almeida. Regional business/transport: LIAT Air is weighing Tobago–Barbados opportunities cautiously after Caribbean Airlines ended direct service, to avoid head-to-head capacity pressure. Security and infrastructure: Police in Guyana are investigating the theft of 90 feet of copper cable from the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, affecting Independence flag lighting.

CPL Spotlight: Trinbago Knight Riders host Antigua & Barbuda Falcons tonight at Queen’s Park Oval (7:00pm AST) in a must-win push for TKR’s playoff hopes, with both sides bringing star power including Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran and Kieron Pollard. Local Governance & Youth Safety: La Trinidad (Benguet) ordered a billiard hall closure and revoked its permit after minors were found on-site during class hours, citing juvenile welfare rules and a “no tambay” policy. Banking Leadership: First Citizens reshuffled top management, naming Sana Ragbir acting Group CEO after Jason Julien’s resignation, with additional acting deputy roles. Food & FX Pressure: KFC Trinidad and Tobago raised prices on nine menu items by 2–5%, citing higher poultry supply costs and the expense of accessing foreign exchange. Mortgage Stress Signals: Scotiabank flagged slightly higher mortgage impairments in the Caribbean in its latest results, even as overall earnings hit records. Tobago Demographics: Tobago launched a $500 monthly baby grant under its Universal Child Benefit Programme as birthrates fall, with applications opening and support running until age five. Security & Business Costs: Downtown Port-of-Spain merchants say copper and A/C equipment thefts have topped $2M in eight weeks, urging stronger police action to protect operations. Environment & Jobs: ReLeaf TT pilot aims to restore 102 hectares with 236,000+ trees, using digital mapping to track restoration and create forestry employment. Regional Airlift: Caribbean Airlines ended the direct Tobago–Barbados passenger/cargo service, leaving passengers to connect via remaining routes.

Banking Leadership: First Citizens has named Sana Ragbir acting Group CEO after Jason Julien’s resignation, with two senior managers moving into acting deputy CEO roles. Energy & Industry: A Point Lisas steel-and-vanadium restart is being discussed, with the bigger play framed as building a local metals, recycling and manufacturing ecosystem around imported mineral feedstock. Trade & Investment: The T&T Chamber’s Canada mission is positioned as a market-entry strategy, pushing firms to arrive with market intelligence and clear value propositions for Canadian buyers. Retail & Consumer Costs: KFC Trinidad and Tobago raised prices on nine menu items (up to $4 on some meals), citing higher poultry supply costs and foreign exchange access pressures. Local Government & Social Support: Tobago launched a $500 monthly baby grant amid a 50%+ birthrate decline, alongside a new Tobago ID digital platform to track THA services. Security & Business Impact: DO-MA says downtown Port-of-Spain businesses have lost over $2m in stolen A/C and electrical copper equipment in eight weeks, calling for stronger police action. Environment & Jobs: ReLeaf TT pilot aims to restore 102 hectares with 236,000+ trees, using digital tracking and creating Forestry Division employment. Regional Airlift: Caribbean Airlines ends direct Tobago–Barbados passenger/cargo service, leaving carriers cautious about filling the gap. Sports Business Pulse: TKR retired Dwayne Bravo’s No. 47 jersey, while CPL playoff pressure continues at Queen’s Park Oval.

Tobago Digital Push: The Tobago House of Assembly launched Tobago ID, a digital platform to let residents track THA services online, with Chief Secretary Farley Augustine urging registration and linking the rollout to faster, more accountable service delivery. Independence Day Politics: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar issued two Independence messages—one urging the nation to stop blaming colonial history, and another aimed at UNC supporters that critics say escalates partisan rhetoric. Credit Outlook for T&T: The Finance Ministry says Moody’s sees stronger fiscal buffers and improving external conditions, citing the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund (about 25% of GDP) and Treasury cash (about 7%), with a gas-sector recovery expected by end-2027. Local Governance & Autonomy: Tobago’s Chief Secretary told Trinidadians not to fear Tobago’s push for greater autonomy, arguing economic independence is key and that empowering one part strengthens the whole. Business Deal in Focus: Agostini’s takeover of Prestige Holdings is nearing completion, with minority shareholder advocate Permell raising concerns and noting Agostini has reached about 96.8% of shares. Regional Security & Policing: At a TTPS Independence toast, the PM backed Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, pointing to a reported drop in serious crime and promising more legislation and police posts. Caribbean Business Expansion: Jamaican firm Eppley acquired NorthWest Premium Financing, expanding its Caribbean footprint in premium financing and specialised loans.