Energy Recovery & Security: Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal says oil production is set for a rebound under Heritage Petroleum’s expansion plan, but warns pipeline sabotage is undermining gains after a Barrackpore incident released about 416 barrels of crude. Refinery Restart Roadmap: He also reiterated confidence in a clear legal/financial plan to restart the Pointe-a-Pierre refinery by end-2026, stressing due diligence over rushing. Gas & Petrochem Pressure: Government maintained it will pursue commercial solutions after Methanex idled a methanol plant, while broader shutdowns continue to strain foreign exchange earnings. Food Costs Watch: The Consumer Affairs Division urged shoppers to compare poultry prices as both live chicken prices and processing fees ticked up, alongside food-safety reminders. Utility Management Shake-up: T&TEC appointed two new managers the same day it dismissed two executives, including an internal audit manager and a new security head. Business Sentiment: Chaguanas firms report falling sales and rising costs as consumers cut back, while the T&T Chamber CEO urged directors to plan for ongoing volatility. Tech & Skills: NIHERST and Shell hosted the FIRST Tech Challenge 2026, spotlighting robotics talent, and Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath pointed to improved SEA results supported by an AI past-paper platform. Trade & Regional Moves: T&T advanced its Mercosur associate membership bid, aiming to open doors for local manufacturing in South America. Local Crime Link to Commodities: Rising global copper prices are being linked to increased copper theft and related crime.