WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
24 September 2019  
(19-6145) Page: 1/76 
Trade Policy Review Body  
22 and 24 May 2019  Original: English/anglais/inglés  
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO  
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Addendum  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Manuel A. J. Teehankee (Philippines)  
This document contains the advance written questions  and additional questions by WTO 
Members , and replies provided by  Trinidad and Tobago .1 
 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
22 et 24 mai 2019  
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUE S COMMERCIALES  
TRINITÉ -ET-TOBAGO  
COMPTE RENDU DE LA R ÉUNION  
Addendum  
Président : S.E.  M. Manuel A. J. Teehankee (Philippines)  
Le présent document contient les questions écrites communiquées à l'avance par les 
Membres de l'OMC, leurs questions additionnelles, et les réponses  fournies par  Trinité -et-Tobago .1 
 
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
22 y 24 de mayo de 2019  
EXAMEN DE LAS POLÍTI CAS COMERCIALES  
TRINIDAD Y TABAGO  
ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN  
Addendum  
Presidente: Excmo.  Sr. Manuel A. J. Teehankee (Filipinas)  
En el presente documento figuran las preguntas presentad as anticipadamente por escrito  y 
las preguntas adicionales de los Miembros de la OMC,  así como las respues tas facilitadas por  Trinidad 
y Tabago .1 
  
                                                
1 In English only./En anglais seulement./En inglés solamente.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 15, Paragraph 1.5:  
1. Considering the 
precipitous drop in 
foreign exchange 
reserves in recent 
years, from ~$11.5 
billion to ~$7.5 
billion, what is an 
“adequate level” of 
foreign exchange 
reserves the Central 
Bank seeks to 
maintain?  Trinidad and Tobago’s level of gross official reserves remains 
adequate based on t he reserve adequacy measures used by the 
International Monetary Fund (IMF) - import cover, reserves to 
short-term debt, and reserves to broad money. Import cover is the 
most common measure used; with coverage of three months of 
prospective imports serving as an appropriate benchmark. As at 
March 2019, Trinidad and Tobago’s gross official reserves was 
US$7,350.5 million indicating import coverage of 8.3 months. This 
measure of reserve adequacy indicates that the domestic economy 
possesses adequate financial buffers to withstand external shocks.  
 
In terms of the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, two of the 
main objectives of the monetary policy framework include the 
maintenance of: an orderly foreign exchange market and an 
adequate level of foreign exchange  reserves.  
Page 16, Paragraph 1.6:  
2. In relation to the 
previous question, 
does the 
government have a 
plan to arrest the 
decline in foreign 
exchange reserves 
and capital flight by 
removing the TT 
dollar peg?  The management of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic framework is 
anchored on a stable exchange rate. Furthermore, management of 
the exchange rate will continue to be guided by movement in 
demand and supply and the availability of foreign exchange.  
Page 27 -28, Paragraph 2.11: The Secretariat states that Trinidad and Tobago “has submitted 
notifications under various WTO agreements,” but that “certain notifications are not up -to-date or 
are outstanding,” including subsidies. The United States notes that Trinidad and Tobago has not 
submitted a notification to the Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures pursuant to 
Article 25.1 of the SCM Agreement. However, according to the Secretariat’s report, Trinidad and 
Tobago appears to maintain export subsidies which would meet the no tification requirements set 
forth in Article 25 of the SCM Agreement.  
3. In light of Trinidad 
and Tobago’s 
obligations under 
the SCM Agreement, 
we respectfully 
request that 
Trinidad and Tobago 
provide the details 
of all its specific 
subsidy programs, 
including subsidies 
contingent on 
export performance 
or the use of 
domestic over 
imported goods, by 
submitting the 
relevant notification 
pursuant to its 
obligations under 
Article XVI:1 of the 
GATT 1994, and The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (GORTT) 
does not utilise export subsidies on agricultural products nor 
subsidies that favour the use of domestic agriculture products over 
imports.  
 
Trinidad and Tobago endeavours to submit any outstanding 
notifications under the SCM Agreement in the shortest possible 
period.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Article 25 of the 
SCM Agreement.  
Page 33, Paragraph 2.22:  
4. If CBTPA were to 
expire, or were 
Trinidad and Tobago 
to be removed as a 
CBTPA beneficiary 
country, what 
would be the impact 
to trade with the 
United States and to 
the Trinidad and 
Tobago economy?  Trinidad and Tobago’s relationship with the USA is a vital part of 
Trinidad and Tobago’s overall trade and economic priorities. From 
2012 to 2018, an average of 37.5% of Trinidad and Tobago’s 
exports has gone to the USA while an average of 26.4% of Trinidad 
and Tobago’s imports was sourced from the USA. This is an 
indication that the USA has traditionally been one of the main 
sources and destinations of Trinidad and Tobago’s imports and 
exports.  
Through the CBT PA preferences, several of Trinidad and Tobago's 
main export commodities such as Anhydrous Ammonia, Liquefied 
Natural Gas (LNG), Other Crude Petroleum, Methanol and Urea 
have preferential market access to the US.  
In the absence of CBTPA preferences, Trinid ad and Tobago will face 
duties on exports to the USA market which will result in additional 
costs faced by local companies and lead to significant reduction in 
exports, foreign exchange earnings and significant job losses in the 
domestic economy.  
Page 35, Paragraph 2.29:  
Trinidad and Tobago has fallen from 79th in ease of doing business rankings in 2015 to a 2019 
ranking of 105th.  
5. Does the 
government have a 
plan to reverse this 
decline?  In April 2017, the Cabinet agreed to an Implementation Plan which 
details measures/reforms geared towards improving Trinidad and 
Tobago’s Doing Business ranking. The indicators that are covered 
in the national Implementation Plan include:   
• Resolving Ins olvency  
• Paying Taxes  
• Starting a Business  
• Trading Across Borders  
• Dealing with Construction Permits  
• Registering Property  
• Getting Credit  
Some of these reforms are detailed at paragraphs 2.27 and 2.32 of 
the Secretariat’s Report.  
Page 42, Paragra ph 3.18: The Secretariat’s report indicates that Trinidad and Tobago’s applied MFN 
rate exceeded the bound rate on 59 lines in 2018, up from 50 in 2011.  
6. Does Trinidad and 
Tobago plan on 
aligning these tariff 
lines with its WTO 
bound rates? If not, 
does Trinidad and 
Tobago plan on 
seeking to modify 
its schedule under 
Article XXVIII of 
the GATT 1994?  
Please explain how 
the issue of 
bindings might be Trinidad and Tobago is addressing this concern at the regional 
level. As Trinidad and Tobago seeks to fulfil its obligations at the 
multilateral level, it is engaged in dialogue with its CARICOM 
partners to minimise any adverse impact on the Regional 
arrangement from its actions. It is expected that this matter will be 
rectified in the short term.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
address ed in the 
context of CET 
Review, including 
any applicable 
timeframe.  
Page 46, Paragraph 3.22: The Secretariat’s report indicates that while import surcharges imposed 
in 1990 were supposed to be temporary, Trinidad and Tobago has applied new import surcharges 
since.  
7. Please explain when 
the system of 
import surcharges 
under the 
Miscellaneous Taxes 
Act will be 
abolished, and in 
particular, when the 
import surcharges 
on nine poultry 
tariff lines from 
March 2013 will be 
abolished.  No specific time has been determined at this time. This measure is 
under review and a decision will be made at the earliest appropriate 
time.  
8. What w as the 
reason for applying 
and maintaining 
these surcharges?  Import surcharges are considered as other duties and charges and 
are occasionally applied and/or removed. The surcharge is applied 
to all trading partners and the rate is far below the pre-2007 level 
of forty percent (40%)  
 
Trinidad and Tobago’s imposition of import surcharges is done in 
accordance with our commitments as per Article II (1) (b) of the 
GATT in accordance with strategic national development priorities. 
Government’s economi c diversification policy as it relates to the 
Non-Energy Sector, has placed priority on improving national food 
security, rural development and employment.  
Page 48, Paragraph 3.32:  
The Online Purchase Tax applies to goods imported into Trinidad and Tobago by air, and appears to 
disproportionately affect U.S. companies.  
9. Would Trinidad and 
Tobago be willing to 
reconsider this tax 
and join the 
multilateral effort, 
led by the OECD, to 
come to global 
consensus on the 
allocation of taxing 
rights in a 
digitalized global 
economy?  This tax is not intended to disproportionally affect the companies 
of any specific member state of the WTO. The GORTT is open to 
multilateral dialogue on this m atter.  
Page 48, Paragraph 3.31:  
The report states that Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Finance may impose tariff quotas 
temporarily.  
10. Under what 
circumstances does 
Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad and Tobago does not in practice impose any tariff quotas 
and has no plans to do so.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
establish temporary 
tariff quotas?  
11. Are there maximum 
or minimum time 
frames for a 
temporary tariff 
quota? How long 
does a temporary 
tariff quota 
normally last?  Trinidad and Tobago does not in practice impose any tariff  quotas 
and has no plans to do so.  
3.1.4 Import prohibitions, restrictions and licensing - Page 51, Paragraph 3.40  
The report states that non -automatic licensing is used to administer import restrictions.  
12. Do non -automatic 
licensing 
procedures restrict 
imports beyond the 
restrictions they 
administer? If so, 
please identify the 
relevant procedures 
and the products to 
which they apply.  No, such licenses do not restrict imports beyond the restrictions 
they administer.  
Page 54, Paragraph 3.54: The Secretariat’s report states that “exporters are also eligible for a 
rebate, amounting to 1.5% of the value of exp ort sales, which is valid for the reduction of duty 
payable on future imports.” In the 2012 Trade Policy Review for Trinidad and Tobago, the response 
to questions on this program explained that it is no longer in effect; however, this year’s report 
indicat es that incentives under this program are still available. This program does not appear to 
have been notified pursuant to Article 25 of the Subsidies Agreement.  
13. Please explain why 
this program does 
not qualify as 
notifiable under the 
SCM Agreement.  
Further, please 
explain this 
program in light of 
Trinidad and 
Tobago’s 
obligations under 
Article 3 of the SCM 
Agreement.  This measure is no longer in effect.  
Page 55, Paragraph 3.56 -3.57: 3.2.4.2 Free -trade zones (FTZs)  
14. Were Free Trade 
Zone or Special 
Economic Zone 
designations 
discussed with 
Chinese investors in 
connection with the 
Phoenix Park 
Industrial Estate or 
the La Brea Dry 
Dock (Paragraph 
4.139) projects to 
be built, The consideration of FTZ and SEZ were not discussed with Chinese 
investors in relation to either the Phoenix Park Industrial Estate or 
the La Brea Dry Dock Facility.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
respectively, by 
Beijing Construction 
Engineer ing Group 
and China Harbor 
Engineering 
Company?  
15. Will these projects, 
once constructed, 
be given FTZ or SEZ 
designations, or 
benefit from other 
incentives (Page 59, 
Paragraph 3.67)?  The designation of the projects as FTZ or SEZ designation may in 
the future be considered by the GORTT subject to the laws of 
Trinidad and Tob ago. 
3.3.3 Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  
Page 65, Paragraph 3.87: USDA/FAS were informed through non -WTO channels that Trinidad & 
Tobago intends to implement certain aspects of the CARICOM regional poultry import standards.  
16. Will Trinidad and 
Tobago notify the 
measure to the WTO 
before 
implementation?  The GORTT shall notify the WTO prior to implementing the 
CARICOM Standard for Poultry and Poultry Products. At present, 
the standard has not been implemented, however the GORTT, 
through the office  of the Chief Veterinary Officer, is engaged in 
dialogue with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).  
Page 65 -6, Paragraph 3.96  
Cabinet adopted the CARICOM Regional Standard for Poultry and Poultry products in August 2018. 
The Standard, which has not been adopted by any other member of CARICOM, imposes, among 
other things, an expiration date of six months from slaughter on the sale of poultry. Although the 
ministers of trade and agriculture routinely criticize frozen poultry imp orts from the United States, 
they say the adoption of the Standard is a matter of consumer health and safety.  
17. How did Trinidad 
and Tobago 
determine that a 
six-month 
expiration date 
standard would 
protect consumer 
health and safety?  The CARICOM Poultry  & Poultry Products Standard CRS 28:2012 
was developed under the authority of the CARICOM Regional 
Organization for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) and approved as 
a CARICOM Regional Standard by the CARICOM Council for Trade 
and Economic Development (COTED) in December 2012.  
The Standard was developed in an attempt to harmonize and 
advance the levels of quality and food safety for poultry and poultry 
products sold in the local and intra -regional markets. It provides 
guidance to poultry producers, processors a nd end users of the 
product on the requirements of the commodity in the areas of: 
grading, the dressing operation, packaging, labelling, marketing, 
ante-mortem and post -mortem inspection of poultry products sold 
through commercial distribution systems.  
This Standard applies to all poultry sold in Trinidad and Tobago, 
that is, locally produced and imported. In Trinidad and Tobago, an 
estimated ninety percent (90%) of all locally produced chicken is 
sold/consumed within seven (7) days of slaughter, with the 
remaining ten percent (10%) is usually consumed within thirty (30) 
days.  
The timeframe recommended in this standard was as a result of 
regional consultations. Based on representation from Members, 
Trinidad and Tobago is reviewing this element of the standar d (i.e. 
the timeframe).  
18. Despite the 
adoption of the The GORTT shall notify the WTO of its adoption of the CARICOM 
Regional Standard CRS 28: 2012 Poultry and Poultry Products – WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Standard in August 
2018, the report 
notes that “Trinidad 
and Tobago has not 
made any 
notifications to the 
WTO under the SPS 
Agreement.” Does 
the government 
plan to do so?  Specification, in accordance with our obligations under the WTO 
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement.  
3.3.5 State Trading, State -Owned Enterprises, and Privatization  
Page 70, Paragraph 3.120: The Secretariat’s Report states that Trinidad and Tobago’s most recent 
notification under Article XVII was in 2010.  
19. Please indicate 
when Trinidad and 
Tobago will update 
this notification to 
include the period 
2010 -18. Trinidad and Tobago endeavo urs to update its notification in the 
shortest timeframe possible.  
20. Please explain why 
Petrotrin or its 
successor Paria Fuel 
– both of which 
have a special or 
exclusive right 
regard ing the 
imports of fuel – 
has not been 
notified as a state 
trading enterprise 
to the Working 
Party on State 
Trading Enterprises 
(WPSTE).  The GORTT does not consider either Petrotrin or its successor Paria 
Fuel Company to be a State Trading Enterprise withi n the context 
of Article XVII of the GATT.  
21. More specifically, 
please explain why 
these entities would 
not meet the 
definition of state 
trading enterprise 
in the 
Understanding on 
the Interpretation 
of Article XVII of 
the GATT 1994.  The Paria Fuel Compa ny does not have exclusive rights in its 
purchases or sales involving imports of petroleum.  
22. If this omission was 
done in error, 
please indicate 
when Trinidad and 
Tobago will notify 
these entities to the 
WPSTE.  Not applicable. See response to Question 21.  
Page 70, Paragraph 3.122: Through SOEs, the State maintains significant command throughout the 
economy, yet has failed in its efforts to diversify beyond the petrochemical sector. The Economic WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Development Advisory Board recommended the State divest its interests in many SOEs to allow 
market forces to develop and diversify the economy.  
23. Does the 
government have 
plans to do this?  Trinidad and Tobago has managed to achieve significant results in 
diversifying its economy from petroleum to a wider energy base. In 
addition, under the National Development Strategy (Vision 2030), 
the overall thrust of government’s policy, is focused on a chieving 
sustainable economic growth through greater diversification of the 
economy, placing the environment at the centre of economic and 
social development, as well as improving the social conditions and 
quality of life of citizens in an inclusive and ec ologically sensitive 
manner.   
The Government has identified and prioritised the establishment of 
new business clusters in seven (7) key national economic areas: 
Manufacturing, Financial services; Maritime services; Aviation 
services; Fishing and fish proc essing, agriculture and agro 
processing; Software design and applications; and the Creative 
Industries and is implementing several mechanisms to support 
these sectors as part of a wider economic transformation 
programme.  
3.3.6 Government procurement  
Page 72, Paragraph 3.128: The Secretariat report notes that Trinidad and Tobago is not a party to 
the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA). Given the changes that Trinidad and 
Tobago is making to its government procurement regime as hi ghlighted in the Secretariat report, 
becoming an Observer to the GPA would allow Trinidad and Tobago to engage with other countries 
on government procurement topics and issues  
24. Considering that 
Trinidad and Tobago 
would take on no 
market access 
commitments when 
becoming an 
Observer to the 
GPA, has Trinidad 
and Tobago 
considered applying 
to become an 
Observer?  At this time there is no immediate decision to join the GPA.  
25. When will the public 
procurement act be 
fully proclaimed and 
in force?  The GORTT is committed to the full proclamation of the Act.  
26. Did the government 
use public 
procurement and 
open tender 
processes before 
engaging with 
Beijing Construction 
Engineering Group 
and China Harbor 
Engineering 
Company in 2018 
for, respectively, 
the Phoenix Park 
Industrial Estate 
and the La Brea Dry The engagement of both firms were undertaken in accordance with 
the Laws of Trinidad and Tobago.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Dock proj ects? If 
not, why?  
27. Separately, did the 
government use 
public procurement 
and open tender 
processes before 
engaging with 
Australian firms 
Austal and Incat in 
2018 for the 
purchase of two 
new fast ferries for 
the Tobago sea -
bridge? If not, why?  The engagement of both firms were undertaken in accordance with 
the Laws of Trinidad and Tobago.  
3.3.7 Intellectual property rights - 3.3.7.3 Copyright  
Page 77, Paragraph 3.149 The Secretariat Report notes that “[t]he Copyright Act protects copyright 
from infringement on the Internet.”  
28. Please provide 
information on any 
cases or other kinds 
of enforcement 
actions that have 
involved online 
copyright 
infringement 
matters.  The GORTT considers the infringement of Copyright material a 
serious matter. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service undertakes 
a range of enforcement actions on an on -going basis which involve 
online and other forms of copyright infri ngement matters.  
29. Also, please advise 
whether and, if so, 
how the Copyright 
Act prohibits 
infringement on the 
Internet via 
streaming devices?  Pursuant to section 34A. (1)(a) of the Copyright Act Chap. 82:80, 
the following constitutes an infringement of  copyright and 
neighbouring rights: “the manufacture or importation for sale or 
rental of any device or means, specifically designed or adapted to 
circumvent any device or means intended to prevent or restrict 
reproduction of a work or to impair the qualit y of copies made (the 
latter device or means hereinafter referred to as “copy -protection 
or copy -management device or means”.  
Additionally, by section 34A. (1)(b) of the Copyright Act Chap. 
82:80, an infringement of copyright and neighbouring rights also 
constitute, “the manufacture or importation for sale or rental of any 
device or means that is susceptible to enable or assist the reception 
of an encrypted programme, which is broadcast or otherwise 
communicated to the public, including by satellite, by tho se who 
are not entitled to receive the programme.”  
30. Relatedly, we would 
be interested in 
learning what legal 
or regulatory 
authority might 
apply toward 
preventing the 
unauthorized 
transmission and/or 
retransmission of 
foreign broadcast 
and cable 
progra mming.  The Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago is by 
virtue of the Telecommunications Act the regulator of radio, TV, 
Cable and Satellite broadcasting companies. As part of the 
permission to broadcast, the Authority requires broadcasters to  
adhere to specific terms and conditions in their Concession which 
relate to programming, namely Clause D 13, which forbids the 
transmission and/or retransmission of unauthorized broadcasts/  
programmes. Clause 13 states:  
 
“The concessionaire shall not broadcast any programmes, 
information or other material without first obtaining all required 
permissions from the relevant owners of any intellectual property WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
in such programmes, information and other material, and shall not 
otherwise infringe the intellectual property rights of any person.”  
 
