The two-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago has enjoyed seven straight years of real GDP growth as a result of economic reforms, supplemented by tight monetary policy and fiscal responsibility, and high oil prices. Over the last five years growth in GDP averaged 3.7 percent annually, with a 3.49 percent growth rate in 2001. Despite minor slowdowns in the economy, the Central Bank estimates a similar growth rate for 2002.

The island of Trinidad, the larger of the two, has an area of 4,828 square kilometres (1,864 square miles) and is situated at 10.5 degrees north of the equator. Tobago is 300 square kilometres (116 square miles) in area and is situated just 32 kilometres (20 miles) off the north-east coast of Trinidad, 11 degrees north of the equator.

The capital of Trinidad and Tobago and the main center of government is Port of Spain, which is situated in the north-west of the island of Trinidad. San Fernando, the second largest city in the country, also situated in Trinidad, is considered "the industrial capital" of the country. The principal administrative center of Tobago is Scarborough. This is situated in the south of the island.

The investment climate in this country is very good. Political change has traditionally been smooth and democratic. Since 1992 almost all investment barriers have been eliminated. The government has aggressively and successfully courted foreign investors, with United States companies taking the lead.

If you are a Trinidanian company wishing to import from the U.S., click here.

For aditional information on export opportunities for U.S. companies, please contact Hannah Bereaux at hannah.bereaux@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov or go to Services for US exporters to view the services we can offer you to help you enter the Trinidanian market.