Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry received a Courtesy Call on May 24, 2023 from Her Excellency Sonya Koppe, High Commissioner of Australia to Trinidad and Tobago. During the meeting, discussions focused on improving trade, investment and cooperation between both countries to build upon long standing relations.
High Commissioner Koppe expressed Australia’s interest in diversifying its trading markets noting that Trinidad and Tobago was an important Caribbean trade and investment partner in that regard. Acknowledging the excellent diplomatic relations between both countries, High Commissioner Koppe noted the presence of several Australian companies operating in Trinidad and Tobago in the energy, maritime and information, communication and technology (ICT) sectors, as well as approximately 1,600 Trinidad and Tobago nationals residing in Australia, the largest of the Caribbean diaspora.
It was noted that despite the absence of a formal bilateral trade agreement, both countries enjoyed a healthy trading relationship valued at approximately TT$200 Million annually. Trinidad and Tobago’s main exports to Australia include anhydrous ammonia, aromatic bitters and rum. Among the main products imported from Australia include meat products, wines, cheese and transport sea vessels including two of Trinidad and Tobago’s fast ferry vessels.
In their discussions Minister Gopee-Scoon underscored the potential for trade in high quality chocolates and spices from Trinidad and Tobago, as well as other opportunities in the services sector. High Commissioner Koppe expressed a desire to work together to expand collaboration in the Education Sector including at the tertiary and vocational levels. It was also acknowledged that Australia’s expertise in the Maritime sector and Trinidad and Tobago’s ideal location below the Hurricane Belt also presented opportunities for further collaboration in the sector.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both the Minister and High Commissioner agreed to continue the dialogue to identify and pursue other commercial opportunities between Trinidad and Tobago and Australia.