The Authority routinely conducts investigations to ensure 
compliance with Clause D 13 and in 2015 and 2018 took 
enforcement action against a concessionaire for the unauthorized 
transmissio ns of foreign broadcast and cable programming on its 
network.  
31. How many IPR 
arrests were made 
in the most recent 
year available by 
the police service?  According to figures provided by the Trinidad and Tobago Police 
Service, the arrests of Persons Charged under the Copyright Act for 
the period 2013 – 2019 were:  
Offences  2013  2014  2018  2019  Grand 
Total  
Breach of the Copyright 
Act 2 0 0 0 2 
Infringement of 
Copyright  9 0 2 6 17 
Possession of Copyright 
Material  4 1 0 0 5 
Grand Total  15 1 2 6 24 
 
❖ 10 out of the 24 Arrests were convicted.  
32. How many IPR 
seizures were made 
by the customs 
service in the most 
recent year 
available?  One major seizure took place in 2018, specifically as a result of a 
notice of objection to the importation of goods bearing trademarks 
of the New York Knicks and Miami Heat by NBA Properties Inc., one 
thousand eight hundred and thirty -six (1 ,836) pairs of footwear 
were seized in 2018.  
Page 77, Paragraph 3.152:  
33. How many IPR 
judgments are 
rendered a year in 
the civil court 
system?  Since the last Review, 6 judgements were delivered by the court 
system (on average one per year).  
34. What is the average 
length of time an 
IPR case takes to 
reach judgment?  Each case is distinct and as such, the average length of time an IPR 
case takes to reach judgment depends on its merits and 
circumstances. It is estimated that an IPR case takes, on average, 
two years to reach judgment. However, Trinidad and Tobago 
recently signed an MOU with the WIPO  ADR Centre to roll out IP 
and technology related ADR and domain name disputes. This is 
expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2019.  
35. The Secretariat 
reports that 
“[i]nformation 
provided by the 
authorities suggest 
that 14 cases 
related to 
tradem arks, 10 
related to 
copyrights, and 2 
related to patents 
have been dealt It is estimated that copyright cases take, on average, two years to 
reach judgment.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  UNITED STATES  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
with by the courts.” 
Please confirm the 
time period this 
covers. In those 
copyright cases, 
how many settled 
before final 
judgment? On 
average, what was 
the average total 
time for the 
copyright cases 
from filing to 
resolution?  
36. Relatedly, please 
provide details 
about regulatory 
actions taken by the 
Telecommunications 
Authority of 
Trinidad & Tobago 
(TATT) against 
cable and satellite 
operators that 
provide or provided 
unlicensed content 
to cable and 
satellite service 
subscribers. What 
types of regulatory 
actions is TATT 
authorized to take 
against cable and 
satellite operators 
who are providing 
unlicense d content, 
and does it depend 
on the type of 
content (e.g., 
broadcast television 
programming 
versus premium 
paid programming)?  TATT has routinely taken action against broadcasters either in the 
form of warnings and /or enforcement action. In 2015 and in 20 18, 
the Authority took enforcement action against cable operators for 
transmitting channels that did not have authorization to broadcast. 
The Authority also conducts routine audits of all cable and satellite 
operators to ensure that they are broadcasting c ontent that they 
are authorised to broadcast.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Balance of payments - Page 18, Table 1.3  
Balance of Payments, shows that errors and omissions are persistently relatively large and 
negative. In the last available year 2017 they stood at -1.1 billion USD.  
1. Did the 
Government 
attempt to 
analyse the 
causes for this 
item, and if 
yes, with 
what results?  The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (the Bank) is continuously 
trying to improve the coverage and quality of external sector statistics. 
A synopsis of the historical and ongoing efforts is provided below:  
1. In 2012, data from the main in vestment survey (administered to 
insurance companies and nonfinancial companies) were migrated to a 
new compilation system, for the period 2011 onward. This new system 
had a greater capacity for data verification including searching for 
missing data and/or  reporting errors.  
2. Utilizing Technical Assistance, the BOP and IIP were migrated by the 
Bank to the latest international standard: International Monetary Fund, 
Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, 
Sixth Edition (BPM6).  
Furth er improvements to the data are therefore expected in the future  
Page 23, table 1.6: Direct Foreign Investment  
Direct Investment Flows, shows that FDI flows decreased successively since 2014 and that they 
were highly negative in 2017 despite the considerable efforts by the Government, especially the 
Ministry of Trade, to attract FDI, e.g. Tamana InTech Park etc.  
2. Disregarding 
the special 
case of China, 
which is going 
to bring 
substantial 
FDI, would 
the 
Government 
consider that 
to change this 
trend and 
attract again 
FDI from 
countries such 
as the EU 
region, 
Canada and 
USA, this 
would require 
very different 
reforms t han 
incentives 
such as 
Tamana Park, 
in particular 
regarding 
business 
climate - see 
EU Question 
on this issue 
as well below -
? Would the 
Government 
consider 
Jamaica's Trinidad and Tobago continues to a ttract FDIs from several countries 
globally and is open for increased investments. Accordingly, it is 
implementing a series of reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing 
business in TT. Some of these reforms are detailed at paragraphs 2.27 
and 2.32 of th e Secretariat’s Report.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
structural 
reforms as an 
example to 
get inspiration 
from?  
Page 27 para 2.10:  
"The country is an original member of the WTO"  
3. Could Trinidad 
and Tobago 
clarify:  
(a) to what 
extent it still 
uses special 
and 
differential 
treatment 
available in 
existing 
agreements - 
excluding the 
TFA for which 
the EU is 
informed of 
category C 
representing 
70% of the 
commitments 
for Trinidad 
and Tobago 
and for which 
a separate 
question  is 
raised; and  
(b) what are 
its views as 
regards the 
resort to 
special and 
differential 
treatment in 
potentially 
future 
agreements?  (a) Trinidad and Tobago as a developing member of the WTO and 
member of several WTO Groupings (ACP, G90, SVE, G33 and W52)  
utilizes the special and differential treatment afforded by the existing 
agreements to implement its WTO commitments and measures to 
increase trade opportunities, safeguard its trade interests and access 
support through capacity building and technical ass istance to build its 
infrastructure to undertake WTO work, manage disputes and implement 
technical standards.  
(b) Trinidad and Tobago envisions that given its economic circumstances 
and institutional capacity that it will continue to require the more 
favourable treatment afforded by the special and differential treatment 
provisions in future agreements in order to more effectively benefit from 
the multilateral trading system.  
Page 30 para 2.12 on the Caribbean single market and Economy  
4. What 
measures 
does Trinidad 
and Tobago 
envisage for 
advancing the 
implementatio
n of the 
Caribbean 
Single Market 
and Economy?  At the national level, one of the primary measures that Trinidad and 
Tobago is undertaking to advance the implementation of the CARICOM 
Single Market and Economy is amendments to relevant legislation. Of 
priority in this regard, is the amendment of the Immigration (Caribbean 
Community Skilled Nationals) Act of 1996 as amended in 2003, to 
include, among other things, the expanded categories  of persons eligible 
for free movement under the free movement of skills/ labour regime of 
the CSME. Connected to legislative amendment is the need for the wider 
harmonization of laws and institutional structures across Member States 
to facilitate the full  implementation of other regimes under the CSME, 
namely the:  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
- Free movement of capital  
- Free movement of goods  
- Free movement of services; and  
- Right of Establishment.  
Among the areas requiring harmonization, the following have been 
identified as prio rity areas for action:  
• laws and institutions;  
• mechanisms that address social security benefits;  
• fulfilment of statutory obligations;  
• preservation of fair trade; and  
• public procurement processes.  
Additionally, for Trinidad and Tobago, the rat ification and 
implementation of a number of Protocols, for example the Protocol on 
Contingent Rights and the CARICOM Public Procurement Protocol, are 
key to advancing the overall implementation of the CSME.  
Page 36 business environment - Para 2.30  
The WTO reports states the following "Among the major concerns reported by the WEF are: a poor 
work ethic in the national labour force; inefficient government bureaucracy; corruption; and crime 
and theft. Trinidad and Tobago scored poorly in the World Bank's c ategories of "enforcing 
contracts", "paying taxes" and "registering property". Concerns have also been expressed by a 
major trading partner about foreign exchange shortages that delay payments to foreign firms; lack 
of transparency in public procurement; t ime consuming resolution of legal conflicts; and shortages 
of skilled and unskilled labour." Given the strategy put by the government for the period until 2030 
and detailed in para 2.2 page 23 " The main strategy being implemented to guide Trinidad and 
Tobago's overall social and economic development is "Vision 2030: The National Development 
Strategy of Trinidad and Tobago 2016 -30", which is being overseen and implemented by the 
Ministry of Planning and Development.2 It comprises 56 national goals, which fa ll under five 
overarching themes: (a) putting people first; (b) delivering good governance and service 
excellence; (c) improving productivity through quality infrastructure and transportation; (d) 
building globally competitive businesses; and (e) placing t he environment at the centre of social 
and economic development.3 "  
5. Given the 
importance of 
attracting FDI 
as stated by 
the 
authorities, in 
particular to 
diversify the 
economy and 
improve 
tourism, what 
are the 
intentions of 
the 
authorities 
regarding the 
above 
mentioned 
issues? 
Regarding 
labour law 
and 
conditions, 
what are the ‘Putting People First: Nurturing Our Greatest Asset’ and ‘Delivering Good 
Governance and Service Excelle nce’ are two themes within the National 
Development Strategy (Vision 2030).  Specific Goals have been 
established for the achievement of both themes as well as several 
Strategic Initiatives and Actions. The detailed strategic initiatives and 
actions identi fied for the achievement of both themes can be found at 
https://www.planning.gov.tt/site s/default/files/Vision%202030 -
%20The%20National%20Development%20Strategy%20of%20Trinidad
%20and%20Tobago%202016 -2030.pdf .  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
intentions of 
the 
authorities to 
remedy the 
"poor work 
ethic” and to 
implement the 
goal of 
"putting 
people first" 
and 
"delivering 
good 
governance"?  
Page 39 para 3.2  
WTO TFA implementation recalls the following "Trinidad and Tobago ratified the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement (TFA ) in July 2015. It notified its Category A commitments under the TFA in 
2015. In 2017 it notified its Category B and C commitments with indicative dates as well as its 
technical assistance requirements for Category C. In 2018 it provided its definitive dat es for 
Categories B and C.  As at December 2018, it had achieved a 21.4% rate of implementation of 
commitments (based on their notifications); this should increase to 70.6% by end -2027 with 
capacity building support." Page 40 para 3.9 states that despite e fforts that are well detailed in the 
Secretariat report regarding in particular the setting up of a single window, “Trinidad and Tobago 
continues to be ranked relatively poorly (in 130th place out of 190 economies) in the World Bank's 
2019 Doing Business r eport for trading across borders."  
6. Could the 
authorities 
inform about 
their 
implementatio
n of a 
National 
Trade 
Facilitation 
Committee 
and of its 
main findings 
and 
recommendati
ons? Has the 
country 
obtained the 
technical 
assistance to 
implement its 
category C 
notifications 
that represent 
the vast 
majority of 
the 
obligations 
stated in the 
TFA?  The National Trade Facilitation Committee of Trinidad and Tobago 
(NTFC) was established in March 2016 and consists of a cross section of 
government and private sector members critical to improving trade 
facilitation. The NTFC undertook an analysis of Trinidad and Tobago’s 
current trade facilitation activities and the requirement of the WTO TFA 
to identify the deficiencies of its current practices. This analysis i nformed 
the development of a national implementation plan for the WTO TFA. 
The main findings by the NTFC were included in its WTO notification of 
its Category B and C commitments.  
Trinidad and Tobago has not yet secured technical assistance from a 
WTO memb er to implement its Category C commitments; however it has 
secured loan funding from the Inter -American Development Bank (IADB) 
to undertake some projects necessary for the implementation of a 
number of its Category C commitments. Trinidad and Tobago is st ill 
seeking Technical Assistance and Capacity Building to implement other 
commitments.  
 
Section 3.3.2.1 Standards  
Page 63 para 3.78 -3.79 The WTO Secretariat report states that "In April 2018, the National Quality 
Policy 2018 -30 and its accompanying implementation plan was adopted. The Policy envisages WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
legislative and institutional reforms, and promotes greater and mor e organized multi -stakeholder 
involvement."  
7. The EU 
welcomes this 
initiative that 
aims at 
remedying 
current 
weaknesses. 
Could the 
authorities 
inform to 
which extent 
the multi -
stakeholder 
involvement 
will include 
foreign 
operators and 
whether the 
considered 
'national 
committee on 
non-tariff 
barriers will 
involve the 
private 
sector?  The Implementation Plan of the National Quality Policy includes Projects 
which would promote greater and more multi -stakeholder involvement. 
One such Project is the Deve lopment of a Training Programme for Good 
Regulatory Practices (GRP). This would require the establishment of a 
National Committee on Non -Tariff Barriers to ensure coordination 
amongst entities involved, provide training, as well as, educate on 
regulatory p ractices.  
It is envisaged that when the National Committee on Non -Tariff Barriers 
is established, it would comprise of agencies/ministries and other entities 
involved with non -tariff measures including representation from the 
private sector.  At this time,  it is not envisaged that foreign operators 
may form part of this representation.  Foreign operators may make 
representation through the designated Enquiry Points and relevant 
diplomatic channels as required.  
Paragraph 3.80  
The paragraph reports that "A N ational Standardization Strategy is being prepared by the TTBS".  
8. Could the 
authorities 
clarify 
whether this 
strategy will 
be subject to 
a public 
consultation?  In the development of the National Standardization Strategy, several 
stakeholder engagements sessions were held as part of the consultative 
process in July 2018. A national survey was conducted during the period 
2017-12-05 to 2018 -01-30. 
The final version will be placed on the TTBS’S website 
(http://g ottbs.com/ ) for viewing by all stakeholders. Annual reviews will 
be done and all stakeholders will be invited to submit comments during 
the review process which would be scheduled for 2019/2020 and 
2020/2021.  
Stakeholders will be invited to submit proposal s for new standards, 
revision of existing standards and withdrawal of existing standards for 
TTBS’ consideration as part of its standards work planning process.  
The TTBS Standards Work Programme is issued twice during the year 
and is available on the TTBS website for feedback. Also, TTBS notifies, 
through its WTO/TBT Enquiry Point the existence, of the Standards Work 
Programme to ISO/IEC as indicated in the Annex 3, Code of Good 
Practice for the Preparation, Adoption and Application of Standards of 
the WTO TBT Agreement.  
Paragraph 3.81  
Para 3.81 states that "based on TTBS procedures, standards and technical regulations may be 
developed locally or adapted from existing foreign standards and regulations. In the first instance, 
these are based on ISO and IEC standards, followed by those of major trading partners, mainly the 
United States and the United Kingdom. According to the authorities, the TTBS follows the guidelines WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
specified in the ISO/IEC directives, which highlight the use of the performance principle in the 
drafting of standards."  
9. Could the 
authorities 
inform 
whether they 
will resort to 
other 
international 
standards 
beyond 
ISO/IEC when 
developing 
standards and 
technical 
regulations, 
for instance, 
such as ITU, 
CODEX 
Alimentarius, 
UNECE and 
ICAO?  As part of its standards development process, TTBS would first review 
international standards (ISO and IEC) to determine whether they are 
suitable for national adoption. If not, TTBS would proceed to review 
regional standards (for example, those issued by the CARICOM Regional 
Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ)). If there are no 
international or regional standards which are suitable, other foreign 
standards would be reviewed for suitability.  
In light of this, TTBS has a number of Memoranda of Un derstanding with 
foreign standards bodies (such as BSI, CEN) and other standards 
development organizations (such as CSA, UL, ASTM International).  
As part of the standards development process, the most appropriate 
base standard will be identified. Where nec essary, TTBS will engage the 
relevant standards body or standards development organization to 
facilitate adoption.  
Please note the following:  
• TTBS does not have the mandate to establish national standards for 
food, drugs and cosmetics. This is the respon sibility of the Chemistry, 
Food and Drugs Division (CFDD), Ministry of Health.  
• CFDD participates in CODEX and utilizes these standards as necessary.  
• The Ministry of Public Administration and the Telecommunications 
Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT ) participates in ITU and TATT 
has the mandate to establish technical standards, as necessary, based 
on the Telecommunications Act.  
• TTBS has utilized UNECE Standards to assist in the development of 
national standards. One example is ECE R110, which was a  reference in 
TTS/NFPA 52:2017; Specification for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 
Vehicular Fuel Systems (1st Revision).  
 
• TTBS has not adopted the ICAO to date.  
Page 69 - Section 3.3.4 - Competition Policy: Paragraph 3.107  
Paragraph 3.107 states that "the competition provisions laid down in the Fair Trading Act are not 
applicable to certain sectors, notably the securities industry; telecoms: banking; intellectual 
property"  
10. What is the 
reason for 
excluding 
these sectors? 
Are they 
subject to 
specific 
sectors' rules 
that address 
competition 
issues?  There are specific rules and regulatory bodies addressing competition in 
these sectors. As an example, the securities industry is regulated by the 
Trinidad and Tobago Securities Commission pursuant t o the Securities 
Act, the telecom sector is regulated by the Telecommunications 
Authority of Trinidad and Tobago pursuant to the Telecommunications 
Act, the banking sector is regulated by the Central Bank of Trinidad and 
Tobago and the Ministry of Finance under various pieces of legislation 
and the intellectual property sector is regulated by the Intellectual 
Property Office under several pieces of legislation.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 69 - Section 3.3.4 - Competition Policy: Paragraph 3.108  
Para 3.108 reports that "the Fair Trade Commission has not been able to receive and investigate 
complaint, nor is it able to bring cases before the court.”  
11. Given the 
above, what is 
the role of the 
CARICOM 
Competition 
Commission 
as it seems 
that it has 
started 
investigating 
some cases 
and that it has 
a role in 
absence of 
national 
action?  The relevant provisions in the Fair Trading Act which recognizes the work 
and functions of the CARICOM Competition Commission have not yet 
been proclaimed. It is however true th at the CARICOM Competition 
Commission has been investigating cases and where necessary the 
Trinidad and Tobago Fair Trading Commission has assisted with respect 
to the collecting of data and other information concerning relevant 
business activity in Trinid ad and Tobago.  
12. Could the 
government 
explain the 
reasons for 
this delay in 
proclaiming 
the act and 
give 
information 
regarding the 
intentions of 
the 
government in 
this regard  The Trinidad and Tobago Fair Trading Commission has embarked on 
increased public sensitization efforts in order to prepare stakeholders for 
the full proclamation of the legislation. The Government is committed to 
having the legislation fully proclaimed in the very near future.  
Page 86 para 4.1.3.3 Domestic support  
Para 4.22 indicates that the "Data provided by the authorities show that the percentage of 
agriculture -related allocation in the budget increased from 1.5% in 2012 to 2.1% in 2015, then 
declined to 1.3% in 2017 (Table 4.5)."  
13. The latest 
DS:1 
notification 
from Trinidad 
& Tobago 
dates back to 
2015 and 
covers the 
years up to 
2013. When 
does Trinidad 
& Tobago 
intend to send 
the DS:1 
notification 
for the 
remaining 
years?  Trinidad and Tobago endeavo urs to submit its notifications in the 
shortest pos sible period.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
14. The EU notes 
that the 
Secretariat 
Report does 
not mention 
any detailed 
support 
measures for 
agricultural 
procedures 
while 
indicating the 
following in 
para 4.4. page 
80 that “The 
Government 
has been 
prioritizing 
the 
development 
of agriculture 
to diversify 
the economy 
away from the 
dominance of 
oil and gas, 
and to 
increase food 
security.”. 
Could the 
authorities 
indicate which 
measures it 
has taken to 
incentivise 
agricultural 
production 
and the 
annual 
budgetary 
outlay for 
these 
measures 
during the 
years 2014 t o 
2018? 
Regarding the 
objective to 
diversify the 
economy, 
what are the 
measures 
considered in 
the 
agriculture to 
make 
agriculture 
more The GORTT has placed strategic focus on facilitating economic growth 
and developing downstream acti vities in the agricultural sector. The 
implementation of various initiatives is geared at creating an atmosphere 
to motivate farmers to increase productive capacity, become business 
entrepreneurs and facilitate economic growth for the agriculture sector.  
This has been done in broad thematic areas over the last three fiscal 
years (2016, 2017 and 2018) including:  
Enhanced service delivery - educate, provide advice, and inform farmers, 
youth and other interested persons through training programmes, 
demonstrat ions, publications and dissemination of technical factsheets 
and manuals and the transfer of new and improved technology for 
increased productivity and employment; improved livelihoods and 
increased food and nutrition security.  
Youth development in agricul ture – the GORTT implemented a (2) year 
Youth Agricultural Apprenticeship Programme, partnering with the On 
the Job Training Agency targeting young persons in 2 specified locations; 
under a Development of Young Entrepreneurs in Ornamental 
Horticulture in R ural Communities programme, fifty (50) young persons 
were trained in Floral Arranging and Design and Cut Flower and Foliage 
Production.  
Sustainable Use Management and Development – forest, fisheries, 
environment - a major Priority for the fisheries sector  has been 
Sustainable Fisheries Management mainly due to International, Regional 
and National obligations, and the depleted status of stocks. Past stock 
assessments reveal that most fish stocks are either fully to over - 
exploited or over –fished and the GO RTT has therefore taken the decision 
to upgrade legislation and regulations regarding fisheries management; 
development of policies and plans to facilitate sustainable forests 
management including for example, a draft National Protected Areas 
Systems Plan for Trinidad and Tobago and initiation of projects such as 
the Arena Forest Reserve Project under the Queens Commonwealth 
Canopy (QCC) Project, aimed at providing forest protection, eco -system 
services to the surrounding community, and sustainable supply o f water 
to the Caroni Arena Dam, located in the reserve; and guiding/training 
farmers in Trinidad and Tobago on use/adoption of  Good Agricultural 
Practices (GAP) such as proper record management, integrated pest 
management, proper pesticide storage, harve sting and post harvesting 
technique to ensure sustainable agriculture production.  
Improving land administration and the delivery of land leases to give 
farmers increased security of tenure and greater ability to access funding 
and incentives. The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries has 
sought technical assistance from FAO to develop and implement a 
project to strengthen Land Administration starting in 2018; field work to 
facilitate updating land records throughout Trinidad and Tobago.  
Infrastructure  development - construction, rehabilitation, repair and 
maintenance of infrastructure which assists in creating an enabling 
environment for the agricultural sector including farming communities, 
and agro -ecotourism the fisheries and forestry sectors.  
Legislative review - outdated legislation has been identified as a major 
challenge to the implementation of policy for the agriculture, forestry 
and fisheries sectors. The GORTT has recognised that policy initiatives 
must be supported by relevant Legislation an d a legislative agenda is WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
sustainable, 
greener?  being pursued to update legislation including a modern Fisheries 
Management Legislation Bill  to deal with monitoring and sustainable 
management of Fisheries and an Animal Health Bill  which is intended to 
address issues such as t he monitoring and surveillance of diseases, 
importation, exportation and transit requirements, animal health 
emergency preparedness, quarantine and the welfare and care of 
animals.  
Page 92 para 4.45  
reads as follows “The Agreement to Promote Compliance with International and Management 
Measures by Fishing Vessels in High Seas has not yet been ratified by Trinidad and Tobago. A 
proposal for signing was submitted to the Cabinet in August 2017 , and is awaiting a decision.” Para 
4.49 also reports that “a draft Fisheries Management Bill has been prepared and is currently being 
finalized; it is expected to replace the Fisheries Act, 1916, and makes provisions for, inter alia, the 
registration of fishers and the licensing of Trinidad and Tobago fishin g vessels in accordance with 
international best fisheries management practice.” Para 4.50. reports that "The Government has 
been trying to facilitate the development of the fisheries sector, through border protection and 
domestic support. The authorities s tated that managing and maintaining the sustainability of the 
fisheries sector is complex; the main challenges facing the authorities include: outdated fisheries 
legislation and institutional structures for effective fisheries management and for compliance  with 
international obligations; the lack of human and financial resources; the lack of capacity in fisheries 
monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement; the open access nature of fisheries; inadequate 
data and information for fisheries management decision -making; and inadequate collaboration and 
cooperation among a range of national regulatory agencies with a role in fisheries management. 
The authorities consider that the draft Fisheries Management Bill will enable Trinidad and Tobago 
to meet its i nternational obligations and to manage fisheries in a manner that is in accordance with 
international best practices."  
15. Could the 
authorities 
report on the 
progress in 
developing 
the Fisheries 
Management 
Bill and 
indicate when 
the Bill will be 
brought to 
parliament?  The Draft Fisheries Management Bill (DFMB) has been updated with 
support under the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United 
Nations (FAO) Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) – Strengthening 
Fisheries Legislation in Trinidad and Tobago – Focus on IUU Fishing.  
Revisions are currently being made to the DFMB based on 
recommendations received during national stakeholder consultations. 
Once the amendments are finalized, it will be resubmitted to Cabinet for 
consideration.  
16. Could the 
authorities 
also specify 
when the Plan 
of Action to 
ensure 
monitoring 
and 
inspections in 
the fisheries 
sector will be 
adopted and 
applied?  An Action Plan to address illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in 
the Ports and Waters under the Jur isdiction of Trinidad and Tobago is 
under consideration by the Cabinet of Trinidad and Tobago.  
Page 106 Paragraph 4.94 - Financial Services  
This paragraph reads, "To obtain a licence, a foreign financial institution must, inter alia, appoint a 
resident of  Trinidad and Tobago as its principal representative, and be subject to regulation and 
supervision in its home jurisdiction that is satisfactory to the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
17. Could the 
authorities 
explain how 
the Central 
Bank of 
Trinidad and 
Tobago 
verifies the 
notion of 
‘satisfaction’ 
regarding 
regulation and 
supervision of 
the foreign 
financial 
institution’s 
home 
jurisdiction?" 
In addition, it 
is provided 
that the 
foreign 
financial 
institution 
must maintain 
similar capital 
adequ acy 
requirements 
as a licensed 
domestic 
financial 
institution, or 
a larger 
amount that 
the Central 
Bank may 
specify. Could 
the 
authorities 
explain under 
what 
circumstances 
the Central 
Bank may 
require 
dissimilar 
capital 
adequacy 
requirements 
for foreign 
financial 
institutions?  This requirement pertains to where the entity seeking a license in 
Trinidad and Tobago is part of a financial group that is regulated in a 
foreign jurisdiction. In this regard, a key consideration in determining 
whether to grant a lic ence is the Central Bank’s ability to share 
information with and gather information from the regulator in the foreign 
jurisdiction.  
The ability of the Central Bank to request higher capital adequacy 
requirements for a licensee, that is, either a licensed d omestic financial 
institution or a licensed foreign financial institutions is enshrined in 
section 17 (10) of the Financial Institutions Act, 2008 which states that 
“…… a licensee may be required by the Inspector to provide additional 
capital in cash or ap proved securities for the business it is conducting 
and may be required to satisfy the Inspector that its capital base is 
adequate in accordance with the capital adequacy requirements imposed 
by Regulations under this Act.”  Consequently, the Central Bank’ s ability 
to impose higher capital adequacy requirements on a licensee is equally 
applicable to domestic and foreign financial institutions, and is 
determined on the basis of risk.  
18. Could the 
authorities 
explain the 
rationale for 
the different 
USF Section 18 (1) (c) of the Telecommunications Act states:  
 
