Trinidad’s Agro-Processing Sector Grapples with U.S. Tariffs and Seeks New Growth Paths

8/24/2026
RadioTTGuardianFreedom106.5FM

In a special “Agri Business Innovation” panel on Freedom 106.5 FM, the chamber’s president, Malded Maraj, and SME specialist Karina Suku discussed the immediate and long-term impacts of recent U.S. tariff increases on Trinidad and Tobago’s agriculture and agro-processing industries.

Maraj explained that the tariffs affect both sides of the value chain. “On the input side we import raw materials and packaging from the U.S., and those costs rise because of the 10% surcharge,” he said. “When our finished goods enter the U.S., the same surcharge applies, although most of our sales go to the diaspora, which softens the impact.”

He stressed that higher input costs are a pressing concern, but also highlighted that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) market offers an alternative outlet. “There is no tariff within CARICOM, and our processed goods already have a strong presence in Eastern Caribbean supermarkets,” Maraj noted, calling the region a “huge, under-utilised market” for Trinidadian products.

Suku added that the tariff shock can also drive operational improvements. She pointed to internal efficiencies such as waste reduction, energy savings through solar power, and tighter supply-chain management. “When external pressures arise, we innovate—automating processes, improving branding, and seeking certification to meet export standards,” she said.

The panel identified several opportunities to boost competitiveness:

  • Diversifying export products – cocoa, hot sauces and other less-tariff-sensitive items can be expanded.
  • Leveraging CARICOM – promoting intra-regional trade where tariffs are absent.
  • Improving productivity – adopting automation, AI, and drone technology to increase yields and reduce labor costs.
  • Strengthening branding and certification – ensuring products meet international quality standards to open new markets.

Discussion turned to systemic bottlenecks. Maraj described chronic port delays, foreign-exchange shortages for importing fertilizers and chemicals, and the high costs of clearing goods. “Paying extra rent for containers held up for weeks erodes profitability,” he lamented.

Regulatory hurdles were also highlighted. Suku noted that SMEs often struggle with the numerous forms required by the Ministries of Health and Agriculture, and that a centralized information hub could streamline compliance. “Lack of clear guidance on standards, branding and traceability hampers small producers from entering supermarkets, hotels or export channels,” she said.

The conversation concluded with a look at technology adoption. Maraj affirmed that AI and automation are already being introduced at a fundamental level, and that drone-enabled greenhouses could dramatically increase yields while reducing labor. “Investments in precision farming and greenhouse technology could deliver five-to-ten-fold yield improvements,” he explained.

Overall, the panel agreed that while U.S. tariffs pose a challenge, they also serve as a catalyst for innovation, regional market expansion, and modernization of Trinidad and Tobago’s agro-processing sector.