AGP Executive Report
Last update: 4 hours agoEnergy & Industry Dealmaking: Massy Group confirmed it has sold its Caterpillar business in Trinidad and Tobago to Machinery Corporation Motors (MACORP), a local subsidiary of Machinery Corporation of America, saying the move supports growth and keeps workers in mind. Consumer & Distribution: Nestlé Trinidad and Tobago will shift its local distribution model in January 2027, with Massy Distribution Division becoming the main distributor, while Nestlé says the earlier factory sale is separate and consultations with the OWTU are underway. Procurement & Governance: A new push around the Public Procurement and Disposals of Public Property (Amendment) Bill 2026 is raising concerns about weaker accountability, higher costs for suppliers challenging tenders, and reduced scrutiny. Budget Planning: Caribbean Energy Chamber CEO Eugene Tiah argues the 2027 budget must be tied to a long-term economic strategy, not treated as a one-year exercise. Critical Minerals Research: The U.S. DOE awarded US$29.5M to Ames National Laboratory projects under “Mine of the Future” to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals. Trade & Investment Links: Canada is opening doors for tariff-free market access and joint ventures with T&T firms, with a trade mission bringing 30+ local businesses to Toronto. Tourism Jobs: YTEPP and TIATT signed an MOU to create tourism employment pathways for trainees. Digital Payments Policy: Caribbean central banks are moving away from CBDCs toward instant payment systems as adoption remains low. Food & Agriculture: A food industry voice is calling for farmers and producers to get a real share of Carnival and festival revenue so more spending stays local. Creative Economy: The 20th Trinidad + Tobago Film Festival named multiple regional winners, including DANM as Best Film made in T&T.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.