‘Subject to the provisions of this Act, the Authority may exercise such 
functions and powers as are imposed on it by this Act and in particular 
determine U niversal Service obligations throughout Trinidad and WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
contribution 
rates between 
national and 
international 
operators, and 
whether and 
how this 
scheme is 
seen as 
compatible 
with the non -
discrimina -
tion 
requirements 
in section 3 of 
the WTO 
Refer ence 
paper on 
Telecommunic
ations 
services?  Tobago, pursuant to Section 28, and ensure that such obligations are 
realised.’  
 
Section 28 (3) continues:  
 
‘In accordance with the policy established by the Minister, the Authority 
shall periodically de termine the manner in which a public 
telecommunications services or value added services shall be provided 
and funded in order to meet the requirements of Universal Service for 
that service, including the obligations, if any, of the providers and users 
of the service’  
 
Additionally, A15 b. of the concession awarded to all concessionaires 
states:  
 
‘…where the concessionaire is authorised to operate public domestic 
mobile, public domestic fixed, and/or public international 
telecommunications networks, and/or provide public domestic fixed, 
public domestic mobile, public international telecommunications, and/or 
broadcasting services, remit such amount no greater than three per cent 
(3%) of gross annual revenues from such netwo rks and services as may 
be specified by the Authority regarding Universal Service, into an 
account or fund to be specified by the Authority for the development of 
a Universal Service and access programme.’  
In determining the percentages to be imposed on ap plicable 
concessionaires in Trinidad and Tobago, the Telecommunications 
Authority of Trinidad and Tobago researched other jurisdictions to 
identify the amount of the contributions imposed on service providers in 
those countries. In addition, to determine t he paying obligations that 
would be the least burdensome, the Authority conducted a 
reasonableness test taking into consideration the above benchmarks and 
the current fee expenses of the service providers.  
Given the level of concession and licence fees ch arged by the Authority 
and the ability of the Authority to allocate a percentage of its income to 
Universal Service (Section 53 (3) of the Act), the Authority imposed 
Universal Service obligations of a contribution to the USF that is:  
 0.5% of gross revenu es[1] arising from telecommunications 
services[2] and/or network facilities from domestic concessionaires  
 1% of gross revenues arising from telecommunications services 
and/or network facilities of international concessionaires  
This approach ensures that contributions are not burdensome to 
concessionaires and allows a fixed percentage of contributions to be 
collected from service providers which grant a level of certainty with 
respect to the amount of contributions they are required to pay for the 
year. Th e Authority considers that the monies collected will be used 
towards the cost of funding Universal Service initiatives identified by the 
Universal Service Committee in the biennial Implementation Report.  
 
It must be noted that predictability, timing and fr equency of funding is 
necessary to allow proper planning and constancy for the projects to be 
implemented.  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 23 - 
 
  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Contributions to the USF is applicable only to authorized concessionaires 
who provide public domestic and/or international telecommunications 
networ k/services in Trinidad and Tobago. In order to qualify to be a 
concessionaire, an entity must be registered in Trinidad and Tobago to 
provide these applicable services. It should be noted, that entities that 
do not require a concession to provide network/s ervices in Trinidad and 
Tobago are not contributors to the USF  
Page 115 Paragraph 4.131 - Maritime transport  
This paragraph states the following. "The main law governing shipping is the Shipping Act (Chap. 
50.10), last amended in 2007. Amendments to the Shipping Act have been drafted."  
19. Could the 
authorities 
provide an 
overview of 
the most 
important 
recent 
amendments 
to the 
Shipping Act 
and the 
objectives 
pursued with 
these 
proposals? 
Could Trinidad 
and Tobago 
indicate a 
timeline for  
the entry into 
force of the 
revised law?  "The Shipping Bill, 2019 seeks to do the following:  
• Provide for a Maritime Authority of Trinidad and Tobago that will 
replace the current organizational structure of the maritime 
Administration;  
• Repeal and replace archaic components of the current maritime 
legislative regime of Trinidad and Tobago while consolidating and 
amending other relevant legislation;  
• Adopt and incorporate new maritime conventions, protocols and 
codes as created by the International Maritime O rganization and 
the International Labour Organization;  
• Revise and update existing penal provisions.  
It is intended that the Bill will be introduced into Parliament before the 
end of 2019.  
Page 117 para 4.144  
"Vessel and cargo management challenges at the Port of Port of Spain still persist, and include: 
channel restrictions which limit the size of vessels that can be accommodated at ports; lack of funds 
for the upgrade/replacement of poor/deteriorating infrast ructure; administrative challenges 
generated by stakeholders and customs, resulting in congestion due to excessive dwell time of 
cargo; lack of equipment to deal with certain types of cargo; and unproductive working practices 
built into industrial agreemen ts. "The summary page 7 states that "the port inefficiencies have so 
far prevented Trinidad and Tobago from improving its international rankings for trading across 
borders. A pilot "voluntary compliance programme" was launched, which allows participants to  print 
out their own cargo release orders. Around 30 -35% of imports are physically inspected."  
20. Could the 
authorities 
indicate why 
such a large 
portion of 
imports are 
inspected and 
why that 
portion has 
increased 
compared to 
last TPR (it 
was about 20 -
25% and now The issues which have been the determining factor to the level of 
physical inspections since the last Trade Policy Review are specific to 
Customs and Excise related issues and matters of national security such 
as:  
• Increase in the incidence of miscl assified goods; and  
• An increased need to detect illegal cargo items such as narcotics, arms 
and ammunition.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
is about 30 -
35%) despite 
the pre -arrival 
declarations 
that are now 
required from 
transport ers? 
21. How is risk 
management 
carried out? 
Could the 
authorities 
provide more 
detailed 
information 
about their 
criteria for 
risk 
management?  The Customs and Excise Division employs risk management techniques 
which are in keeping with World Customs Organization (WCO) best 
practices. Specifically, using the application of the United Nations 
Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)  ASYCUDA World Risk 
Management Module, risk profiles and assessments are done based on 
stations, importers, Customs agents, intelligence, information and 
trends. In addition, high risk commodity, high valued goods, frequently 
misclassified goods, border ag ency requirements, Ex -warehouse goods, 
goods under concessions, Common External Tariff suspensions are the 
criteria used in which goods are selected for inspection.  
22. More widely, 
how do the 
authorities 
intend to 
address these 
challenges 
above 
mentioned  in 
para 4.144?  The GORTT is cognizant of the urgent need to enhance the efficiency of 
port operations in the country in order to improve the overall efficiency 
of the good clearance process.  Several initiatives have been identified 
to deal with this chal lenge including:  
 
(i) Implementation of a Port Community System  
(ii) Execution of Business Process Reengineering of the major 
operations at the Ports  
(iii) Implementation of Container Scanners for Goods  
(iv) Upgrades in existing and new Port Infrastructure  
Page 118 para 4.155 refers to a global review of the tourism policy in 2019 with the view to 
contribute to implementing the UN Sustainable goals.  
23. Could the 
authorities 
indicate what 
are the 
objectives 
pursued and 
the role of 
incentives 
such as those 
mentioned in 
para 4.161 
and in para 
4.162 in this 
regard? Is 
Trinidad and 
Tobago 
considering 
an 
assessment of 
the impact of 
the incentives 
provided 
currently only 
to national 
companies?  Since the introduction of the Tourism Development Act, Chapter 8 7:22 
(TDA), the GoRTT has facilitated several tourism development projects 
across Trinidad and Tobago. The TDA also provides additional tourism 
developmental incentives to assist in developing other sectors of the 
industry such as the Ancillary Sector and the Tourism Transportation 
Sector. The developmental tourism incentives available to investors 
include:  
• Tax Benefits  
• Custom and Excise Duty Benefits  
• Motor Vehicles Tax Benefits  
 
In addition, there are other Government programmes designed to 
promot e the development of the tourism industry such as the:  
 
• Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Programme (TAUP)  
• Government Loan Guarantee (GLG)  
 
The GoRTT has recently embarked upon an exercise to ensure that the 
most attractive investment environment exists wi thin the tourism 
industry that would result in favourable conditions for investment 
opportunities. In this regard, the Ministry of Tourism has engaged a team 
of industry experts (Tourism Incentives Advisory Committee) to review WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
the current suite of tourism  incentives locally. The Committee is guided 
by inter alia by the following Scope of Services:  
i) A Robust Economic Evaluation of the current suite of tourism 
incentives granted by GoRTT over the last seven (7) years (undertake a 
cost-benefit analysis); and  
ii) A Comparative Jurisdictional Analysis of the tourism incentive 
offerings by, but not limited to, regional competitors and similar tourism 
destinations that would measure Trinidad and Tobago’s competitive 
standing in terms of the tourism incentives offered.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 26 - 
 
  COSTA RICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 28) – Para 2.8.  
The objectives of the national trade policy for the period under review were specified in the MTI’s 
2013-2017 Trade Policy and Strategy. They were the following: a) expand access to markets for 
goods and services in Trinidad and Tobago at the regional and global levels; b) protect the sensitive 
productive sectors12; c) increase production, competitiveness and exports of goods and services 
with high added value, particularly from the non -energy sectors; d) improve the business 
environment and create a favourable environment for trade; e) strengthen the institutional 
commercial framework; f) mobilize resources to finance the needs of the sectors related to trade; 
g) incorporate  trade policy into the process of formulating broader macroeconomic and development 
policies; and h) participate in the integration and cooperation processes of the region and the 
hemisphere. A new Trade Policy and Strategy is being formulated for the 2018 -2022 period.  
1. What has 
been the 
strategy for 
expanding 
access to 
markets for 
goods and 
services in 
Trinidad and 
Tobago, and 
how is it 
subject to 
acceptance 
by the other 
countries of 
the 
Caribbean 
Commun -
ity? Some of the initiatives undertaken by Trinidad and Tobago to expand market 
access for goods in Trinidad and Tobago are the modernization of its quality 
infrastructure to enhance the competitiveness of exporters through the 
development of a National Quality Policy, and the revision of its Trade  Policy 
and Strategy for the period 2019 -2023. In addition, Trinidad and Tobago’s 
national export promotion agency, exporTT conducts market research and 
capacity building workshops to assist exporters with market penetration 
efforts. These are also complim ented by the hosting and conduct of trade 
missions to key trading partners.  
 
Trinidad and Tobago has also sought to expand access to markets for goods 
through the expansion of existing trade agreements and the negotiation of 
new trade agreements.  
 
Trinidad  and Tobago’s trade policy with non -CARICOM Member States is 
subject to the provisions of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC), 
namely Article 80 – Coordination of External Trade Policy and Article 81 – 
Deposit of Agreements with Third Countries of the RTC. The RTC states that 
bilateral agreements negotiated by Member States in pursuance of their 
national strategic interests shall:  
(a) be without prejudice to their obligations under the Treaty; and  
(b) prior to their conclusion, be subject to certificat ion by the CARICOM 
Secretariat that the agreements do not prejudice or place at a disadvantage 
the position of other CARICOM States vis -à-vis the Treaty.  
Where trade agreements involving tariff concessions are negotiated, the 
prior approval of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), 
the Regional organ responsible for trade and related matters within the 
Caribbean Community is required.  
 
Trinidad and Tobago’s strategy for expanding market access for services has 
focused on one hand on develop ing the domestic capacity and 
competitiveness of key priority services subsectors including maritime, 
creative and fashion with strategic target markets in mind.  To that end the 
GORTT has developed several national sector development policies and 
revised many incentive regimes available to the private sector. One such 
measure being pursued is the establishment of a Secured Transaction 
Registry System that would allow exporters to use “moveable” assets as 
collateral to secure trade finance for services expo rters.  
 
The GORTT has also established specialized companies with responsibility 
for developing specific sectors such as CreativeTT charged with developing 
the fashion, film and music sectors. These companies work collaboratively WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 27 - 
 
  COSTA RICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
with line Ministries to d evelop capacity building and export strategies for 
prioritized sectors.  
The GORTT has also sought to strengthen its trade promotion support to 
services exporters via the country’s premier export support agency exporTT. 
exporTT has been strengthened to better support services exporters and 
now has a dedicated unit treating with services export issues including 
market intelligence information and market penetration support.  
 
The GORTT has also been pursuing with its regional partners, the adoption 
of a more aggressive approach to concluding services chapters in existing 
bilateral agreements.  
Page. 32) 2.18.  
CARICOM maintains RTAs (involving reciprocal trade liberalization) in force with the Dominican 
Republic, Colombia, Cuba and Costa Rica  (Table 2.5). Although the Agreement on Trade and 
Economic and Technical Cooperation between CARICOM and Colombia has not yet been 
incorporated into the legislation of Trinidad and Tobago, in 1999 provisional measures were applied 
to implement the Agreemen t and the preferences established in it. Negotiations on an RTA between 
Canada and CARICOM were suspended in 2015. CARICOM is studying the feasibility of entering into 
trade agreements with the Central American Common Market, members of MERCOSUR and other 
countries of South America.  
2. In what 
state is the 
feasibility 
study for the 
possible 
conclusion of 
trade 
agreements 
with the 
Central 
American 
Common 
Market, 
MERCOSUR 
and other 
countries of 
South 
America?  The technical work in this area is ongoing at the Regional level.  
Page. 42) 3.7.  
Approximately 30% to 35% of imports are subject to physical inspection, which contrasts with the 
data of the previous examination (from 20% to 25%); the authorities indicate that physical 
inspections are related to risk management and national security. The criteria for selecting the 
goods that will be subject to inspection are: type and value of the goods; goods with high tariff 
rates; numbers of tariff items that are frequently classified incorrectly; repeat offend ers; and 
country of origin.  
3. Has the 
increase in 
physical 
inspections 
given the 
results that 
justify 
maintaining 
this 
percentage The issues which have been the determining factor to the level of physical 
inspections since the last Trade Policy Review are specific to Customs and 
Excise related issues and matters of national security such as:  
• Increase in the incide nce of misclassified goods; and  
• An increased need to detect illegal cargo items such as narcotics, arms 
and ammunition.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 28 - 
 
  COSTA RICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
of import 
control? In 
the case of 
products 
originating 
in Costa 
Rica, what 
would be the 
main 
findings of 
the physical 
reviews?  
Page. 57) 3.49.  
The customs requirements with respect to exports from Trinidad and Tobago have not changed 
since the last review. Exp orters must complete a customs declaration form (e -C82) with the 
intermediation of a customs agent. User rights are the same as in the case of import documentation 
(TTD 40 in the case of commercial declarations and TTD 10 for all others). Exporters must al so 
submit the following documents: an invoice indicating the price paid at the national level, an export 
license (if required) (Table 3.8), a certificate of origin for goods subject to preferential treatment 
under a free trade agreement (FTA), and a bill o f lading or an air waybill. These documents must 
be submitted electronically through the CBCS / ASYCUDA system. As with imports, this system is 
connected to the TTBizLink platform so that exporters can request licenses and certificates of origin 
from relev ant organizations electronically. Certificates of origin for exports destined for partners 
that are part of LAC (including CARICOM) are issued by the National Export Facilitation Organization 
of Trinidad and Tobago (exporTT); the usual rate is TTD 100 per certificate. Certificates of origin for 
exports required by partners that are not part of LAC are issued by the Chamber of Commerce and 
Industry of Trinidad and Tobago; The fees that apply are TTD 75 per certificate for its members and 
TTD 100 for non -memb ers. At present, exporters have to collect their certificates of origin in exporTT 
or in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago; however, the updates that 
will be applied to computer programs in the future will allow exporters to print  them themselves. 
The approved shipping documents are presented to the customs officer in charge of the shipments 
at the port of loading, who dispatches the shipment for export. Certificates of origin for cocoa 
exports are issued by the Cocoa Development S ociety of Trinidad and Tobago (CDCTT) (section 
4.1.3.1).  
4. Since when 
is the 
electronic 
request for 
certificates 
of origin 
made under 
the FTA with 
Costa Rica? 
We thank 
you for 
providing us 
with 
information 
about the 
application 
process and 
delivery of 
certificates 
of origin.  Electronic processing of Certificate of Origins under the CARICOM/Costa Rica 
agreement began in 2014. For further information see 
https://www.ttbizlink.gov.tt/trade/tnt/cmn/pdf/MODULE%20certificate%2
0of%20origin.pdf   
(Page 66) 3.69  
In the 2018 budget, the Government introduced several new incentives and proposed “re -
establishing” the export reliefs offered to manufacturers by reducing taxes on income generated by WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COSTA RICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
additional exports to existing markets. The authorities have reported t hat this program has not 
been applied in practice.  
5. Could you 
provide 
more 
information 
on the 
application 
of this tax 
exemption to 
exports?  This measure is not currently in effect.  
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 30 - 
 
