Mr. Speaker, as we come to this House to amend the Appropriation Act 2026, we do so with a clear understanding that when resources are limited, every dollar must be used carefully and every dollar must serve the people.

We understand that responsible government is not only about careful budgeting; it is also about responsive and effective stewardship.

Throughout the fiscal year, circumstances evolve, priorities emerge, and the pace of implementation can create legitimate requirements for adjustments to previously approved allocations.

“Today, international rating agency Moody’s has raised Trinidad and Tobago’s rating outlook from “Negative” to “Stable”, while affirming the country’s Ba2 rating. This development follows closely on the IMF’s Article IV consultation and signals increasing international confidence in the policy direction pursued by the Government since taking office one year ago. Two of the world’s most respected international institutions have now independently reached similar conclusions, sending a clear message: the Government’s strategy is producing results, and Trinidad and Tobago is regaining economic momentum.

The rating agency highlighted the country’s improved external prospects and, notably, the proactive debt management strategy undertaken by the Government, including the international bond issuance in January that enabled a partial redemption of the US$1 billion August 2026 bond which significantly improved the country’s debt maturity profile. This is the direct result of deliberate, disciplined choices made by the new administration to strengthen the country’s financial footing and reduce external vulnerabilities.”

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The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago recently met with the Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT). The discussions focused on current market conditions, the state of the economy, and fostering continued collaboration between the Government, the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) and the banking sector.

The meeting was convened by the Honourable Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Finance. In addition to the Minister of Finance, in attendance were:  Senator Dr. the Honourable Kennedy Swaratsingh, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development and Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Larry Howai, Governor of the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT), Mrs. Suzette Taylor-Lee Chee, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Technical staff from the Ministry of Finance, Executive of the Bankers Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT) and Senior banking officials

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is proud to highlight the significant milestones and benefits derived from its enduring partnership with CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.
This relationship, rooted in visionary leadership and a commitment to sustainable development, has reached new heights, positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a central pillar of CAF’s regional strategy.” These sentiments were echoed by the outgoing Chairman of the Board of Directors of CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, The Honourable Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Finance in delivering the feature address at the Bank’s CLXXXVIII Board of Directors Meeting which took place on March 3^rd 2026 in Lima, Peru.

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The Ministry of Finance (MOF), Inland Revenue Division (IRD), wishes to inform all Liquor Licence Holders of significant changes to the filing process for Amusement Gaming Tax Returns.

Effective April 1st, 2026, the IRD will be transitioning to a fully digital filing system for Amusement Gaming Tax.

To download the form, scan the QR code below or visit the Inland Revenue Division’s website at https://www.ird.gov.tt/news/public-advisory-landlord-business-surcharge-registration