Trusted. Transformational. Together.

Message from the Managing Partner, Rikhi Rampersad

The clock ticks and time passes. While this is a constant truth, the effects of time are experienced differently by economic actors, shaped by geography, business model, size and stakeholder alliances. The year 2026 ushered in heightened change—often at a rapid and unfamiliar pace—keeping businesses and economies globally on their toes.

New leaders emerged across Europe, while business models shifted throughout Asia and the Americas. Yet every market remained connected by rising energy costs, volatile food prices and persistent inflationary pressure. Research from Deloitte’s Global Chief Economist indicates that elevated energy prices may continue for some time because of ongoing geopolitical events. Monetary policy has also tightened across Europe and the Eurozone, with interest rates rising in many countries, while Caribbean growth for 2026–2027 is projected at between 2% and 3%.

How should companies respond, particularly as these global developments are mirrored in Trinidad and Tobago?  The 2027 National Budget presented on October 12, 2026 expressed themes spanning tax reform, energy sector revitalization, diversification, education, youth skills, people and infrastructure development and digital transformation.

In seeking opportunities, companies should closely monitor the possible resurgence in the energy sector through cross-border and deep-water exploration, alongside expanded oil production in 2027–2028. Beyond energy, businesses must elevate and evolve pursuing expanded trade routes into Guyana, Latin America and CARICOM; investing in diversified local sectors and subsectors; and innovating services and products to strengthen resilience, deepen domestic investment and boost foreign investor confidence.

Expansion and reinvestment can be supported through grants, special financing and incentives. With a buoyant financial sector, businesses that develop multi-year growth plans supported by strong risk mitigation measures can thrive. Technology adoption, workforce reform and upskilling for a more advanced digital age can help companies strengthen their institutions and operate more effectively and profitably.

Manufacturing remains one of Trinidad and Tobago’s greatest assets. As manufacturing activity increases in European and Asian markets, driven in part by demand for technology and equipment, local businesses should consider how traditional models can be reformed to capture new opportunities. The way ahead is to pursue markets, trade routes, investment and expansion where stability and steady growth are evident in the near to medium term.

The global energy crisis demonstrated the resilience of businesses and countries as alliances shifted and supply chains evolved in new and unexpected ways. Trinidad and Tobago businesses can draw from these practices and reshape their financial, operational and technology models across the service, manufacturing and energy sectors. By expanding locally, strengthening resilience, growing export trade and increasing foreign exchange earnings—while investing in our people—we can create new realities and build lasting prosperity for future generations.