  MEXICO  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 27, (paragraph 2.11)  
2.11 Over the review period, Trinidad and Tobago has been involved in no new WTO dispute 
settlement cases as complainant or respondent but has been involved in one new case as a third 
party.14 It has submitted notifications under various WTO agreements (Table 2 .4). Certain 
notifications are not up -to-date or are outstanding, in the areas of: domestic support and export 
subsidies in agriculture; quantitative restrictions; customs valuation (relating to the Decision on 
Interest Charges (G/VAL/5, A.3) and the Decis ion on Carrier Media (G/VAL/5, A.4)); applied tariff 
for 2018; import data for 2016; subsidies; and state trading enterprises. CARICOM’s RTAs with 
the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Cuba, and Costa Rica have not been notified to the WTO, nor 
has the RTA bet ween Trinidad and Tobago and Panama (Section 2.3.2). Trinidad and Tobago has 
not made any notifications under GATS Article III:3 or GATS Article III:4.  
1. What timeframe has 
Trinidad and Tobago 
established to deliver 
these pending 
notifications?  With respect to the pending notifications, Trinidad and Tobago 
is working diligently on delivering these pending and 
outstanding notifications to the World Trade Organization 
(WTO). Trinidad and Tobago endeavo urs to submit its 
notifications in the shortest possible period.  
Page 39, (paragraph 3.7)  
Around 30 -35% of imports are physically inspected, compared to approximately 20 -25% at the 
time of the previous Review; the authorities indicate that physical inspections are linked to risk 
managem ent and national security. The selection of goods for inspection is related to the type 
and value of goods, goods with high duty rates, frequently misclassified tariff heading numbers, 
repeat offenders, and source country.  
2. What risks or national 
security issues has 
Trinidad and Tobago 
identified as the 
reasons for the 
substantial increase 
(around 45%) in 
physical inspections 
since the last Trade 
Policy Review?  The issues which have been the determining factor to the level 
of physical insp ections since the last Trade Policy Review are 
specific to Customs and Excise related issues and matters of 
national security such as:  
• Increase in the incidence of misclassified goods; and  
• An increased need to detect illegal cargo items such as 
narcot ics, arms and ammunition.  
Page 42 – Paragraph 3.18  
The applied MFN rate exceeded the bound rate on 59 lines in 2018, up from 50 in 2011 (Table 
3.2); this can be attributed to a change in HS nomenclature from HS07 to HS2012. At the time 
of its previous Review, Trinidad and Tobago explained that, in most cases, when the applied rate 
exceeds the bound rate, the tariffs for the products concerned were fixed with the adoption of the 
CET (see below). The authorities state that the issue of broken bin dings is being considered in 
the context of the CARICOM Rules of Origin and CET review (Sections 3.1.2 and 3.1.3.5).  
3. Does Trinidad and 
Tobago have any plans 
to address this excess 
over the bound rate?  Trinidad and Tobago is addressing this concern at the regional 
level. As Trinidad and Tobago seeks to fulfil its obligations at 
the multilateral level, it is engaged in dialogue with its 
CARICOM partners to minimize any adverse impact on the 
Regional arran gement from its actions. It is expected that this 
matter will be rectified in the short term.  
Page 68 – Paragraph 3.108  
The Fair Trading Commission, an independent statutory agency in charge of monitoring and 
enforcing the provisions of the FTA, was esta blished in 2014. However, the authorities indicated 
that, as the parts of the Fair Trading Act dealing with receiving complaints and conducting 
investigations have not been proclaimed, the Commission has not been able to receive and 
investigate complaints,  nor is it able to bring cases before the court. The FTA stipulates that the 
Commission may conduct investigations; it may initiate an investigation of suspected anti -
competitive behavio ur on its own initiative, or after having received a complaint from a business 
affected by such behavio ur. The Commission may refer contraventions of the FTA to the High WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 31 - 
 
  MEXICO  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Court, where it will seek the appropriate remedy. Obstructing or impeding the activities of the 
Commission may result in fines and custodial sentences.  
4. Is there a 
plan/timeframe to 
have the Fair Trading 
Act proclaimed so as to 
have a fully 
operational Fair 
Trading Commission?  The Fair Trading Act will be fully proclaimed during the 3rd 
quarter of 2019. In the interim, the Fair Trading Commission 
has em barked on a public awareness campaign to educate the 
public on the Act.  
Page 83 and 84, (paragraph 4.14 and 4.18)  
4.14 The agriculture sector receives more trade protection than the rest of the economy. The 
tariff is the main trade policy tool in Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, some agricultural products 
are also subject to surcharges at the border (Section 3.1.3.4).  
4.18 In addition to import tariffs, some agricultural commodities are subject to surcharges 
(Section 3.1.3.4). The authorities stat ed that the surcharges are considered as other duties and 
charges on imports, and are occasionally applied or removed as the need arises.  
5. What measures are 
being taken to reduce 
the surcharges?  Import surcharges are considered as other duties and charg es 
and are occasionally applied and/or removed. The surcharge is 
applied to all trading partners and the rate is far below the pre -
2007 level of forty percent (40%)  
 
Trinidad and Tobago’s imposition of import surcharges is done 
in accordance with our commi tments as per Article II (1) (b) of 
the GATT and in accordance with our WTO obligations and 
strategic national development priorities. Government’s 
economic diversification policy as it relates to the Non -Energy 
Sector, has placed priority on improving nat ional food security, 
rural development and employment.  6. What criteria is used to 
decide if these 
surcharges apply?  
7. When does Trinidad 
and Tobago expect to 
eliminate the 
surcharges?  
Page 93 – Paragraph 4.51  
Between October 2016 and October 2018, several initiatives were embarked upon to address 
illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These include: submitting draft updated 
fisheries management legislation in June 2018; and establishing a Cabinet -appointed committee 
to finalize and  initiate the implementation of an Action Plan to address IUU fishing in the ports 
and waters under the jurisdiction of Trinidad and Tobago. The MALF, through its Fisheries Division, 
regularly participates in meetings of the Western Central Atlantic Fisher y Commission and the 
Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism Regional Working Group on IUU Fishing. Trinidad and 
Tobago also participated in the FAO Regional Port State Measures (PSMA) and complementary 
international instruments and regional mechanisms with  a view to preventing, deterring, and 
eliminating IUU fishing. In September 2018, a national workshop was held to identify current 
efforts, gaps and needs in relation to improved fisheries monitoring, control, surveillance and 
enforcement.  
8. Can Trinidad and 
Tobago share 
information on the 
effects and results 
from these initiatives?  The initiatives undertaken to address IUU Fishing has resulted 
in increased awareness and understanding of the IUU fishing 
problem in the region as well as increased c apacity, measures 
and instruments for preventing, deterring and eliminating IUU 
fishing. One of the major outcomes has been a Draft Fisheries 
Management Bill (DFMB), which is expected to replace the 
Fisheries Act of 1916.  
In January 2019, the Cabinet of t he GORTT approved the Final 
Report and Recommendations of the IUU Fishing Committee 
which included: the signing of a multi -agency Memorandum of 
Understanding (MOU) for collaboration in regulating fishing, 
fishing -related activities and relevant trade; and the WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 32 - 
 
  MEXICO  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
engagement of third states whose fishing vessels utilize waters 
and ports of Trinidad and Tobago towards negotiation of MOUs 
for collaboration in combatting IUU fishing.  
9. Could Trinidad and 
Tobago provide 
information on 
initiatives and policies 
designed to address 
MSMEs -related 
considerations when 
drafting new 
regulations or 
legislation; and any 
efforts to mitigate 
effects of regulatory 
action on MSMEs?  The development of the MSMEs is a priority for the GORTT. 
However, Trinidad and Tobag o does not specifically consider 
initiatives and policies that relate to MSME’s when drafting new 
regulations or legislation.  
10. Could Trinidad and 
Tobago provide 
information on MSMEs -
targeted programs, 
policies, or initiatives 
that promote the 
participation of MSMEs 
in the domestic 
economy and that 
support their 
participation in 
international trade and 
investment; and any 
evaluations on the 
results of such efforts?  Over the period under review, several programmes were 
launched which were geared towards promoting business 
activity through MSMEs in the domestic economy and by 
extension their participation in international trade and 
investment.  
These programmes included:  
A. Training  
1. Training programmes under the National Entrepreneurship 
Develop ment Company (NEDCO) in areas such as but not 
limited to:  
• Strategies for Success  
• Record -Keeping & Cash Management  
• Basic Business Skills  
• Marketing for SMEs  
• Importing and Exporting  
• Effective Management Techniques  
• Stock Control and Promotion  
• Characteristics of Entrepreneurs  
• Total Quality Management  
• A to Z of Running a Small Business  
 
2. ProNet - This is a practical skills training programme for 
small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to provide business 
development and export  marketing training based on their own 
resources.  
3. Business Development Programme (Export Capacity Building 
Programme) - geared towards building export capacity and 
competitiveness for local existing and potential exporters 
within Trinidad and Tobago th rough exporter training programs 
and funding through co -financing facility.  
 
B. Policies/Programmes/Incentives Funds  
 
1. Grant Fund Facility – The Grant Fund Facility (GFF) - Provides 
grants to producers for the acquisition of plant, equipment and 
machine ry.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 33 - 
 
  MEXICO  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
2. Research and Development Facility – The Research and 
Development Facility (RDF) - Provides financial support to the 
non-energy manufacturing and services sectors with the aim of 
stimulating and supporting investment in new and advanced 
technology a nd innovation as a competitiveness enhancement 
tool. 
3. Co -financing Facility under exporTT - This incentive allows 
companies to benefit from reimbursements for a portion of the 
costs associated with entry into selected export markets. These 
incentives supp ort entrepreneurship and innovation in the 
business community by allowing firms to increase economic 
activity and exports thereby earning foreign exchange.  
11. Could Trinidad and 
Tobago provide 
information on gender -
targeted programs, 
policies, or initiatives 
that promote the 
participation of women 
in the domestic 
economy and that 
support their 
participation in 
international trade and 
investment; and any 
evaluations on the 
results of such efforts  To promote the participation of women in the domestic  
economy, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago developed a 
National Policy on Gender and Development – A Green Paper 
(2018). This policy provides a framework for including gender 
perspectives in all activities of government and civil society, 
thereby prom oting the full and equal participation of men and 
women in the development process.  
The overall goal of this National Policy is to promote gender 
equality and equity, social justice and sustainable development 
in Trinidad and Tobago. With respect to the m acro economy 
and trade, the policy objective identified is “To promote the 
equitable sustainable socio -economic development of men and 
women, forging links between economic policy and gender 
planning so as to transform the goals of macro -economic policy 
to include dimensions of equality and social justice.”  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 34 - 
 
  CHILE  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
2.3.2.2 Bilateral RTAs - Paragraph 2.19, p. 33 - 34 
"During the period under review, the new Partial Scope Trade Agreement entered into force 
between Trinidad and Tobago and Panama, and a partial scope RTA was signed with Guatemala 
(Table 2.6). These agreements contain provisions on the future liberalization of trade in services 
and trade facilitation. The agreement with Panama has not yet been notified to the WTO. A partial 
scope agreement has been finalized with El Salvador but has not yet been signed, pending the 
completion of the internal approval process. A trade agreement between Trinidad and Tobago and 
Chile is also being negotiated "  
Table 2.6 bilateral RTAs signed by Trinidad and Tobago  
1. In relation to the 
information on the 
Regional Trade 
Agreements (RTAs) 
indicated in paragraph 
2.19 and Table 2.6 (RTAs 
between Trinidad and 
Tobago and non -CARICOM 
countries), Chile would be 
grateful to Trinidad and 
Tobago for more 
information on the 
internal approval and 
entry into force process 
established for the RTAs 
concluded with countries 
that are not part of 
CARICOM. Additionally, 
Chile would be grateful to 
Trinidad and Tobago to 
indicate if the status of 
CARI COM member 
supposes particular 
requirements, or special 
characteristics, in the 
aforementioned processes.  The trading relationship among CARICOM Member States 
is governed by the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC). 
The RTC makes provisions for the negotiat ion of bilateral 
trade agreements by CARICOM Member States with third 
parties. In particular, Article 80 – Coordination of External 
Trade Policy and Article 81 – Deposit of Agreements with 
Third Countries of the RTC outlines the conditions, which 
state tha t bilateral agreements shall inter alia : 
 
a) be without prejudice to their obligations under the 
Treaty; and  
b) prior to their conclusion, be subject to certification by 
the CARICOM Secretariat that the agreements do not 
prejudice or place at a disadvantag e the position of other 
CARICOM States vis -à-vis the Treaty.  
 
Prior to commencement of negotiations with third parties, 
Trinidad and Tobago must notify other CARICOM Member 
States of its intention to enter into negotiations. This is 
normally done at Meetin gs of the Council for Trade and 
Economic Development (COTED), the Regional organ 
responsible for trade and related matters within the 
Caribbean Community. Upon completion of negotiations 
and initialling of the Agreement, it is submitted to the 
CARICOM Secr etariat (the administrative organ of the 
Caribbean Community) for comments by other CARICOM 
Member States. Based on the comments received, there 
may be amendments to the agreement, as certification by 
the CARICOM Secretariat is to ensure that agreements 
concluded with third parties do no prejudice or place at a 
disadvantage the position of other CARICOM States.  
 
Following CARICOM certification, Cabinet approval is 
required for the formal signing and preparation of national 
legislation to give effect to the Agreement.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 35 - 
 
  BRAZIL  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 46 (Para. 3.22)  
Para 3.22 states that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago indicated in 2012 that it would 
abolish import surcharges. Nevertheless, in 2013 new import surcharges on nine poultry tariff 
headings were introduced. Furthermore, Table 3.5 of the Secretariat report shows that beet sugar 
and cane sugar have surcharges above the MFN tariff. In that regard, please answer:  
1. What are the reasons for 
the new import surcharges 
on poultry introduce d in 
2013?  The GORTT through Cabinet approved the introduction of 
a fifteen percent (15%) import surcharge on selected 
poultry and poultry products, implemented as a necessary 
proactive measure to reduce the vulnerability of the local 
poultry industry and to promote its continued 
sustainability, growth and viability. This is in direct keeping 
with Government’s economic diversification policy as it 
relates to the Non -Energy Sector, specifically with regard 
to improving national food security, rural developme nt and 
employment. This rate is far below the pre -2007 level of 
forty percent (40%). Trinidad and Tobago’s imposition of 
import surcharges is done in accordance with our 
commitments as per Article II (1) (b) of the GATT and in 
accordance with our WTO oblig ations and strategic 
national development priorities.  
2. How do the beet sugar and 
cane sugar surcharges 
above the MFN tariff 
comply with the relevant 
provisions of the GATT and 
the Schedules of 
Concession?  This anomaly will be brought in line with our multilateral 
obligations.  
 
3. When does the 
Government of Trinidad 
and Tobago intend to 
abolish all import 
surcharges  
 Trinidad and Tobago has progressively reduced and/or 
removed import surcharges and remains committed to 
review of same in accordance wit h strategic national 
development priorities.  
Page 51 – Paragraph 3.40  
This Paragraph mentions that both automatic non -automatic import licences are granted on an 
MFN basis, except for oils and fats.  
4. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
inform the criteria utilized 
for granting an import 
licence to oils and fats? 
Why are those import 
licenses for oils and fats 
not granted on an MFN 
basis?  Trinidad and Tobago, utilizes both automatic and non -
automatic licenses which are granted on an MFN basis. 
Autom atic licenses are used mainly for statistical 
purposes, while non -automatic licenses are used as a 
monitoring and control mechanism, including ensuring 
compliance with trade agreements, health and safety 
standards, national security, and environmental 
standards.  
 
The criteria used for granting an Import License for Oils 
and Fats are premised on the provisions outlined in the 
Revised Treaty of Chaguramas which was established for 
the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) inclusive of the 
CARICOM Single Market and Ec onomy (CSME).  
5. Does T&T practice any 
import -licensing 
procedure for reasons 
other than SPS or TBT Yes, an import licence must be obtained from the Trade 
Licence Unit of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, prior to 
the shipment of any item on the import negative list to 
Trinidad and Tobago.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 36 - 
 
  BRAZIL  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
reasons, where approval is 
not granted in all cases, or 
may the approval either be 
granted on a discretionary 
basis or require specific 
criteria to be met before it 
is granted?  Furthermore, according to the Trade Ordinance No. 19 of 
1958, Negative List, Notice to Importers No. 1 of 1999, the 
following are some other items which require Import 
Licenses for reasons other than SPS or TBT (for example 
compliance with trade agreements, health and safety 
standards, natio nal security, and environmental 
standards):  
a. Road motor vehicles —left hand drive vehicles imported 
under section 45 (2) (4) of the Customs Act, Chapter 78.01 
as amended; used right hand drive vehicles  
b. Paper for wrapping tobacco or cigarettes  
c. Para thion, ethyl  
d. Dichlorodiphenyl —trichloroethane (DDT)  
e. Ethylene dibromide (EDB)  
f. Pentachlorophenol (PCP)  
g. Thallium and its salts  
h. Ships and boats (under 250 tonnes)  
i. Alrin, dieldrin and endrin  
j. Trichlorophenyl  
k. chlorodimeform  
l. Dibromochloropropane (DBCP)  
m. Lead arsenate  
n. Ships and boats (under 250 tons)  
Page 54 – Paragraph 3.55  
Paragraphs 3.55 to 3.57 describe Free -Trade zones’ activities and benefits existing in Trinidad 
and Tobago. In that regard, p lease answer:  
6. Is there any geographical 
restriction for the 
designation of free -trade 
zones by the Trinidad and 
Tobago Free Zones 
Company Ltd (TTFZ)? Is 
the TTFZ allowed to 
designate any location in 
Trinidad and Tobago as a 
free-trade zone?  There are no geographical restrictions on Free Zones. The 
TTFZ can designate any location in Trinidad and Tobago as 
a FTZ.  
7. Will the Special Economic 
Zone (SEZ) Act mentioned 
in para. 3.57 contain any 
such geographical 
restriction for the 
designation of free -trade 
zones by the TTFZ?  The new SEZ regime intends to have no such geographical 
restrictions.  
Page 66 (Para. 3.99)  
Para 3.99 states that the Animals (Importation) Control Regulations and other regulations contain 
the conditions that m ust be met for importing animals into Trinidad and Tobago. Article 13 of the 
Animals (Importation) Control Regulations prohibits the importation of cattle, sheep or goat 
except if such animal “is imported directly from one of the countries specified in Fou rth Schedule” 
of the Regulations. In that regard, please answer:  
8. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
clarify the reasons behind 
the restriction contained 
in Article 13 of the The restrictions contained in  Article 13 of the Animals 
(Disease and Importation) Act Chapter 67:02, 1954 are to 
prevent the introduction of animal diseases that would 
compromise the Animal Health Status of local livestock and WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 37 - 
 
  BRAZIL  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Animals (Importation) 
Control Regulations? How 
does that restriction 
comply with the relevant 
provisions of the SPS 
Agreement?  to ensure that meat and meat products imported into 
Trinid ad and Tobago are safe for human consumption and 
do not present a health risk. Under the Sanitary and 
Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement, WTO members have the 
right to adopt sanitary measures necessary to protect 
human, animal or plant life or health.  
9. What are the criteria 
utilized for including a 
country in the Fourth 
Schedule of the Animals 
(Importation) Control 
Regulations?  
 The criteria for inclusion of a country in the Fourth 
Schedule of the Animals (Importation) Control Regulations 
is the conduct of a Risk Assessment of that country to 
determine its eligibility to export such products to Trinidad 
and Tobago, which is in accordance with international 
standards and guidelines.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 38 - 
 
  CHINA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 8 - Paragraph 3  
“Additionally, Trinidad and Tobago released an Aid for Trade Strategy, as well as sector -specific 
policies to: develop e -commerce; create a modern special economic zones regime; encourage 
ICT development; reinvigorate the yachting industry; and build a mor e robust national quality 
system.”  
1. Please provide detailed 
information on the 
creation of a modern 
special economic zones 
regime mentioned in the 
Aid for Trade Strategy.  In March 2017, Cabinet approved the Special Economic 
Zones Policy for Trinidad and Tobago, and also established 
an Inter -Ministerial Committee to lead the implementation 
of said Policy, which includes the designation of different 
types of special economic zones throughout Trinidad and 
Tobago.  
 
The specific goals of this prop osed National SEZ Policy are: 
to modernize Trinidad and Tobago’s economic/free zone 
regime; to increase the economic and social impact of 
economic zones in Trinidad and Tobago; to enhance the 
international appeal of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic 
zone regi me; and to improve existing and advance new 
mechanisms and procedures to effectively develop and 
manage economic zones. A copy of the Policy can be 
accessed at: https://tradeind.gov.tt/sez -policy -trinidad -
tobago/ . 
To ensure that the SEZ Policy is consistent with 
international best practice and the obligations and 
considerations of the Organization for Economic 
Cooperation and Development’s (OECD’s) Base Erosion 
and Profit Shifting (BEPS) In clusive Framework and the 
European Union’s Code of Conduct Group (EU CoCG) are 
adhered to, the Government is currently developing the 
details of the SEZ legislation and incentives to replace the 
current Free Zones Act.  
2. Is there an existing 
framework for the 
establishment of a new 
special economic zones 
regime? If so, please 
elaborate.  The Government has already developed the SEZ Policy for 
Trinidad and Tobago and is currently developing legislation 
to replace the current Free Zones Act. A co py of the Policy 
can be accessed at: https://tradeind.gov.tt/sez -policy -
trinidad -tobago/ . 
3. Please elaborate on the 
incentives for food and 
beverage industries.  Some of the main incentives provided to all manufacturers 
and agro -processors within the food and beverage industry 
are:  
1. Fiscal Incentives  
Exemption from:  
- Customs duties on the construction of an approved 
project;  
- Value Added Tax; and  
- Income tax on dividends or other distribution, other than 
interest, out of profits or gains derived from the 
manufacture of the approved product during the tax 
holiday period.  
 
2. Import Duty Concessions  
Exemptions from Customs Duties on raw materials, 
machinery and equipment and in some cases packaging WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 39 - 
 
  CHINA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
material based upon the provisions of the Third Schedule 
of the Customs Act, Chapter 78:01 (as amended).  
 
3. Allowances to the manufacturing sector  
Where a pe rson carrying on a trade incurs capital 
expenditure on the provision of machinery or plant for the 
purposes of that trade, there shall be made to him, for the 
year of assessment in the basis period for which the 
expenditure is incurred, an allowance (refer red to as “an 
initial allowance”) equal to 90% of the expenditure 
incurred in the provision of machinery and plant for the 
purposes of that trade.  
 
