Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry has called on the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) to remain adaptive, forward-thinking and committed to excellence as the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary. During the Feature Address at the TTBS’ 50th Anniversary celebrations on July 8, 2024, Minister Gopee-Scoon reflected on the Bureau’s transformation over the last five decades, she said, “Today it is fitting that we reflect on the transformation that this institution has undergone since its inception, continually adapting to the ever changing global landscape to fulfil the needs of all citizens, both consumers and businesses.”
Established under the Standards Act No. 38 of 1972, and officially opening its doors in 1974, the TTBS has grown to become a cornerstone institution with a dedicated team of over 200 professionals. Its expanded scope now encompasses a comprehensive range of services including inspection, testing, certification, calibration, accreditation, and metrology across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, food and beverage, construction, energy, and IT.
Minister Gopee-Scoon highlighted several of the TTBS’s accomplishments over the last fifty (50) years in the areas of standards and implementation; metrology; international collaboration and recognition; and technological advancements. As standards continue to play an integral role in both trade and business competitiveness across many sectors which aid in the formulation of guidelines for materials, products, processes and services, Minister noted that since its inception, the TTBS has issued approximately 700 Standards, with over 350 still relevant and utilized today.
The TTBS was commended for its ongoing efforts to embrace digital transformation and enhance service delivery through the digitzation of standards via an e-store. Additionally, through the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s TTBizLink System, the TTBS not only digitized the endorsement of import declarations but also enabled the processing of mobile inspections and e-payments making it easier for all stakeholders especially businesses.
Minister Gopee-Scoon acknowledged the efforts by the TTBS to make sustainability and innovation the forefront of its agenda with the launch of the first Regional Centre of Excellence for the testing of Energy Efficiency of lighting product which she indicated is a testimony of the Government’s dedication to further reducing the country’s carbon footprint, through the use of greater energy efficient technology.
As the TTBS continues to move forward, Minister Gopee-Scoon challenged the Bureau to embrace the opportunities and remain proactive as there is much to be done as it relates to expanding into new and relevant services and sectors; digitalization; fostering greater collaboration with international partners; driving sustainability initiatives that will shape a better future for generations to come; and increasing awareness and promoting a quality culture consciousness.
Minister Gopee-Scoon emphasized the Government’s vision for the TTBS to be a world class organization that leads with cutting-edge services and nurtures a culture of quality consciousness amongst our population, fostering innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development in Trinidad and Tobago.
