September 22, 2018:- The Ministry of Trade and Industry’s Policy and Strategy Division hosted its inaugural research seminar on Friday 21st, September, 2018 at its Port of Spain offices. Delivering opening remarks at the event, Mr. Norris Herbert, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) highlighted the inherent linkages between research and both policy and strategy development. The event he indicated would strengthen the research capacity of the Ministry’s Technical Officers who drive the strategic agenda of the Ministry. Technical rigor among staff he indicated was of utmost importance. He urged the Ministry’s Technical Officers to be an integral part of this process of development.
The seminar included panel discussions focused on trade performance, the manufacturing sector, the services sector and growth and development. Chairpersons included Dr. Reshma Mahabir, Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Mahindra Ramesh Ramdeen, Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association, Ms. Edwina Leacock, former Permanent Secretary/Chief Technical Officer, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Dr. Ronald Ramkissoon, Chairman, Trinidad and Tobago Fair Trading Commission. Research in each thematic area was conducted by staff of Ministry and findings presented followed by panel discussions. The Ministry intends to host similar seminars in the future to continue building the research capability of its personnel.