4. Agro Processing Rebates include : 
- Agro Processing facilities refurbishment 50% of cost 
up to a maximum of $20 ,000 
- Agro Processing facilities establishment 50% of cost 
up to a maximum of $50,000  
- Packaging material cost per year 50% of cost up to a 
maximum of $15,000  
- HACCP upgrade 40% of cost up to a maximum of 
$40,000  
 
Page 78, Paragraph 3.156  
“In addition, the authorities indicated that the Cabinet approved the accession of Trinidad and 
Tobago to the following WIPO treaties and conventions.  c. Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual 
Performers;  
4. Please provide more 
information on the 
Cabinet’s approval for the 
accession of Trinidad and 
Tobago to Beijing Treaty 
on Audiovisual 
Performers. Has Trinidad 
and Tobago completed all 
the domestic procedures 
for joining the Treaty, and 
when will Trinidad and 
Tobago officially file its 
instrument of accession to 
WIPO?  The Cabinet of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago 
gave approval for the accession of Trinidad and Tobago to 
the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances in 2018. 
To give full effect to the provisions of the Beijing Treaty, 
amendm ents to the Copyright Act, Chap. 82:80 are being 
drafted.  
Page 97, Para 4.36  
“The Government has, or intends to, address these challenges through: fiscal reform in order to 
boost government revenue.”  
5. What kind of fiscal policies 
or measures has been 
taken by the Government 
with regard to private 
enterprises, especially the 
foreign invested oil -gas 
enterprises?  The GORTT has conducted a review of the fiscal 
arrangements for the energy sector with the view of 
ensuring a fair sharing of the economic  rents and the 
sustainability of an attractive and competitive fiscal regime 
for investors. In particular, a royalty tax of 12.5% was 
introduced for 2018 for crude oil produced and natural gas 
sold. WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 40 - 
 
  CHINA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 97, Para 4.64  
“Renewed efforts are also being made to enhance local content, local participation and local 
ownership in the energy sector. The Permanent Local Content Committee (PLCC), which was first 
set up in 2004 and ceased operating in 2 . 
6. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
please introduce the 
measures  taken to 
“enhance local content, 
local participation and 
local ownership in the 
energy sector”? Do the 
measures treat foreign 
invested enterprises 
equally?  "Some of the main measures introduced/taken to enhance 
local content, local participation and local  ownership in the 
energy sector, are included in the following four (4) key 
documents:  
1. The Local Content and Local Participation Policy 
Framework (2004)  
2. The Petroleum Act and Regulations (1969)  
3. The Deepwater Depth Model Production Sharing 
Contrac t (2013)  
4. The Public Procurement & Disposal of Public Property 
Act (2015)  
 
The Local Content and Local Participation Policy 
Framework (2004) was introduced by the Government of 
Trinidad and Tobago, to enhance local content, local 
participation and local ownership in the energy sector, in 
a bid to maximise the value for the country from its assets.  
 
The Deepwater PSC Model contracts were introduced for 
each level of depth of off -shore field and for onshore fields 
and include detailed local content provisions in line with 
the Local Content and Local Participation Policy 
Framework.  
 
The Public Procurement & Disposal of Public Property Act 
(2015) is an Act to provide for public procurement, and for 
the retention and disposal of public property, in 
accordance with the principles of good governance, 
namely accountability, transparency, integrity and value 
for money, the establishment of the Office of Procurement 
Regulation, the repeal of the Central Tenders Board Act, 
Chap. 71:91 and related matters.  
 
In addition, amendments were made to the Petroleum Act 
and Regulations to support local content.  
 
All foreign enterprises are treated equally.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 41 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Section 2.3.2.1 – Paragraph 2.12  
In St Ann’s Declaration, signed in December 2018, The CARICOM Member States have reiterated 
their willingness to fully implement the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) within three 
years.  
1. What would 
be the next 
steps for 
Trinidad and 
Tobago and 
more broadly 
for CARICOM 
to ensure the 
full 
implementati
on of the 
CSME?  In the St. Ann’s Declaration, CARICOM Member States “committed to take 
action at the national level to advance the regional integration agenda” 
and “agreed that those Member States so willing would move towards f ull 
free movement within the next three (3) years”. In order for Trinidad and 
Tobago to commit to such an undertaking, further legislative amendment 
would be required. This amendment would go beyond permitting free 
movement to the designated categories of skilled workers to include all 
nationals of CSME -participating CARICOM Member States. Changes to all 
the attendant regulations governing privileges extended to nationals, as 
it relates to CARICOM nationals would also be necessary.  
2. Will all the 
CARICOM 
Member 
States be 
eventually 
part of the 
CSME?  While membership in the CSME is open to all CARICOM Member States, 
it is not likely that all CARICOM Member States will eventually be part of 
the CSME. The Bahamas has already indicated definitively, th at they do 
not intend to be a part of the CSME. Further, while Montserrat has 
expressed an interest in becoming a part of the CSME, as an overseas 
territory of the United Kingdom, such a decision ultimately lies with the 
United Kingdom.  
Section 2.3.2.1.2 – Paragraph 2.15 to 2.19  
We note that the Public Procurement Chapter of the CARIFORUM -EU EPA includes an article on 
cooperation.  
3. What are 
Trinidad and 
Tobago's key 
priorities for 
cooperation?  Trinidad and Tobago’s key priorities for cooperation under the Public 
Procurement Chapter of the CARIFORUM – EU EPA is to have dialogue 
and discussion on the experience and information about best practices 
and regulatory frameworks. Trinidad and Tobago’s Public Procurement 
and Disposal of Public Property Act has been partially proclaimed.  
4. Trinidad and 
Tobago has a 
bilateral 
regional 
trade 
agreement 
(RTA) with 
Panama that 
has not yet 
been notified 
to the WTO 
and finalized 
an RTA with 
El Salvador.  In respect of the Agreement with Panama, the matter of notification will 
be addressed at the first sitting of the Joint Administration Commission 
established under the Agreement. With respect to El Salvador, this 
Agreement is subject to the approval of the GORTT.  
5. With the 
exception of 
Panama and 
El Salvador, 
since the last 
Trade Policy 
Review in 
2012, has 
Trinidad and 
Tobago Since the last Trade Policy Review in 2012, Trinidad and T obago 
completed negotiations and signed a partial scope trade agreement with 
Guatemala. This Agreement has not yet entered into force. In addition, 
Trinidad and Tobago as a member of CARIFORUM, has signed an 
agreement with the United Kingdom in the event t hat the United Kingdom 
exits the European Union.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 42 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
signed or 
been 
negotiating 
new 
preferential 
or regional 
trade 
agreements 
that have not 
yet been 
notified to 
the WTO?  
6. To what 
extent could 
a Member 
State of 
CARICOM 
negotiate 
bilateral 
regional or 
free trade 
agreement 
and what 
could be the 
scope of such 
an 
agreement?  
Through 
CARICOM, 
Trinidad and 
Tobago has a 
preferenti al 
access to the 
European 
Union and 
several Latin -
American 
countries.  The Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) makes provisions for the 
negotiation of bilateral trade agreements by CARICOM Member States 
with third parties. In particular, Article 80 – Coordination of External 
Trade Policy and Article 81 – Deposit of Agreements  with Third Countries 
of the RTC outlines the conditions, which state that bilateral agreements 
shall inter alia : 
 
a) be without prejudice to their obligations under the Treaty; and  
b) prior to their conclusion, be subject to certification by the CARICOM 
Secretariat that the agreements do not prejudice or place at a 
disadvantage the position of other CARICOM States vis -à-vis the Treaty.  
 
There is no limitation on the scope of such bilateral agreements in the 
RTC. 
7. Through 
CARICOM, 
Trinidad and 
Tobago has a 
preferential 
access to the 
European 
Union and 
several Latin -
American 
countries.  
Since the last 
Trade Policy 
Review in 
2012, has 
CARICOM 
been 
negotiating 
or signed Since the last Trade Policy Review, Trinidad and Tobago as part of 
CARIFORUM negotiated and signed an Economic Partnership Agreement 
(EPA) with the United Kingdom (UK). The CARIFORUM -UK EPA aims to 
preserve the Region’s preferential trading relationship with the UK, in 
light of the UK’s departure from the European Union. The Agreement was 
signed by Trinidad and Tobago in April 2019 and will be notified to the 
WTO in due course.  
 
CARICOM had also engag ed in negotiations with Canada for a Trade and 
Development Agreement, however these negotiations were suspended in 
May 2015.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 43 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
new 
preferential 
or regional 
trade 
agreements 
that have not 
yet been 
notified to  
the WTO?  
If Yes: Have 
the final 
texts been 
made public?  
8. Is there a 
common 
position 
among the 
CARICOM 
Member 
States to 
negotiate 
new free 
trade 
agreements 
in the 
upcoming 
years?  
If Yes: Would 
they be 
comprehensi
ve 
agreements 
including 
goods, 
services, 
investment, 
government 
procurement, 
intellectual 
property 
rights and 
environment
al protection?  At this time, there is no common position among CARICOM Member 
States to negotiate free tr ade agreements in the upcoming years.  
Section 3.1.3.2 – Paragraph 3.18  
9. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
provide an 
update on 
this process? 
What steps 
are being 
taken to 
reduce the 
applied 
tariffs in 
question in 
order to Trinidad and Tobago is addressing this concern at the regional level. As 
Trinidad a nd Tobago seeks to fulfil its obligations at the multilateral level, 
it is engaged in dialogue with its CARICOM partners to minimise any 
adverse impact on the Regional arrangement from its actions. It is 
expected that this matter will be rectified in the s hort term.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 44 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
comply with 
WTO tariff 
bindings?  
10. Could 
Trinidad and 
Tobago 
provide 
details on the 
criteria and 
mechanisms 
used to 
determine 
what 
products are 
included on 
this list and 
under what 
circumstance
s the applied 
tariffs are to 
be raised 
within the 
bound limits?  List C of the CARICOM CET is a list of items for which minimum rates of 
duties are set and CARICOM Member States are allowed to vary their 
applied rates of duties within the bound levels. Among the products 
included in this list are products that are important from a ta x revenue 
perspective such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, gasoline, jewellery, and 
motor vehicles etc. The list of products are determined by CARICOM 
Member States.  
 
Applied tariffs can be altered, within the bound limits, to implement policy 
objectives of Member States.  
11. Could 
Trinidad & 
Tobago share 
what 
percentage of 
Trinidad and 
Tobago’s 
total value of 
contracts is 
awarded 
under its 
SMEs 
preference 
system?  This measure is no longer in effect.  
12. Can Trinidad 
& Tobago 
provide 
further 
information 
on its 
selective 
tendering 
method? For 
example, is it 
opened to 
foreign 
suppliers? 
Under which 
circumstance
s does the 
Central 
Tenders 
Board use the 
selective Yes, it is open to foreign sup pliers.  
Selective tendering can be utilized under varied circumstances. For 
example, at Section 20(A) of the Central Tenders Board Ordinance there 
are instances where the Central Tenders Board would use the selective 
tendering process.  
 
20(A). (1) Notwith standing the provision of section 20(1), the 
Government may act on its own behalf where :- 
(a) as a result of an agreement for technical or other co -operation 
between it and the Government of a foreign state, the latter designates 
a company to supply the ar ticles or to be undertake the works or any 
services in connection therewith;  
 
(b) the articles or works or any services in connection therewith are to be 
supplied or undertaken by a company which is wholly owned or controlled 
by a foreign state;  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 45 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
tendering 
method?  (c) it enters into a contract with the National Insurance Development 
Company Limited or a company which is wholly owned by the state, for 
the supply of articles or for the undertaking of works or services in 
connection therewith;  
 
(d) it enters into a contract w ith a company for the purchase of books for 
official purposes;  
 
(e) as a result of the occurrence or anticipation of flooding, hurricane, 
landslide, earthquake or other natural disasters, the Minister is of the 
opinion that an emergency situation has arise n in any part of Trinidad 
and Tobago, the abatement, prevention or alleviation of which 
necessitates the obtaining of articles or the undertaking of immediate 
works or services by the Government;  
 
(f) items and services listed in the Third Schedule are app roved by the 
Minister as being required for the purposes of the Trinidad and Tobago 
Defence Force or for the protective services."  
Section 3.3.7.1 – Paragraph 3.134  
Canada notes that per the Secretariat Report, under the previous review, the main change t o 
Trinidad and Tobago's legislative framework on intellectual property (IP) rights has been the 
promulgation of a new Trademarks Act 2015.  
13. Does Trinidad 
and Tobago 
anticipate 
further 
updates to its 
IP regime 
during the 
next review 
period?  There are several updates to the national IP regime underway. The 
promulgation of the Trademarks Act, 2015 will be completed after the 
Trademark Regulations, 2019 are laid Parliament this year, which will 
allow the legislation to be proclaimed. Amendments are be ing drafted for 
the Copyright Act, Chap. 82:80 that will give full effect to the provisions 
of the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances and the Marrakesh 
Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, 
Visually Impaired or O therwise Print Disabled. The process for the new 
amendments to come into force is expected to be completed in the latter 
part of 2019. There are also plans to accede to the Rome Convention. 
There are also plans to accede to the Hague Agreement on the 
International Registration of Industrial Designs, which will prompt 
amendment to the Industrial Designs Act, Chap. 82:77. Draft 
amendments and policy documents are being formulated by the World 
Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to support the process. 
Accession to the Patent Law Treaty will be supported by draft 
amendments prepared by WIPO which will amend the Patents Act, Chap. 
82:76. The Patents Act will also be amended to incorporate amendments 
pertaining to the TRIPs Agreement and other procedural ch anges. Other 
amendments affect the New Plant Varieties Act, Chap. 82:75 to facilitate 
accession to the 1991 Act of the UPOV (Union for the Protection of New 
Plant Varieties) Convention. Draft amendments and policy guidance are 
being prepared by the UPOV Se cretariat.  
Canada notes that per the chart in the Secretariat Report, the number of trademark registrations 
in 2013 nearly doubled from 2012 registrations for non -residents.  
14. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
provide 
additional 
information 
on its process 
for managing 
a surge in The statistics cited in the source. 
https://www.wipo.int/ipstats/en/statistics/country_profile/profile.jsp?co
de=TT do not reflect national statistics. For the years 2012 and 2013 in 
question, the difference between resident and non -resident trademark 
applications showed declines in both categories:  
 
Trademark Applications 2012  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 46 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
registrations 
in 2013?  Non-resident                     1178  
Resident                             364 
TOTAL                                1542  
15. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
elaborate on 
possible 
reasons for 
the surge in 
registrations 
in 2013 (e.g. 
new 
legislation, 
additional 
resources)?  There was no surge. Please see response to question 14 above.  
Section 3.3.7.2 – Chart 3.4  
Canada notes that per the chart in the Secretariat Report, that there were 0 registrations of 
industrial designs from residents and non -residents in 2015.  
16. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
provide 
additional 
information 
on why there 
may not have 
been 
registrations 
from 
residents and 
non-residents 
on industrial 
designs in 
2015?  The Intellectual Property Office has advised that the statistics cited in the 
Secretariat’s Report is inaccurate. For the ye ar 2015 in question the 
actual statistics were as follows:  
 
Industrial Designs 2015 Applications Grants  
Non-resident   4  
Resident       13 
TOTAL          17 
 
This corrected information has been submitted to WIPO.  
Section 3.3.7.2 – Paragraph 3.145  
Canada notes that per the Secretariat Report, the first geographical indication was filed in Trinidad 
and Tobago in 2017.  
17. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
provide 
additional 
information 
on the 
process for 
the 
application 
and 
registration 
of 
geographical 
indications?  The process to obtain a geographical indication (GI) is quite similar to 
what obtains for trademarks. The GI application process pursuant to the 
Geographical Indications Act is as follows: application, formality 
examination, searc h on Industrial Property Automation System to 
generate a search report and substantive examination. Under substantive 
examination, the GI can be accepted or refused. After, the GI is sent for 
publication and the publication fee is paid by the applicant. Fr om the date 
of publication, there is a three (3) month opposition period in which the 
mark can be opposed. If there is no opposition, the GI is registered and 
a registration certificate is issued by the Office.  
Section 3.3.7.4 – Paragraph 3.151  
Canada not es that per the Secretariat Report, that at the border, the seizure of goods suspected 
to be infringing intellectual property rights must be initiated by rights holders and authorized 
licensees.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 47 - 
 
  CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
18. Can Trinidad 
and Tobago 
provide 
additional 
information 
on the 
process to 
initiate the 
seizure of 
goods 
suspected of 
IP 
infringemen t
? The process for seizure of goods under the Copyright and Trademarks 
Acts is detailed under Section 48 (1) of the Copyright Act. See 
https://rgd.legalaffairs.gov.tt/laws2/Alphabetical_List/lawspdfs/82.80.p
df 
19. Are there 
forms 
available 
online?  The forms for Copyright and Trademark customs procedures are available 
online at 
http://ipotrinbago.com/downloads/Copyright/Copyright_Act.pdf and  
http://ipotrinbago.com/download s/Trademark/Trade_Mark_Act.pdf  
respectively.  
20. Would the 
rights holder 
require a 
local 
presence in 
Trinidad and 
Tobago?  If the rightsholders are not resident in Trinidad and Tobago they would 
be required to have an agent/attorney able to practice in Tri nidad and 
Tobago.  
 
GOVERNMENT REPORT  
CANADA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Question 1: Section 10.2 Maritime Sector  
1. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
provide more information as 
to whether the government 
is providing funding for the 
establishment of the dry -
docking facility in Le Brea, 
and what the anticipated 
size of the facility will be?  The National Infrastructure Development Company 
Limited (NIDCO) entered into a preliminary agreement 
with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) on 
September 7, 2018 for the development of a Dry Docking 
Facility at La Brea.  
 
CHEC will be the lead Contractor (Design & Construction), 
and will provide 30% invest ment into the project as an 
equity partner. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad 
and Tobago (GORTT) will provide the remaining 70% of 
the investment cost.  
 
The Dry Docking Facility at La Brea will comprise two (2) 
Dry Docks each 420m long and 70m wid e. 
 
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
SUMMARY - Pg. 10  
Paragraph 16. "Trinidad and Tobago is not a party, nor an observer, in the Plurilateral Agreement 
on Government Procurement. Public tenders are announced both inside and outside the country 
and are open to all interested parties, regardless of their nationality. Priority is given to SMEs. 
The public procurement system is subject to a major revision, and a new law will repeal and 
replace existing legislation. "  
1. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
expand the system in which 
SMEs are prioritized in 
public tenders? By when 
will the new law be ready?  The share of SMEs in procurement was facilitated under a 
Fair Share Programme. The FairShare Programme was a 
means of facilitating MSE s’ access to public procurement 
by providing solutions to their challenges of limited 
resources and information by leve lling the economic 
playing field and increasing the accessibility to public 
sector contracts through a FairShare web -portal. This 
program me sought to address these issues by:  
• publicizing procurement opportunities,  
• providing a forum for MSEs to market themselves, 
 and 
• offering training for entrepreneurs to improve their 
 skills.  
The Programme has since been discontinued.  
The GORTT is c ommitted to the full proclamation of the 
new Act in the shortest possible timeframe.  
2.3.2 Regional and preferential agreements  
2.3.2.1.2 CARIFORUM -EU Economic Association Agreement (AAE CARIFORUM -EU) – Page 31 - 
Paragraph 2.15  
"The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union and the members of 
CARIFORUM (CARICOM plus the Dominican Republic) was signed in 2008. All parties apply it 
provisionally, except for Haiti; it will enter into force once all the parties have completed  the 
ratification process. The Agreement provides for the liberalization of goods and services and, 
among others, contains provisions on electronic commerce (see below); the competition; public 
procurement; Intellectual property rights; and the protection of the environment. All merchandise 
originating in the CARIFORUM States can be imported into the EU free of customs duties, with 
the exception of those indicated in Annex II of the Agreement (arms and ammunition). Imports 
from the EU into the CARIFORUM Sta tes are exempt from customs duties, except for the products 
indicated in Annex III, which provides for a transition period for the liberalization of products from 
Trinidad and Tobago, which will be carried out in stages until 2033, when 87.9% of its tariff  lines 
must be duty -free. At the end of the transition period, an MFN rate will be applied to 780 tariff 
lines. "  
2. When will the 
implementation of Article 
238 on intra -CARIFORUM 
regional preference begin, 
which includes imports 
originating in the 
Dominican Republic?  At this time Trinidad and Tobago is not in a position to 
state when implementation of Article 230 on intra -
CARIFORUM regional preference under the CARIFORUM -
EU EPA will begin, as this matter is subject to further 
dialogue and consensus within CARIFORUM.  
2.3.2 Regional and Preferential Agreements  
2.3.2.4 Preferential Commercial Agreements – Page 35 - Paragraph 2.22  
"Most merchandise from Trinidad and Tobago is entitled to receive preferential access to the 
United States market within the framework of the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI). Under the 
IWC, Trinidad and Tobago benefits from the preferences granted under t he Economic Recovery 
Act of the Caribbean Basin (CBERA) and from the supplementary benefits provided for in the 
Trade Association Act between the United States and the United States. Caribbean Basin (CBTPA). 
CBERA does not have an expected expiration date,  and in July 2015 the WTO granted an 
exemption that covers the preferences granted under this Law until December 31, 2019. The WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
expected expiration date of the CBTPA is September 2020. During the period 2005 -2017, Trinidad 
and Tobago was systematically the main source of imports from the United States covered by the 
tariff preferences granted under the CBI, among which oil, petroleum products, and petroleum 
products predominated. the methanol. However, the value of imports decreased significantly 
during the period under review. In 2012, the value of US imports from Trinidad and Tobago under 
the provisions of the IWC was almost USD 2,200 million, which represented just over a quarter 
of total imports, and in 2017 this figure fell to almost USD 488 million (jus t over 15% of total 
imports) (figure 2.1)."  
3. After the exemption that 
covers the preferences 
granted under the 
Economic Recovery Act of 
the Caribbean Basin 
granted until December 31, 
2019 expires, Trinidad and 
Tobago plans to implement 
another type of p referential 
access to the market from 
United States?  It is to be noted that Trinidad and Tobago’s preferential 
access to the United States’ market is unilateral in nature 
and the continuation of these preferences is dependent on 
the Government of America a nd is subject to the granting 
of a waiver by the WTO. Trinidad and Tobago will require 
an extension of these preferences,  
 
3.1.1 CUSTOMS PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS AND CUSTOMS VALUATION  
Paragraph 3.1. "The Customs Law and the Customs Regulations establish the rules that govern 
customs procedures in Trinidad and Tobago. The Law was modified twice during the period under 
review, by means of Laws No. 6, of 2013, and No. 7, of 2016. The modifications of 2013 require, 
among other things, th e advance sending of information on passengers and the cargo to the 
Administrator of Customs and Special Taxes by electronic means. According to the 2016 
amendments, new and used electric and hybrid vehicles are exempt from the payment of import 
duties, pr ovided that certain conditions are met, and the import duties applied to compressed 
natural gas systems and their products are reduced to zero. parts and components. The 
Department of Customs and Excise, which reports to the Ministry of Finance, is respons ible for 
the administration of customs procedures. The possibility of creating a tax agency is being 
considered, which would replace the Tax Board and the Customs and Excise Department 
(section  2.2). "  
4. What would be the specific 
taxes to which these types 
of vehicle are subject and 
their percentages or 
amounts?  The following taxes currently apply for new and used 
electric vehicles:  
• New and used Electric vehicles for private from 0 -
159 KW are free of customs import duty, motor vehicle 
tax (MVT)  and VAT.  
• New and used Electric vehicles from 159 KW - 
179KW for commercial use are free from customs import 
duties and MVT but are subjected to VAT of 12.5%.  
• New and used CNG Vehicles less than 1599ccs are 
free of customs import duties, MVT and VAT.  
• New and used CNG Vehicles with an engine size 
excess of 1599cc are subject only to customs import duty.  
• New and used Hybrid vehicles less than 1599cc are 
free of customs import duties, MVT and VAT.  
• New and used Hybrid vehicles for commercial use 
only with an engine size in excess of 1599cc but less than 
or equal to 1999ccs are free of customs import duties, 
MVT and VAT.  
 
