Guatemala, TT share notes on agriculture and the economy

Prime Minister Kamla Persad–Bissessar Prime Minister received a trade delegation from Guatemala earlier this week led by the Guatemalan Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago Guisela Atalida Godinez Sazo. 

The diplomat was was accompanied by the Minister of the Economy of the Government of Guatemala, Luis Velasquez Qurio and a trade contingent made up of High level government officials. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar was supported by Stephen Cadiz, Minister of Trade and Industry.

The parties engaged in cordial conversation surrounding the potential for future trade, greater cooperation and partnerships between Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala along with knowledge sharing and innovation.

Velasquez Qurio, praised Trinidad and Tobago as the economic hub of the Caribbean, noting that it had excellent potential for future trade and investment opportunities given the cost of production, the labour market and access to the CARICOM market.

The Prime Minister was particularly interested in a a proposal to examine the feasibility of establishing a Palm oil refinery in Trinidad and Tobago. 

Guatemala has diversified its economy and reduced dependence on food imports from 70% to 38%. 

Discussions have taken place with Minister of Agriculture, Land and Food Production Vasant Bharath with a view to hosting a forum of CARICOM Agriculture Ministers in the new year in Port of Spain to share best practices in this area.

The Prime Minister wished the delegation well as they engage with various stakeholders around Trinidad and Tobago during their stay on the island.