She articulated to the audience the attractive attributes that position Trinidad and Tobago as an ideal destination in which to do business which included the country’s easy access to North and South America; its strategic location as a transhipment hub for exports; preferential access to the markets of CARICOM and other regional and international markets through trade agreements with the United States of America, Canada and the European Union; low utility cost; developed communications infrastructure; and access to generous fiscal incentives.
The services sector is important to the country’s economy, contributing approximately fifty-six (56) percent to total Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Ministry of Trade and Industry, recognizing the services sector’s potential, has been working to create opportunities, bolster competitiveness and support trade facilitation to stimulate investment in services through strategic interventions. Minister Gopee-Scoon welcomed the Crowe Horwath International staff and expressed anticipation of a long and fruitful, mutually beneficial relationship.
Mr. Juan Carlos Lara-Povedano, Regional Executive, Crowe Horwath International assured the audience of the company’s commitment to contribute to the growth and development of Trinidad and Tobago for the future. His Worship the Mayor of Port-of-Spain, Alderman Joel Martinez, welcomed Crowe Horwath International to the City of Port-of-Spain, and expressed confidence that the company’s presence would be felt in Trinidad and Tobago.