3.1.2 RULES OF ORIGIN - P. 43-44 
Paragraph 3.13. "Preferential rules of origin apply to imports from CARICOM members and from 
countries with which Trinidad and Tobago has signed ACR. The main characteristics of the 
CARICOM rules of origin are described in detail in the previous examinatio n. In July 2017, a review WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
of these standards (and the CET) was initiated to assess which revisions should be made in light 
of technological advances and RTAs. An interim report has been published, which is being 
examined by the members of CARICOM."  
5. Is the report on the 
revision of the rules of 
origin being examined by 
CARICOM members aimed 
at renegotiating the rules 
of origin applied to the 
CARICOM member 
countries, making those of 
the region more flexible?  The Study, a Comprehensive Review of the CARIC OM 
Common External Tariff (CET) and the Rules of Origin, 
aims to modernize the Rules of Origin under the Revised 
Treaty of Chaguaramas. It is expected that the revised 
rules arising from the Work Programme will capture 
existing and future production proces ses. A consultant 
was contracted to undertake this project, and the Final 
Report was submitted by the Consultant, and is currently 
being reviewed by the Region for acceptance by Regional 
Ministers of Trade.  
3.1.3 TARIFFS  
3.1.3.2 TARIFF CONSOLIDATIONS - P. 45 
Paragraph 3.18. "In 2018, the applied MFN duties were higher than the bound duties in the case 
of 59 tariff lines, compared to 50 lines in 2011; this can be attributed to the change from HS 2007 
Nomenclature to HS 2012. When its prev ious examination was carried out, Trinidad and Tobago 
explained that, in most cases, when the applied rate was higher than the bound rate, the product 
tariffs in issue were set in accordance with the CET. The authorities have stated that the question 
of discontinued bindings was being considered in the context of the CARICOM and ACS rules of 
origin review.  
6. This situation persists since 
the last Policy Review, in 
2012, at that time 
questioned this aspect and 
Trinidad and Tobago 
explained that: "In the 
cases of products whose 
applied tariff exceeds the 
bound, it is due to the 
adoption of the External 
Tariff Common; and 
identified two options for 
this problem, either 
reducing the applied rate 
(in accordance with 
CARICOM rules) or entering 
into renegotiati ons under 
Article XXVIII. We would 
be interested to know what 
measures have been taken 
since then to remedy and 
resolve this situation?  Trinidad and Tobago is addressing this concern at the 
regional (CARICOM) level as part of the Comprehensive 
Review of th e CARICOM Common External Tariff. A 
consultancy was contracted to undertake this project, and 
the Final Report was submitted by the Consultant, and is 
currently being reviewed by the Region for acceptance by 
Regional Ministers of Trade.   
3.1.3.3 APPLICAB LE TARIFFS - P. 47 
Paragraph 3.19. "Trinidad and Tobago applies the CARICOM CET, with some exceptions (section 
3.1.3.5). In 2018, the average applied MFN tariffs (excluding specific duties) was 9.1%, which 
represented an increase from 8.5% in 2011. Accordi ng to the authorities, this change was due to 
the increase in tariffs with respect to some products. On the basis of WTO sectoral definitions, 
agricultural products are subject to higher average tariffs than non -agricultural products. The 
average MFN tarif fs applied to agricultural products was 17.9% in 2018, while the average for 
non-agricultural products was 7.3% (Table 3.3). The difference between the average of the bound 
rates and the average of the applied MFN rates offers the authorities a considerabl e margin to 
increase tariffs. "  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
7. Does the Government of 
Trinidad and Tobago, as a 
developing country and to 
protect the domestic 
industry against the injury 
caused by imports, in 
addition to using the 
considerable margin to 
increase tariffs, intend to 
implement other 
mechanisms to increase the 
competitiveness of the 
national industry?  The GORTT will avail itself of the measures under the WTO 
Agreement as needed, to support the Agriculture Sector.  
 
The Cabinet of Trinidad and Tobago has approved the 
National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016 -2030 (Vision 
2030) that serves as the policy framework for national 
development planning for the short, medium and long 
terms to the year 2030.  In transforming th e agriculture 
sector the following has been identified: more evidenced 
based approach to decision making; Engender greater 
care for the environment; Institutionalise positive work 
ethic as a result of hard work and productivity; and 
Institutional transform ation which requires strengthening 
oversight and accountability and autonomy of institutions.  
 
The GORTT has placed strategic focus on facilitating 
economic growth and developing downstream activities in 
the agricultural sector.  
Paragraph 3.22.  
The system of import surcharges of Trinidad and Tobago was introduced in 1990 under the 
Miscellaneous Tax Law to grant temporary protection to the goods produced in the country during 
the transition period necessary to complete the tariffication of the commerc ial regime, and it 
remained in force once the process was finished. The rates are applied in addition to other tariffs. 
Although Trinidad and Tobago indicated in its previous review that it intended to abolish these 
surcharges in the near future, it procee ded to apply as of March 2013 new import surcharges to 
nine tariff lines for poultry; According to recent data on imports, the main trading partners 
affected by these measures are Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. In addition, 
Trinidad and Tobago continues to apply to the products listed below the import surcharges that 
were in force during the previous period: fatty goose, duck and graft liver; beet sugar; other 
sugar cane, flavo ured or with added colo urs; and icing sugar."  
8. Why are the import 
surcharges reintroduced? If 
for the specific case of the 
birds of heading 01.05: of 
cock or chicken, these 
charges had been 
eliminated as of December 
2006.  The GORTT approved the introduction of a fifteen percent 
(15%) import surcharge on select ed poultry and poultry 
products. This was implemented as a necessary proactive 
measure to reduce the vulnerability of the local poultry 
industry and to promote its continued sustainability, 
growth and viability. This is in direct keeping with 
Government’s economic diversification policy as it relates 
to the Non -Energy Sector, specifically with regard to 
improving national food security, rural development and 
employment. This rate is far below the pre -2007 level of 
forty percent (40%). Trinidad and Tobago’s imposition of 
import surcharges is done in accordance with our 
commitments as per Article II (1) (b) of the GATT and in 
accordance with our WTO obligations and strategic 
national development priorities.  
3.1.3.9 TAX ON ONLINE PURCHASES - P. 52-53 
Paragraph  3.32. "In October 2016, Trinidad and Tobago introduced the tax on online purchases. 
This has a tax rate of 7% of the customs value (c.i.f.), which is added to other applicable taxes. 
Tax the products that meet all of the following conditions: i) they have  been acquired through an 
electronic transaction; ii) have been imported to Trinidad and Tobago by air transport and have 
been sent to a consumer; and iii) they have entered through a transit shed. This tax does not 
apply to purchases of a commercial or bu siness nature. It aims to better manage the increase in 
foreign exchange outflows due to online purchases, reduce the loss of revenue, and help 
manufacturers and service companies in the country to compete with foreign retail companies. "  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
9. What mechanism is used to 
monitor online purchases 
and at the same time make 
such collection? What is the 
purpose of it?  The Customs and Excise Division is responsible for 
collecting such taxes and for all related monitoring 
mechanisms.  
10. As well as, we would be 
interested to know more 
details about the purpose 
and the collection 
expectations of both 
measures.  An Online Purchase Tax (OPT) was introduced in October 
2016. It is a tax applied to goods and services that have 
been purchased by means of an elec tronic transaction 
imported into T&T by air transportation, consigned to a 
consumer and entered from an express cargo 
consignment. The OPT is applied at a rate of 7% of the 
Customs Value (CIF) of such goods upon entry. All 
platform providers and sellers on  a platform are treated 
equally.  
There is also a provision agreed by the members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), at the 
Eleventh Ministerial Conference of the WTO, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which postpones the 
non-imposition of customs duties on electronic transmissions.  
11. How could the Trinidadian 
authorities explain the 
application of this tax 
charge to online purchases 
and discrimination between 
final consumers and those 
of a commercial or business 
nature?  An Online Purchase Tax (OPT) was introduced in October 
2016. It is a tax applied to goods and services that have 
been purchased by means of an electronic transaction 
imported into T&T by air transportation, consigned to a 
consumer and entered from an express cargo 
consignment. The OPT is applied at a rate of 7% of the 
Customs Value (CIF) of such goods upon entry. All 
platform providers and sellers on a platform are treated 
equally.  
 
There is no discrimination between final consumers and 
those of a commercial or busin ess nature under this 
measure.  
3.1.3.3 APPLICABLE TARIFFS - P.53 
Paragraph 3.34 "In December 2017, the Government introduced an environmental tax on imports 
of used tyres to Trinidad and Tobago; the applied tax rate is TTD 20 per tire. The purpose of this  
tax is to pay for the proper disposal of used tyres."  
12. In this regard, we would be 
interested in knowing more 
details about the purpose 
and the collection 
expectations of both 
measures.  The purposes of this tax are:  
•To cover the cost of proper disposal of used tyres  
•Curb indiscriminate dumping  
•Reduce the carbon footprint in the country  
 
The revenue generated thus far from this measure for 
the period January 2018 to April 2019 amounted to 
TTD 8,491,925.00.  
3.2 Measures That Directly Affect Exports  
3.2.1 Customs Procedures and Requirements - P. 57 
Paragraph 3.49. "The customs requirements with respect to exports from Trinidad and Tobago 
have not changed since the last review. Exporters must complete a customs dec laration form (e -
C82) with the intermediation of a customs agent. User rights are the same as in the case of import 
documentation (TTD 40 in the case of commercial declarations and TTD 10 for all others). 
Exporters must also submit the following documents:  an invoice indicating the price paid at the 
national level, an export license (if required) (Table 3.8), a certificate of origin for goods subject 
to preferential treatment under a free trade agreement (FTA), and a bill of lading or an air waybill. 
These documents must be submitted electronically through the CBCS / ASYCUDA system. As with 
imports, this system is connected to the TTBizLink platform so that exporters can request licenses WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 53 - 
 
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
and certificates of origin from relevant organizations electronically. Certificates of origin for 
exports destined for partners that are part of LAC (including CARICOM) are issued by the National 
Export Facilitation Organization of Trinidad and Tobago (exporTT); the usual rate is TTD 100 per 
certificate. Certificates of origi n for exports required by partners that are not part of LAC are 
issued by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago; The fees that apply 
are TTD 75 per certificate for its members and TTD 100 for non -members. At present, exporters 
have to  collect their certificates of origin in exporTT or in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry 
of Trinidad and Tobago; however, the updates that will be applied to computer programs in the 
future will allow exporters to print them themselves. The approved shi pping documents are 
presented to the customs officer in charge of the shipments at the port of loading, who dispatches 
the shipment for export.49 Certificates of origin for cocoa exports are issued by the Cacao 
Development Society of Trinidad and Tobago. T obago (CDCTT) (section 4.1.3.1). "  
13. In paragraph 3.49 on 
customs procedures, we 
would like to know if it is 
being implemented for all 
the import and export 
sectors, as well as to know 
some of the preliminary 
results of the advantages of 
the implementation, such 
as quantification of cost 
reduction, time, among 
others. In addition to 
knowing if the tool is open 
for use or if some type of 
registration is required to 
use it?  The introduction of electronic platforms for the processing 
of customs d ocumentation and issuance of electronic 
certificate of origin has led to a significant reduction in 
both the cost and time of doing business in Trinidad and 
Tobago. These platforms are for all import and export 
transactions. Users of all electronic systems  must be 
registered users.  
4.5.3.1 Maritime Transportation  
4.5.3.1.1 Transportation – Page 124 -125 - Paragraph 4.131  
"The main law that governs the sector is the Maritime Transport Law (chapter 50.10), whose last 
modification dates from 2007. New amendmen ts to the Law have been prepared. Although the 
sector is still regulated by the Maritime Services Division of the Ministry of Works Public and 
Transport, is considering the possibility of establishing a Maritime Authority as an official body 
with greater a utonomy; it is expected to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the operations 
and functions of the sector. In 2016, the Permanent Committee for the Development of the 
Maritime Sector was established, in charge of supervising the development of the  sector, made 
up of representatives of the ministries and the main companies of the industry. To date, its 
recommendations have resulted in the simplification of documentation requirements and an 
increase in the authorized length of stay of foreign yachts,  in order to attract more yachts to the 
islands. The Maritime Sector Development Committee has ceased to exist. "  
14. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
specify if it would be of a 
military nature, or only 
commercial or mixed?  The Maritime Authority would not be military in nature but 
rather a state enterprise addressing all the commercial 
and non -commercial aspect of shipping.  
4.2.3 Border Measures - P. 102  
Paragraph 4.53 "Import licenses are required for: refrigerated/frozen seafood products (weighing 
more than 10 kg) imported for commercial purposes; raw materials (fish and fishery products) 
for processing; and ornamental fish for personal use. Following a recommendation from the 
Fisheries Division, the MTI issues import licenses. The importation of sea pro ducts of up to 10 kg 
and fish for scientific research requires the permission of the Fisheries Division. The authorities 
have also indicated that, in December 2017, fish from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in 
Trinidad and Tobago could not be imported. "  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
15. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
indicate the reasons for the 
ban on the importation of 
fishery products from St. 
Vincent & The Grenadines?  The GORTT took a decision in 2017 to restrict access to 
Trinidad and Tobago's seaports and restrict landings of 
fish a nd fish products by vessels from St. Vincent and the 
Grenadines. However, the importation of fishery products 
from St Vincent and the Grenadines via airports was not 
restricted.  This decision was directly related to St Vincent 
and the Grenadines being aff orded a "Red card" by the 
European Union Directorate General for Maritime Affairs 
and Fisheries (DG MARE) as having not exercised its 
obligations to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing.  
The GORTT has had to exercise due diligence as a port, 
flag, coa stal and market State.  
4.2.4 Subsidies and Exemptions - P. 103  
16. Can foreign vessels 
registered in Trinidad and 
Tobago and/or with fishing 
permits from that country 
also be beneficiaries of the 
fiscal incentives for the 
commercial fishing sector 
currently offered for the 
importation of fishing 
vessels, engines and 
Fishing arts?  Pursuant to the Archipelagic and Exclusive Economic Zone 
Act, foreign fishing vessels may through an Access 
Agreement be allowed to operate in Trinidad and Tobago’s 
waters.  The terms of these licences granted to foreign 
Fishing vessels are determined through a process of 
negotiation and there is nothing that precludes the GORTT 
from granting access to fiscal incentives to Foreign Fishing 
Vessels as part of this process.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 55 - 
 
  ICELAND  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Trinidad and Tobago is among the 123 WTO members and observers that support the joint 
declaration on women and economic empowerment that was launched on the occasion of the 11th 
Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. The declaration aims inter alia at sha ring best practices 
and working together at the WTO to remove barriers for women’s economic empowerment and 
increase women’s participation in trade.  
1. What is the participation of 
women in the economy in 
Trinidad and Tobago?  The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago estimates that 
the female labour participation rate for 2017 averaged 
49.5%.  
Trinidad and Tobago is among the 123 WTO members and observers that support the joint 
declaration on women and economic empowerment that was launched on the o ccasion of the 11th 
Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. The declaration aims inter alia at sharing best practices 
and working together at the WTO to remove barriers for women’s economic empowerment and 
increase women’s participation in trade.  
2. Have particular barriers that 
limit women’s participation 
in trade been identified?  Due to capacity constraints, Trinidad and Tobago does not 
currently collect gender disaggregated data regarding 
trade, and as such, barriers have not been identified.  
3. Have any particular 
measures to address such 
barriers or encourage 
women’s participation in 
trade and to promote 
women’s entrepreneurship 
been adopted, or are such 
measures being developed?  There are several government initiatives which are 
targeted to pro mote entrepreneurship, however these 
initiatives are not gender specific. Both males and females 
can equally access all programs.  
4. Are there any best practices 
or lessons learned that 
Trinidad and Tobago can 
share with the WTO 
membership that other 
coun tries could learn from 
as regards women’s 
economic empowerment 
and trade?  At this time, Trinidad and Tobago is not in a position to 
share experiences and best practices in this area.  
5. Are the effects of trade 
policy on women and men 
measured and monitor ed, 
and if so how?  Currently, the effects of trade policy are not measured 
according to gender. Trinidad and Tobago is currently in 
the process of drafting its trade policy for the period 2019 -
2023 and it is expected that gender and trade will be a 
new are a of focus.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 56 - 
 
  SINGAPORE  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
1.3.1.2 Direction of trade - Page 19 - Paragraph 1.16  
We note from the Secretariat Report that there have been some changes to Trinidad and Tobago’s 
distribution of trading partners over the years – the share of Asian trading partners has increased 
significantly.  
Summary - Page 10 (Para 15)  
The Secretariat Report states that “The State maintains a significant economic presence, through 
fully or partially state -owned enterprises (SOEs), in the areas of energy, agriculture, 
manufacturing, and services. Many SOEs receive significant subsidies from the Governmen t and 
the Government has been exploring PPP projects to revitalize the loss -making SOEs.”  
1. What are the plans of 
Trinidad and Tobago to 
attract private and/or 
foreign investment in the 
above -mentioned sectors? 
Are foreign investors able to 
participate in these PPP 
projects?  In addition to the attractive investment incentives offered 
by the Government to encourage private and foreign direct 
investment in almost all sectors of the economy, the 
Government aims to provide modern infrastructural 
capacity to attract investors. This  includes the construction 
of two new industrial parks, the Moruga Agro -Processing 
and Light Industrial Park and the Phoenix Park Industrial 
Estate.  
 
Moruga Agro -Processing and Light Industrial Park  
• Promoted to companies involved in agri -business.  
• 18.83 acres of State lands with 5 factory shells 
with individual footprints of 372 square metres.  
The Facility will allow for:  
• The processing of raw materials and intermediate 
products that originate from agriculture, forestry 
and fisheries, including the preser vation of meats, 
fish, fruit and vegetables;  
• The manufacture of food products and the 
conversion of fresh produce into semi -processed 
raw material or processed products, including the 
manufacture of bakery products, pasta products, 
confectionary and starch  products;  
• The manufacture of beverages, wine and the 
blending of spirits; and  
• Facilities for the canning, bottling and freezing of 
finished products.  
Phoenix Park Industrial Estate  
• The Park is being developed as a Public -Private 
Partnership (PPP) with the Government of China.  
• Spans 133 acres with 70 plots ranging in sizes 
between 0.8 and 1.3 acres  
• Contains five (5) factory shells each at 5,000 
square meters  
• This development targets firms in the areas of 
high-value and light manufacturing, 
logistics/ware housing, and emerging industries 
(electronic technology, information technology, 
energy -saving ecological building materials and 
biotechnology).  
Tamana InTech Park (TIP)  
• Construction Completed  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  SINGAPORE  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
The core activities of TIP will be focused around the 
followin g sectors:  
- ICT  
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)  
- Data processing / centres  
- Animation and software development  
- High value manufacturing / assembly  
- Financial Services  
It should be noted that foreign investors are able and 
encouraged to participate in all PPP projects.  
2. How does Trinidad and 
Tobago plan to encourage 
this trend and promote 
trade with Asia?  As outlined in Vision 2030: The National Development 
Strategy of Trinidad and Tobago 2016 -30, the country’s 
foreign po licy is based on four (4) pillars; one of which is 
the deepening of relations with Africa and Asia. To this 
end, Trinidad and Tobago has actively participated in 
discussions with Asian countries, namely through 
diplomatic channels, High Level Foras and Tra de 
Symposiums as well as participation at trade shows and 
expos which promote the country’s products and services 
and provides a framework for deepening commercial 
relations with those Regions. Trinidad and Tobago has also 
sought to facilitate investment f rom Asian countries, 
through the finalization of Bilateral Investment Treaties 
(BITs) and Double Taxation Agreements (DTA) with 
selected countries in those Regions. It is anticipated that 
such efforts will be sustained in the future.  
3.3.6 Government Procurement - Page 72 (Para 3.129)  
The Secretariat Report states that “The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act, 
2015, is to repeal and replace the Central Tenders Board Act (Chapter 72:19). The Act will govern 
procurement by a ll state agencies using public money under a single regulatory framework.”  
3. Will Trinidad and Tobago 
continue with open tenders 
being advertised both 
locally and internationally 
with the new Act?  Yes, Trinidad and Tobago shall continue with open tenders 
being advertised both locally and internationally based on 
the provisions of the new Act.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Paragraph 11 states that "Trinidad and Tobago collects a special consumption tax, which applies 
to domestically produced goods. In the sphere of taxation, the following novelties have been 
registered: VAT reduction from 15% to 12.5%; application of new import surcharges to nine tariff 
items for poultry in 2013; establishment of a uniform 12.5% canon applicable to oi l, gas and 
condensates; unification of corporation tax at 30% for all companies (except for commercial 
banks, which are subject to a rate of 35%); and creation of a tax on online purchases of 7% and 
an environmental tax on tire imports. The Government offe rs a number of incentives to companies 
based in the country. In the presentation of the Budget for 2018, the Minister of Finance proposed 
that certain export reliefs be reintroduced for manufacturers, which has not happened. In 2018, 
EXIMBANK launched the Foreign Exchange Service, with an initial capitalization of USD 100 
million, so that exporters of manufactures could obtain foreign currency. "  
1. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
expand the information on 
the areas or types of 
incentives that companies 
based in the country are 
receiving?  In order to encourage investments in the economy, the 
Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago offers 
incentives to enterprises across all sectors, including 
inter-alia of; manufacturing, agriculture, creative, 
tourism, and energy. The myriad of investment incentives 
can be categorized as fiscal, financial and other. The 
Government, through the Ministry of Finance, has 
published a compendium of the major incentives available 
to all investors and businesses. The p ublication can be 
accessed via the following:  
https://www.finance.gov.tt/wp -
content/uploads/2017/08/MOF -Investment -Incentives -
in-Trinidad -and-Tobago -web.pdf  
 
The publication outlines the description/benefit of each 
incentive and also includes the respective governing 
Legislations.  
 
