Ms. Reita Toussaint, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism will lead a Trinidad and Tobago delegation to participate in the Sixtieth Meeting of the CARICOM Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) during the period 10-11 June 2025, via videoconference.
The COTED is the organ of CARICOM responsible for promoting trade and economic development of the region and overseeing the operations of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The COTED meets twice annually in regular sessions and comprise Ministers of CARICOM Member States with responsibility for trade. Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in this meeting is critical to ensuring national interests are incorporated in regional plans, policies and initiatives.
The Sixtieth COTED will consider, among other things, proposals by Trinidad and Tobago for suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on Almond Milk and Lithium-Ion Batteries. The suspension of the CET on Almond Milk is intended to maintain support for growth and development of the local manufacturing sector. The suspension of the CET on Lithium-Ion Batteries is intended to ensure affordability and availability of the product given its importance in renewable energy systems.
CARICOM Member States will also deliberate on a number of matters pertaining to the promotion of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) including the Free Movement of CARICOM Nationals as mandated by CARICOM Heads of Government and issues pertaining to compliance with national obligations.
Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation will comprise senior officials of the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs and key Ministries and agencies with direct responsibility for issues being discussed at the Meeting.