The information on incentives is captured in the Trinidad 
and Tobago Report by the Secretariat under Section 
3.3.1.2.  
1 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
1.1 Main characteristics of the economy  
In paragraph 1.1 the Secretariat notes that "since the previous Trade Policy Review, held in 2012, 
the economy of Trinidad and Tobago has suffered three years of recession, whose main cause 
has been the episodes of contraction of real economic activity in the energy sector. The results of 
the sector were largely due to the decline in crude oil prices recorded as of 2014. The country 
also experienced disruptions in the energy supply, which aggravated the effects of the fall in 
energy prices. In the period under review, real GDP growth registered an annual average of 
approximately 1% (Table 1.1); the economy contracted in 2014, 2016 and 2017. "  
 
On the other hand, par agraph 1 of the Summary states that "During the period under review, real 
GDP grew on average -1% each year".  
2. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
clarify what is the correct 
number  Over the period 2013 -2017, real GDP contracted by an 
annual average of -1%. 
 
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017  
Real GDP Growth (%) (2000 = 100)1 2.0 -1.0 1.8 -6.5 -
1.9 
 
In addition, economic growth returned to Trinidad and 
Tobago in 2018.  
Source : The Central Statistical Office of Trinidad and 
Tobago  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
2 TRADE AND INVESTMENT REGIME  
2.2 Formulation and objectives of the commercial policy  
Paragraph 2.5 refers to the fact that "the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) remains responsible 
for the formulation of trade and investment policy and the implementation of trade policy. 
Negotiates an d applies the commitments made in the framework of the various trade, economic 
and investment agreements and is responsible for promoting commercial relations with trading 
partners.  
 
Likewise, in section 2.3.2.2 bilateral RTAs, paragraph 2.19, it is indic ated that Trinidad and Tobago 
has signed several bilateral Trade Agreements.  
3. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
indicate whether it requires 
any authorization from 
CARICOM to negotiate a 
bilateral Trade Agreement? 
If you require a CARICOM 
permit, what is the 
procedure and how long 
does it take?  Trinidad and Tobago does not require authorization from 
CARICOM to negotiate a bilateral Trade Agreement. 
However, in practice, Trinidad and Tobago will notify its 
intention to enter into negotiations with a bilateral t rading 
partner. In addition, Under Article 80(3) (b) of the Revised 
Treaty of Chaguaramas, prior to their conclusion, 
agreements must be subject to certification by the 
CARICOM Secretariat that the agreements do not 
prejudice or place at a disadvantage the  position of other 
CARICOM States vis -a-vis the Treaty.  
In table 2.3, Framework, objectives and priorities of Aid for Trade, 2016 -2019, it is established 
as priorities for trade aid to create productive capacity in the sectors selected for diversification .  
4. Trinidad and Tobago is 
asked to expand the 
information, specifically 
which sectors were 
selected and which was the 
methodology of choice.  The sectors earmarked for diversification in Trinidad and 
Tobago’s National Aid for Trade Strategy are as follows:  
- Maritime Services including shipbuilding, ship repair, 
dry-docking, yachting services and marinas, 
transhipment, cold stacking, bunkering, port 
development, special economic zones, maritime logistics 
and open ship registry;  
- Agriculture and agr o-processing;  
- Fishing and Fish Processing;  
- Aviation Services – Aircraft maintenance and repair;  
- The Creative Industries – Film, music, entertainment, 
fashion and design;  
- Financial Services – Making Trinidad and Tobago a 
regional financial centre, a nd 
- Software Design and Applications – Making Trinidad and 
Tobago a technology and innovation centre.  
 
These sectors are identified in Government’s National 
Development Strategy (Vision 2030).  
2.3.2.1.3 CARICOM regional trade agreements  
In table 2.3, Framework, objectives and priorities of Aid for Trade, 2016 -2019, it is established 
as priorities for trade aid to create productive capacity in the sectors selected for diversification.  
Paragraph 2.19 highlights that "CARICOM maintains RTAs (involvin g reciprocal trade 
liberalization) in force with the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Cuba and Costa Rica (Table 2.5). 
Although the Agreement on Trade and Economic and Technical Cooperation between CARICOM 
and Colombia has not yet been incorporated into the l egislation of Trinidad and Tobago, in 1999 
provisional measures were applied to implement the Agreement and the preferences established 
in it. Negotiations on an RTA between Canada and CARICOM were suspended in 2015. CARICOM 
is studying the feasibility of entering into trade agreements with the Central American Common 
Market, members of MERCOSUR and other countries of South America. "  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
5. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
state the reasons why the 
Agreement signed by 
Colombia has not yet been 
incorporated into its 
legislation?  
What is the procedure and 
if this will happen soon? If 
not, can you stop granting 
negotiated tariff 
preferences?  Trinidad an d Tobago has continued to grant preferences 
obligated under the Agreement and significant time has 
been spent transitioning the tariff to the current edition of 
the HS. Trinidad and Tobago proposes to move forward in 
implementing legislation to give perman ent effect to our 
bilateral obligations.  
6. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
indicate which countries of 
South America are you 
exploring to conclude trade 
agreements? What type 
and depth?  The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is currently 
undertaking the necessary technical analysis in this area 
and is engaged in dialogue with a number of countries.  
3.1 Measures that directly affect imports  
3.1.1 Customs procedures and requirements and customs valuation  
In paragraph 3.7 it is mentioned that "approximately 30% to 35% of imports are subject to 
physical inspection, which contrasts with the data of the previous examination (from 20% to 
25%); the authorities indicate that physical inspections are related to risk management and 
national security. T he criteria for selecting the goods that will be subject to inspection are: type 
and value of the goods; goods with high tariff rates; numbers of tariff items that are frequently 
classified incorrectly; repeat offenders; and country of origin. "  
7. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
indicate that the 
percentage of the volume 
of imports subject to 
physical inspection has 
increased with respect to 
the previous examination? 
Does the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement call for the 
implementation of an 
automated risk 
management system, what 
is the progress of Trinidad 
and Tobago in the 
implementation of this 
tool?  The Customs and Excise Division is in the process of 
transitioning to the ASYCUDA 4.2.2 which is equipped with 
a more modern risk management system. In additio n, 
other risk management systems are being explored to 
complement the ASYCUDA 4.2.2.  
3.1.3 Tariffs  
3.1.3.1 Structure  
In paragraph 3.16, Trinidad and Tobago notes that "... the 2018 tariff, based on the HS 2012 
tariff nomenclature, comprised 6,480 tariff l ines at the 8 -digit level, which represented an increase 
with respect to the 6,295 tariff lines of the 2011, based on the HS 2007 Nomenclature ... "  
8. Can Trinidad and Tobago 
indicate if it is in the 
process of adopting the VI 
Recommendation to Amend 
the Harmonized System? Or 
when would I adopt it?  Trinidad and Tobago is a member of CARICOM and shall 
implement the Common External Tariff of CARICOM which 
is based on the 2017 Harmonized System by July 2019.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
3.3.2.1 Standards  
In paragraph 3.73 the Secretariat states that "the Bureau of Standards of Trinidad and Tobago 
(TTBS) remains the national standardization institution, the national quality certification body and 
the national laboratory accreditation body. Its sco pe of competence includes the evaluation of 
conformity, testing, inspection and surveillance of laboratories, and questions of metrology and 
calibration. The TTBS is the national information service provided in the WTO Agreement on 
Technical Barriers to Tr ade (TBT Agreement) and has accepted the Code of Good Practice for the 
Preparation, Adoption and Application of Standards contained in Annex 3 of the TBT Agreement. 
Its competence in the elaboration of voluntary standards and national technical regulations  
(mandatory standards) is set out in the Law on Standards (see below). Other governmental bodies 
competent in setting standards are the following: the Telecommunications Directorate; the 
Division of Chemical, Food and Pharmaceutical Products, of the Minist ry of Health; the 
Occupational Health and Safety Authority; and the Environmental Management Agency of the 
Ministry of Planning and Development. "  
9. Trinidad and Tobago could 
provide more information 
about its experience in the 
revision of current 
techni cal regulations. How 
will good technical 
regulation practices be 
incorporated into the 
National Standardization 
Strategy mentioned in 
paragraph 3.80?  Based on the Standards Act No. 18 of 1997, The Trinidad 
and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) has the mand ate 
to develop voluntary and compulsory standards (the latter 
which are effectively technical regulations).  
Compulsory standards can be developed if there is a need 
to ensure health, safety and environmental protection, as 
well as consumer protection.  
 
Given that TTBS has a regulatory function under the 
Standards Act No. 18 of 1997 to enforce compulsory 
standards, the National Standardization Strategy 
includes:  
• the revision of existing compulsory standards to ensure 
that they are up -to-date; and  
• the development of new compulsory standards.  
 
Also, the National Standardization Strategy has a major 
focus on the development of new voluntary standards 
which can be used to support the work of other regulatory 
agencies and Government Ministries.  
Therefore,  some of the main strategic objectives of the 
National Standardization Strategy are as follows:  
• Promote the adoption of national, regional and 
international standards to support trade and regulatory 
systems in keeping with the principles of Good Regulato ry 
Practices.  
• Encourage regulators to utilize standards to support 
their regulatory framework  
• Develop standards in collaboration with key regulatory 
agencies  
 
The NSS has been developed with the core principle of 
ensuring alignment to the WTO TBT and SPS Agreements. 
One of the main outcomes of the NSS is to avoid or 
minimize technical barriers to trade by the use of 
appropriate and relevant national, regional and 
international standards as the basis for technical 
regulations, to support public policy o bjectives and 
facilitate trade.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Paragraph 3.78 indicates that "in April 2018, the National Quality Policy 2018 -2030 and the 
related application plan were published, which is a first step in the development of a national 
quality system. The Policy was developed as a draft of the National Aid for Trade Strategy, in line 
with the Vision 2030 plan (section 2). It aims to help the business sector of Trinidad and Tobago 
overcome the difficulties of meeting quality requirements and business rules, and thereby  take 
advantage of business opportunities, compete on a global scale, and participate in the chains of 
international value. Among the deficiencies declared to be corrected with the Policy are: the lack 
of national demand for quality infrastructure and the assessment of conformity; the fact that good 
regulatory practices are not systematically adopted; the lack of compliance with mandatory 
regulatory requirements; and capacity limitations, particularly in terms of human resources and 
laboratory space, and th e outdated laboratory equipment. The Policy provides for legislative and 
institutional reforms and promotes the participation of multiple stakeholders and the improvement 
of their organization. "  
10. Colombia is interested in 
obtaining more information 
on the National Quality 
Policy 2018 -2030, which 
was drafted as a draft of 
the National Aid for Trade 
Strategy and is intended to 
help the business sector 
overcome the difficulties 
posed by compliance of 
technical and quality 
prescriptions and thereby 
take ad vantage of 
commercial opportunities 
and compete on a global 
scale. What are the 
structural and legislative 
changes that are foreseen 
to establish the National 
Quality System of Trinidad 
and Tobago?  The implementation of the National Quality Policy will 
enable exporters to meet the demands of the multilateral 
trading system and provide credible proof that products 
conform to international standards. As such, the capability 
of firms to effectively trade on the national, regional and 
international levels will be enhanced.  
One structural change to be undertaken is the 
establishment of a high -level Governance entity – A 
National Quality Council responsible for the strategic and 
operational oversight in the roll -out of Quality related 
policies/work.  
It is anticip ated that the legislative reform will include the 
amendment of several Acts, particularly the Standard Act 
and the Food and Drugs Act, the Animal Act and the Plant 
Protection Act.  
The Policy is available online at: 
https://tradeind.gov.tt/national -quality -policy -tt/ 
11. On the possibility of 
establishing a National 
Committee on Non -Tariff 
Obstacles as a strategy to 
improve compliance with 
the TBT Agreement, 
increase the transparency 
of the measures covered in 
that agreement, promote 
inter -institutional 
cooperation and assist in 
the formulation of 
presentations on technical 
regulations Notified by 
other WTO Member 
countries. Could Trinidad 
and Tobago provide more 
informati on on how this 
national coordination 
mechanism would work to 
address TBT issues?  It is envisaged that when the National Committee on Non -
Tariff Barriers is established, it would comprise 
agencies/ministries and other entities involved with non -
tariff measu res and those with mandates which include 
the development of regulations and adoption of 
standards. There will also be representation from the 
private sector.  
 
The general objective of this Committee is to provide a 
national mechanism for Regulatory Coope ration in order 
to inter alia :  
 Clarify the areas of responsibility by 
ministries/agencies  
 Harmonize the ministries/agencies approach to 
addressing non -tariff measures to identify gaps, minimize 
regulatory overlap and minimize delays in responding to 
queries 
 Analyse notified measures from other WTO 
members in order to determine potential trade restrictive 
effects  
 Formulate a coordinated national position related to 
non-tariff measures and specific trade concerns  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
 Build awareness on Good Regulatory Prac tice (GRP) 
towards furthering compliance with the WTO TBT and SPS 
agreements  
 Educate on transparency requirements and 
obligations and  
 Share experiences and increase networking 
opportunities  
It is proposed that the Ministry of Trade and Industry will 
co-chair with the agencies responsible for implementing 
and administering the WTO TBT and SPS agreements who 
will also contribute by providing technical expertise 
related to the Quality Infrastructure disciplines.  
12. It is mentioned that the 
Bureau of St andards of 
Trinidad and Tobago has 
the authority to elaborate 
voluntary standards and 
technical regulations. 
Colombia is interested in 
obtaining more information 
on the experience of 
Trinidad and Tobago in the 
process of review of 
voluntary standards and 
technical regulations. Has it 
been thought of introducing 
changes in this process, 
such as better technical 
regulation practices such as 
the methodology of the 
Normative Impact?  The process for the development of compulsory standards 
(technical regulations)  is a separate process to the 
development of voluntary standards and follows Good 
Regulatory Practices with respect to the fact that the 
public comment period is 60 days minimum and 
international standards are referenced as far as practical. 
The TTBS consu lts local stakeholders in the development 
of compulsory standards and as an improvement to the 
process, TTBS will reference normative documents using 
the undated methodology to facilitate the automatic 
updating of the standards when the base document is 
updated as far as possible. Another improvement to the 
process is the execution of regulatory impact assessments 
which will be conducted as inputs into the development or 
revision of compulsory standards (i.e. technical 
regulations).  
 
TTBS is in a transition ary period with respect to having 
two distinct processes for the development of compulsory 
standards (i.e. technical regulations) and voluntary 
standards. The new processes are in keeping with the 
principles of Good Regulatory Practices. We expect that in 
2019/2020, the redesigned processes will be fully 
completed and implemented by TTBS.  
Among the modifications introduced in the customs procedures during the period under 
consideration is the advance delivery of information on passengers and cargo. The req uirement 
to use the services of customs agents remains in effect, and now in practice it is mandatory to 
file customs declarations electronically. In addition, in 2012 the Government launched the 
Electronic Single Window System (TTBizLink), which is planne d to be fully implemented by 2021; 
Through the system, individuals and companies can perform various operations online. 
Applications for import and export permits and licenses and requests for concessions with respect 
to import duties and certificates of o rigin are electronic services related to import and export that 
are already in operation. These services have contributed to significantly reduce delivery times. 
However, port inefficiencies have prevented Trinidad and Tobago from improving its internation al 
ranking in terms of cross -border trade. A "voluntary compliance program" has been launched on 
an experimental basis, which allows importers to print freight orders by themselves. 
Approximately 30% to 35% of imports are subject to physical inspection."  
13. Taking into account the 
previous paragraph, it is 
important to know what are 
the improvements that are 
needed to implement in the 
Single Electronic Window?  The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 
(GORTT) as part of its national strategy, in 2009, 
launched the Single Electronic Window (SEW) for Trade 
and Business Facilitation Project, branded as TTBizLink, 
an IT -based trade facilitation solution.  This nationwide 
project arose out of efforts to improve the country’s ease WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 64 - 
 
  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
of doing business, enhance its competitiveness, and instil l 
a culture of excellence in GoRTT. TTBizLink, the first of its 
kind in the Caribbean, is a secure business portal that 
provides 24/7 access to trade and business -related 
government services by allowing parties involved in trade 
and transport to lodge standardized information and 
documents at a single entry point, in order to fulfil import, 
export and transit -related regulato ry requirements.  
 
After three (3) phases of development, and with more 
than six thousand, five hundred (6,500) registered users, 
TTBizLink currently hosts forty -six (46) transactional e -
services administered by twenty four (24) government 
agencies across n ine (9) separate Ministries. TTBizLink 
has substantially reduced the need to send duplicate and 
repetitive information to multiple agencies, improved 
information sharing among government agencies and 
removed many of the inconsistent and fragmented trade 
and business processes which existed.  
 
Despite the successes of TTBizLink, several improvements 
are still required and are being implemented. These 
improvements are related to the following gaps:  
i) the SEW has not achieved full interoperability with 
all the i nformation systems within key logistics 
stakeholders (such as the Port Authority of 
Trinidad and Tobago and the Port of Point Lisas) 
as well as international interoperability with main 
trading partners;  
ii) current operational processes in border agencies 
are not fully in line with international best 
practices and require an in -depth business 
process reengineering to further simplify and 
automate processes;  
iii) current risk management systems in the relevant 
border agencies require improvement; and  
iv) there is curre ntly no electronic payments solution 
on TTBizLink.  
14. Is there or will there be an 
interoperability between 
the authorities of that 
country with the Window?  Currently, there is interoperability between the Customs 
System and Single Electronic Window (which includes the 
other border Agencies).  
15. If so, how will they handle 
this process, the authorities 
all have a system?  Customs utilizes its own system called the Customs 
Border Control System (CBCS) while the Other 
Governmental Border Agencie s utilize the Single 
Electronic Window for trade and Business Facilitation 
(TTBizLink). The two systems are interconnected via 
dedicated metro Ethernet links and communication is 
done via web services.  
"The MTI and the Ministry of Finance are creating an online payment system, which is expected 
to be operational in June 2019. Once the duties and taxes are satisfied, the CBCS sends a set of 
data to the Government's TTBizLink System (see below) so that the relevant government agencies 
can issue t he necessary additional approvals through this system and forward them to the CBCS. 
Importers can request an early customs resolution, which will be binding."  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
16. The above means that the 
Trinidad and Tobago 
Window has 
interoperability with the 
customs of  that country?  Yes. 
17. How did they achieve this 
process?  This was achieved, through an amendment to the 
Customs Act in 2013 to allow for the electronic sharing of 
data and trade documentation (excluding tax information) 
between the border agencies.  
18. How many services are 
needed to be implemented 
to have the entire foreign 
trade operation online?  The majority (90 -95%) of critical trade processes are 
already online.  
"Electronic services related to imports that are already operational are the request for concessions 
with respect to import duties and the request for import permits and licenses to all relevant 
agencies (the MTI Commercial Licensing Unit; Standards of Trinidad and Tobago (TTBS), the Plant 
Quarantine Service of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Fisheries, and the Animal Health and 
Chemical, Food and Pharmaceutical Division of the Ministry of Health). " The TTBizLink calculates 
the applicable fees, but online payment cannot be made now.  
The deadline to obtain  import and export permits has been reduced from 4 weeks to 1 day  
19. Regarding the times of the 
request for permits and 
import licenses to all 
relevant agencies, as is this 
process, that is, do they 
have regulations that 
indicate how long the 
entities have to close these 
requests?  The processing times of these permits and licenses are 
usually undertaken in 1 -2 business days and are based on 
internal departmental service standards.  
20. On the other hand, how is 
the application review 
process, o nline?  Yes, the application review process is online.  
21. Or do officials have to 
check several databases 
manually?  The process is undertaken almost entirely electronically in 
most agencies.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 66 - 
 
  THAILAND  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
1. Would Trinidad and Tobago 
please explain how the 
mechanism of online 
purchase tax collection 
works? Are there any 
different requirements on 
the concerned tax collection 
between local and foreign 
sellers who do not have 
commercial presence in 
Trinidad and Tobago? Would 
platfo rm providers be 
treated differently from 
sellers on a platform?  An Online Purchase Tax (OPT) was introduced in October 
2016. It is a tax applied to goods and services that have 
been purchased by means of an electronic transaction 
imported into T&T by air t ransportation, consigned to a 
consumer and entered from an express cargo 
consignment. The OPT is applied at a rate of 7% of the 
Customs Value (CIF) of such goods upon entry. All 
platform providers and sellers on a platform are treated 
equally.  
Para 2.36  
2. Does the definition of 
“deliveries by electronic 
means” share the same 
meaning as that of “digital 
product” as appeared in 
CPTPP? If not, please clarify 
the definition  Trinidad and Tobago via Section 6 of the Finance (No. 3) 
Act, 2016 amended the Misce llaneous Taxes Act Chap. 
77:01 to include a "PART XV" which introduced an "Online 
Purchase Tax". The phrase "delivery by electronic means" 
is not included in the wording of Finance (No. 3) Act, 2016. 
However, the amendment to the Miscellaneous Taxes Act 
Chap. 77:01 includes a definition of the term “electronic 
transaction" which is defined as "has the meaning assigned 
to it in section 2 of the Electronic Transactions Act".  
Part I Section 2 of the Electronic Transaction Act No. 6 of 
2011 was proclaimed on Ja nuary 6, 2012. Section 2 of the 
Electronic Transaction Act (ETA) defines an "electronic 
transaction" as “includes the single communication or 
outcome of multiple communications involved in the sale 
or purchase of goods and services conducted over 
computer -mediated networks or information systems, 
where the goods and services may be ordered through 
such networks or systems but the payment and ultimate 
delivery of the goods and services may occur without the 
use of such networks or systems".  In addition, the  term 
"electronic" under the ETA is defined as "means being in 
digital or intangible forms with the capability of creation, 
storage, transmission or receipt by electronic, magnetic, 
wireless, optical, biometric or any other similar means.  
3. Thailand considers that the 
requirement to hire a local 
customs broker for imports 
in the amount over TTD 
20,000 could be a barrier to 
trade. In addition, Trinidad 
and Tobago has notified its 
definitive date, 31 
December 2023, for the 
implementation of Art icle 
10.6 (Use of Customs 
Brokers) under the 
Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation. In this regard, 
would Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad and Tobago does not consider this measure to be 
a barrier to trade. Trinidad and Tobago will ensure that our 
commitments under the TFA are implemented according to 
the agreed timeframes.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 67 - 
 
  THAILAND  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
consider terminating such 
policy?  
4. Thailand would like to seek 
clarification on “tobacco 
tax”. Is this tax levied on 
both imported and domestic 
products? What is the 
rationale behind collecting 
this tax on products only of 
non-CARICOM market 
origin?  It should be noted that the tobacco tax is applied on all 
imported tobacco products including those of CARICOM 
origin as previously reported. Locally manufactured 
tobacco products are howev er subjected to excise duties.  
5. Could Trinidad and Tobago 
clarify the detail of “Cloud 
Policy”?  The GoRTT’s Draft Cloud Computing Policy aims to provide 
the requisite clarity, guidance, and encouragement for the 
wider adoption of cloud services by Government Ministries, 
Departments and Agencies (MDAs). The Policy provides 
guidance for the use of cloud computing resources in a 
responsible and structured manner that will ensure the 
security of Government and citizen data.  
The proposed Policy is intend ed to be exploratory in 
nature, reflecting the nascent stage of Cloud Computing 
within the GoRTT. It seeks to provide an enabling (as 
opposed to a regulatory) framework to facilitate and 
coordinate what will be the first iteration of Cloud 
Computing soluti ons by MDAs.  
 
The key objectives of the Cloud Policy are to:  
• Raise awareness;  
• Provide strategic direction and clarity;  
• Establish the various mechanisms through which 
cloud computing resources can be securely and 
responsibly accessed by the public sector;  
• Encourage the use of public cloud delivered 
services and applications; and  
• Develop a holistic understanding of the 
econometrics of the delivery of national ICT.  
The proposed policy envisages that an online Cloud Service 
Provider (CSP) Catalog will be created to list all accredited 
domestic and international, public and private cloud 
service providers whose prices and service offerings can 
be accessed by MDAs. Annual performance reviews will be 
conducted on the accredited CSPs and this information wi ll 
be made available to GoRTT stakeholders.  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  RESPONSE S TO QUESTIONS FROM MEMBER STATES DURING T&T’S FOURTH WTO TRADE 
POLICY REVIEW 2019  
KOREA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 35 (Para 2.30)  
Among the major concerns reported by the World Economic Forum (WEF) are: a poor ethic in the 
national labour force; inefficient government bureaucracy; corruption; and crime and theft. 
Trinidad and Tobago scored poorly in the world bank’s categories of “enforcing contracts”, “paying 
taxes” and “registering property”.  Concerns have also been expressed by a major trading partner 
about foreign exchange shortages that delay payments to foreign firms; lack of transparency in 
public procurement; time -consuming resolution of legal conflicts; and shortages of skilled and 
unskilled labour.  
1. Would Trinidad and 
Tobago please elaborate 
on any measures have 
taken or are expected to 
take in order to alleviate 
those concerns raised 
with respect to doing 
business and attracting 
investment?  In April 2017, the Cabinet of Trinidad and  Tobago 
agreed to an Implementation Plan which details 
measures/  reforms geared towards improving Trinidad 
and Tobago’s Doing Business ranking. The indicators 
that are covered in the national Implementation Plan 
include:  
• Resolving Insolvency  
• Paying Tax es 
• Starting a Business  
• Trading Across Borders  
• Dealing with Construction Permits  
• Registering Property  
• Getting Credit  
 
Some of these reforms are detailed at paragraphs 2.27 
and 2.32 of the Secretariat’s Report.  
Page 9 (Para 8.2)  
Trinidad and Tobago’s National Aid for Trade (AfT) Strategy was approved in 2016 together with 
the development of a National Aid for Trade Monitoring Committee. This Strategy will assist donors, 
investors and international development partners in deciding where best to  channel their resources 
to assist Trinidad and Tobago to further develop its international trade capacity. Notably, the 
Strategy identified funding for trade -related projects and programs under three pillars, namely: 1) 
export diversification; 2) competit iveness; 3) trade facilitation.  
2. Trinidad and Tobago in its 
submitted Report 
highlighted ‘Aid for Trade’ 
listing three areas of 
priority. Could Trinidad 
and Tobago further 
provide information as to 
project and programs 
have been undertaking 
with partners under the 
scheme and what are the 
difficulties and shortages 
encountered during the 
processes?  Trinidad and Tobago’s National Aid for Trade (AfT) Strategy 
was approved in 2016 and launched in the presence of 
representatives from the public sector,  private sector and 
various Donor Agencies.  
 
Under the Aid for Trade Strategy some of the main projects 
undertaken with donor partners are:  
- The Development of a National Quality Policy for 
Trinidad and Tobago (2018 -2030).  This Project was 
undertaken with funding assistance from the 
Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under the 
CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) 
Standby Facility for Capacity Building under the 10th 
European Development Fund (EDF). (230,000 USD)  
- The Strengthening of the Single Electronic Window for 
Trade and Business Facilitation.  The Government of 
the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, through the 
Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) has received 
financing from the Inter -American Development Bank 
(IDB), for the Project (25 Million USD)  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
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  KOREA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
- The Establishment of the Trinidad and Tobago 
Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment.  
Currently discussions are being held with Compete 
Caribbean to finalize funding arrangements for this 
Project. (210,000 USD)  
- Feasibility Studies for the Fair Trading Commission . 
Currently discussions are being held with IADB and 
UNECLAC to arrange funding for this project. (50,000 
USD) 
Some of the main challenges encountered in attaining Aid are:  
- Trinidad & Tobago graduated from the OECD DAC List 
in 2011. As such the c ountry no longer qualifies to 
receive Official Development Assistance.  
- Donors are mainly interested in funding Regional 
Projects compared to National Projects  
- Capacity building is required for the development of 
project proposals within Ministries and Agencies  
In order to further the implementation of Trinidad and 
Tobago’s Aid for Trade Strategy, an Inaugural Aid for Trade 
Donor Week was by the Ministry of Trad e and Industry from 
May 1 -4, 2018. Twenty -five (25) Presentations on various 
trade -related Projects were presented to the following seven 
(7) international development partners: International Trade 
Centre (ITC), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale 
Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), United Nations Economic Commission 
for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNECLAC) and the 
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), High 
Commission of Canada, Inter -American Development Bank 
(IADB) and Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).  
Question 3: R&D, 4th Industrial Revolution  
The need for economic diversification has been continuously emphasized throughout the 
Government submitted report as well as Secretariat report. It is encouraging that Trinidad and 
Tobago has been placing a grea t deal of efforts on expanding new economic spaces into non -
energy sectors such as agriculture, financial services, maritime services and ICTs through a 
number of measures including the development of a national quality policy and the drafting of a 
new Spe cial Economic Zones Policy.  
3. In this regard, we would 
like to ask Trinidad and 
Tobago if there is any 
Government support 
system in place to 
facilitate research and 
development to fully take 
advantage of the era of 
fourth industrial 
revolution.  In order to facilitate research and development in Trinidad and 
Tobago to fully take advantage of the era of the fourth 
industrial revolution the government has a number of support 
systems. One (1) such facility is the Research and 
Development Facility (RDF) managed by the National Export 
Promotion Agency of Trinidad and Tobago (exporTT).  
This Research and Development Facility (RDF) is a grant fund 
set up to provide financial support to the non -energy 
manufacturing and services sector. The aim o f the facility is 
to stimulate and support investment in new and advanced 
technologies and innovation, as a competitiveness 
enhancement tool.  
The objectives of the RDF are:  
• To help manufacturing and service firms to develop 
innovative products, processes , systems and 
services;  
• To increase the number of companies performing 
effective R&D in Trinidad and Tobago;  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 70 - 
 
  KOREA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
• To increase the scale of the investment in R&D in 
Trinidad and Tobago; and  
• To increase the number of companies doing R&D for 
the first time.  
The Facility endorses support for the successful market place 
entry of innovative and technology driven business ideas in 
but not limited to the following:  
• Manufacturing;  
• Financial;  
• Maritime and Aviation Services;  
• Software Design and Applications;  
• Creative I ndustries;  
• Fish and Fish Processing; and  
• Agriculture and Agro -processing.  
Another supporting mechanism being proposed by the 
Government of Trinidad and Tobago to promote the 
application of research and development is the development 
of the Phoenix Park In dustrial Estate (PPIP).  This Park will 
target firms and promote foreign direct investment in the 
areas of high -value and light manufacturing, research and 
development activities including emerging industries (artificial 
intelligence, electronic technology , information technology, 
energy -saving ecological building materials and 
biotechnology).  
Agricultural sector, high import bill  
Adding to the previous question, agriculture sector has been emphasized as one of the important 
areas to develop. Given the high import bill the country pays for its consumption and the 
significance of improving agricultural production for sustainable development and well -being of the 
people of the country,  
4. We would like to ask the 
Government of Trinidad 
and Tobago to further 
explain any specific 
measures taken to 
facilitate the sector’s 
development and what 
hinders the sector’s 
expansion.  The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has 
worked to provide an enabling environment to facilitate the 
diversificatio n trust of the agricultural sector as well as 
concurrently addressing the challenges that have plagued the 
agricultural sector over time. Some of these policies have 
targeted the following key areas:  
- Providing a ready source of labour for agriculture, thou gh 
with limited success  
- Praedial Larceny and the launch of a dedicated Squad 
which continues to work on protecting farmers produce  
- Legislation and Legislative amendments at varying draft 
stages to treat with for example, Sustainable Fisheries 
Management & Animal Health  
- Pests and diseases management - developing Integrated 
Pest Management interventions  
- Training and Development through access to training 
programmes and farmers’ outreach sessions  
- Promote the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices to 
improve p roduction and productivity of farmers, through 
Public Private Partnerships.  
 
In addition, focused has been placed on the development of 
Value Chains, particularly for root crops, cocoa and hot 
peppers geared towards the intensification of processing to WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 71 - 
 
  KOREA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
increase the number and types of value -added products for 
available markets.  
 
Also, the GORTT has created a direct link between farmers 
and consumers through the Farmers’ Market Initiative initially 
launched in 2016, and operating in eight districts.  
 
Furthe r, the GORTT has undertaken initiatives to effectively 
regulate harvesting and reduce overfishing, illegal, 
unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing 
practices and implement science -based management plans, in 
order to restore fish stocks; as well as sustainably manage 
fisheries and aquaculture resources.  
 
Some constraints affecting the developing of the agricultural 
sector in Trinidad and Tobago include:  
- Insecurity of land tenure  
- Labour for agriculture  
- Ageing farming population with resistance to the 
adoption of new technologies  
- Attracting youth in agriculture  
- Relatively High Food Import Bill fuelled by consumer 
preference and imported inputs for manufacturing  
- Relatively high cost of production due mainly to the 
high cost of imported  inputs  
- Impact of Natural Disasters such as flooding and 
extreme drought conditions  
-Limited land available for agriculture with increasing 
competing land uses.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 72 - 
 
  INDONESIA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Section 4.2  
Imports of fish and fishery products are regulated by the Fish and Fishery Products Regulations, 
which fall under the Food and Drugs Act. Importers of fish must have licenses (Section 4.2). They 
must notify the Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division within the MOH of each import consignment 
(advance notification is not required). Labelling requirements apply. Inspection requirements apply 
to all imports of fish. The inspection service fee is TTD 300 if the imported fish is to be processed, 
otherwise it is TTD 1000. The regulations allow for offshore i nspection arrangements to be made 
with overseas governments/agencies/organizations. They also allow for foreign private or 
government laboratories to be approved to undertake grading, testing and analysis activities, 
although no such arrangements have been  entered into.  
1. Please elaborate and 
specify the calculation 
method in determining the 
amount of inspection 
service fee for imported 
fish? Is the fee based on 
the number of import 
document, or based on 
import volume, or based on 
something else?  Section 32 (2) -a, b of the Fish and Fisheries Regulations  
stipulates  
Where a shipment of fish is imported into Trinidad and 
Tobago, the importer shall pay an inspection service fee of — 
(a) where the fish is intended for further processing resulting 
in substantial transformation of the fish, three hundred dollars 
for each shipment of fish that is being delivered to an 
establishment that has a certificate; and (b) in any other case, 
subject to a maximum of one thousand dollars with respect to 
each shipmen t, one hundred dollars for each lot of fish.  
 
This provision has not been applied to date. However, the fees 
are applicable per shipment / consignment not individual fish.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 73 - 
 
  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Page 27 para 2.10:  "The country is an original member of the WTO"  
3. Could Trinidad and 
Tobago clarify:  
(a) to what extent it still 
uses special and 
differential treatment 
available in existing 
agreements - excluding 
the TFA for which the EU 
is informed of category C 
representing 70% of the 
commitments for Trinidad 
and Tobago and for which 
a separate question is 
raised; and  
 
(b) what are its views as 
regards the resort to 
special and differential 
treatment in potentially 
future agreements?  INITIAL RESPONSE:  
(a) Trinid ad and Tobago as a developing member of the WTO 
and member of several WTO Groupings (ACP, G90, SVE, G33 
and W52) utilizes the special and differential treatment 
afforded by the existing agreements to implement its WTO 
commitments and measures to increase t rade opportunities, 
safeguard its trade interests and access support through 
capacity building and technical assistance to build its 
infrastructure to undertake WTO work, manage disputes and 
implement technical standards.  
(b) Trinidad and Tobago envisions that given its economic 
circumstances and institutional capacity that it will continue to 
require the more favo urable treatment afforded by the special 
and differential treatment provisions in future agreements in 
order to more effectively benefit from the  multilateral trading 
system.  
 
EU follow up question 1: Regarding Trinidad and 
Tobago's reply a), the EU would welcome if the 
authorities could list the agreements for which they 
have used the special and differential treatment allowed 
to developing countr ies. 
 
FOLLOW UP RESPONSE:  
The following is the list of agreements under which T&T can 
utilize Special and Differential Treatment : 
1) General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)  
2) Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPS) 
Agreement  
Section 3.3.2.1 Standards  
Page 63 para 3.78 -3.79 The WTO Secretariat report states that "In April 2018, the National Quality 
Policy 2018 -30 and its accompanying implementation plan was adopted. The Policy envisages 
legislative and institutional reforms, and promot es greater and more organized multi -stakeholder 
involvement."  
7. The EU welcomes this 
initiative that aims at 
remedying current 
weaknesses. Could the 
authorities inform to 
which extent the multi -
stakeholder involvement 
will include foreign 
operators and whether 
the considered 'national 
committee on non -tariff 
barriers will involve the 
private sector?  INITIAL RESPONSE:  
The Implementation Plan of the National Quality Policy includes 
Projects which would promote greater and more multi -
stakehol der involvement. One such Project is the Development 
of a Training Programme for Good Regulatory Practices (GRP). 
This would require the establishment of a National Committee 
on Non -Tariff Barriers to ensure coordination amongst entities 
involved, provide training, as well as, educate on regulatory 
practices.  
 
It is envisaged that when the National Committee on Non -Tariff 
Barriers is established, it would comprise of agencies/  
ministries and other entities involved with non -tariff measures 
including represe ntation from the private sector. At this time, 
it is not envisaged that foreign operators may form part of this 
representation. Foreign operators may make representation 
through the designated Enquiry Points and relevant diplomatic 
channels as required.  
 WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 74 - 
 
  EUROPEAN UNION  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
EU follow up question 2: Could Trinidad and Tobago 
explain why foreign operators could not be involved in 
stakeholder's consultations given that they are part of 
the private sector? If Trinidad and Tobago wishes to 
improve the business climate, the EU is of  the view that 
consultations should not be limited to domestic 
operators.  
 
FOLLOW UP RESPONSE:  
By way of clarification, it should be noted that Trinidad and 
Tobago’s initial response referenced that foreign operators 
would not be part of the National Commi ttee on Non -Tariff 
Barriers, not that they could not be part of stakeholder 
consultations. It is recognized that consultations can take 
different forms and whilst a foreign operator would not be part 
of the proposed National Committee, they can be involved  in 
consultations and dialogue in various ways, namely the 
designated Enquiry Point or through diplomatic channels.  
 
  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 75 - 
 
  UNITED STAT ES OF AMERICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
Statement by the U.S. Representative on Day 2  
1. We appreciate plans by 
Trinidad and Tobago to 
address the tariff lines 
that exceed bound rates, 
but query further 
clarification regarding 
timing beyond in the 
“short term” as stated in 
Trinidad and Tobago’s 
responses.   Trinidad and Tobago as previously st ated its commitment to 
addressing this anomaly in an expeditious manner.  
2 a) We also welcome 
further information 
regarding Trinidad and 
Tobago’s enforcement 
actions intended to 
address piracy of 
televised programs and 
infringement of the 
internet throug h 
streaming devices.  
 
b) Additionally, we would 
like to learn more about 
regulatory actions taken 
against cable and satellite 
operators that have 
provided unlicensed 
content to cable and 
satellite service 
subscribers.  The Telecommunications Authority of Tr inidad and Tobago 
(TATT) requires broadcasters to adhere to specific terms and 
conditions in their Concession Agreement which relate to 
programming, namely Concession Condition D13, which 
forbids the transmission and/or retransmission of 
unauthorized broad casts/programmes. Clause D13 states:  
“The concessionaire shall not broadcast any 
programmes, information or other material without 
first obtaining all required permissions from the 
relevant owners of any intellectual property in such 
programmes, informatio n and other material, and 
shall not otherwise infringe the intellectual property 
rights of any person.”  
There have been instances where the Authority has directly 
intervened by instructing operators to remedy breaches 
regarding specific content, or cease transmission of the 
content:  
i. Starz and Showtime Networks – In January 2011, the 
Authority instructed all subscription television 
broadcasters to cease transmission of the Starz and 
Showtime networks. These premium movie networks 
had not been offered in the local market for some time 
but had been re -introduced by certain operators in 
2010. Subsequently, the Authority received 
complaints from operators regarding competitor’s 
non-compliance, and had also received complaints 
from HBO, a direct competitor of both Starz and 
Showtime. The Authority met and held discussion with 
both Starz and Showtime, who both confirmed that 
rights for those channels were not available in the 
Region, and hence carriage was illegal.  
ii. Zee TV Networks – In May 2013, the Authority  
instructed subscription television concessionaires to 
remedy breaches in relation to transmission of 
content owned by Zee TV Networks. The Authority 
had received complaints from both the rights -holders, 
and from competing concessionaires regarding certain  
operators carrying the channels without 
authorizations. The Authority advised that operators 
would be required to remove the networks if the rights 
were not acquired.  WT/TPR/M/388/Add.1  
 
- 76 - 
 
  UNITED STAT ES OF AMERICA  
QUESTIONS  RESPONSES  
In 2015 the Authority initiated investigations against 
Diversified Technologies Limited  (DTL) after complaints were 
received regarding DTL’s possible illegal usage of equipment, 
purchased from another subscription broadcasting service 
provider, to access content for the unlawful transmission of 
the said operator’s content to its own subscrib ers. 
In 2018, the Authority received numerous complaints from 
various foreign content providers regarding one of its local 
operators (i.e. RVR International Limited (“RVR”) had failed 
to acquire authori zations/contracts for the majority of the 
channels tha t were broadcasted on its network). A decision 
was made by the Authority to take enforcement action against 
this operator and conduct a search and seizure exercise. After 
acquiring a warrant, this exercise was conducted by 
telecommunications inspectors of the Authority on May 18, 
2018. The execution of the exercise led to the determination 
that there were several channels being transmitted over the 
network without the relevant contract(s) or authorization(s).  
The Authority continues to conduct audit exercis es and to 
frequently liaise with foreign content providers to determine 
broadcasters’ compliance with Concession Condition D13.  
3. We also request 
additional insight into the 
reason for continued 
imposition of import 
surcharges, specifically 
surcharges on nine 
poultry tariff lines since 
March 2013.  Trinidad and Tobago’s imposition of import surcharges is in 
accordance with our commitments as per Article II (1) (b) of 
the GATT and in accordance with our WTO obligations and 
strategic national de velopment priorities.  
 
Import surcharges are other duties and charges and are 
occasionally applied and/or removed. The surcharge is applied 
to all trading partners.  
 
The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 
(GORTT) implemented a fifteen percen t (15%) import 
surcharge on selected poultry and poultry products to reduce 
the vulnerability of the local poultry industry and to promote 
its continued sustainability and food security needs.  
 
The surcharges on the nine poultry tariff lines will be revie wed 
and if need be, the matter will be addressed as necessary.  
 
__________