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Editor, Features Franka Philip Special Publications Unit (SPU)
Group Multimedia Manager Roshan Persad (roshan.persad@guardian.co.tt)
EDITORIAL Co-ordinators Maria Padilla-Benjamin Jamal Martin Editing & Design Richard Yacoob
Sales Manager Sonja Romany (sonja.romany@guardian.co.tt) Account Executives Rajiv Ramkissoon (ramkissoon.rajiv@gmail.com) Wendy Gangar (wendygangar.gml@gmail.com)
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Message from the Minister of Trade & Industry Paula Gopee-Scoon
The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing Trinidad and Tobago’s macro-economic stability through the implementation of mechanisms that support increased trade. The Official Policy Framework of the Government has prioritized the objective of assisting manufacturers in gaining entry into the Latin American market, through trade facilitation, negotiation of market access, investment treaties, promotional tours, trade diplomacy and Government to Government arrangements. As such, the Ministry of Trade and Industry is dedicated to implementing a number of trade policy interventions that focus on growing the country’s export base and explore export opportunities in non-traditional markets such as Latin America.
Havana International Trade Fair 2016
Cuba, with a population of over 11 million people, represents a large untapped market that is currently in economic transition. In recognition of this trade potential, the Trinidad and Tobago Government agreed to a Ministerial-led delegation to participate in the Havana International Trade Fair
(FIHAV) 2016 and related energy meetings in Havana, Cuba during the period October 31- November 4, 2016. The delegation comprised thirty-nine (39) local companies from a range of sectors; the largest Trinidad and Tobago delegation to an international trade fair. The mission sought to enhance the commercial relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba, advance the goal of collaboration, explore reciprocal trade between the two countries and overall, to have a greater understanding of the Cuban market. Bilateral discussions were held with the Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment in Cuba and the President of the Cuban Chamber of Commerce, on addressing the bureaucratic issues faced by local manufacturers when trying to enter the Cuban market. Areas for reciprocal trade were explored with the country’s leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical Group – BIOCUBAFARMA. A visit to the Mariel Special Economic Zone was also arranged and showcased the lucrative investment opportunities available in Cuba. The energy delegation, comprising key representatives from the Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Petrotrin), the National Gas Company Group and the National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP), also participated in energy related meetings during the Ministerial visit, where areas of cooperation and opportunities in the energy industry in Cuba were discussed. NGC and Petrotrin will be exploring the opportunity to export liquefied petroleum gas and gasoil in 2017. The participating companies were also able to generate strategic leads with the Cuban buyers and gather market intelligence on the Cuban market. The Ansa McAl Group, VEMCO and
Sacha Cosmetics among others, reported positive and tangible outcomes following participation at the Fair. Carib Glass obtained quality approval for glass bottles and will be supplying the same for the Santiago de Cuba brand of Cuban rum in 2017. The Trade and Energy Mission led the way towards expanding Trinidad’s exports to Cuba and the Ministry of Trade and Industry is committed to sustaining the relationship between both countries. In keeping with this goal, a further meeting will be arranged in 2017 with the Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment, Cuba, to enhance collaboration on a number of trade and investment matters.
Negotiation of Trade Agreements
The Ministry of Trade and Industry, as part of its trade facilitation objective, has participated in the negotiation of a number of trade agreements. As part of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Trinidad and Tobago has agreements with Cuba, Costa Rica, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Colombia. The Ministry of Trade and Industry has also negotiated a number of partial scope trade agreements on behalf of Trinidad and Tobago with Panama, Guatemala and El Salvador, while exploratory discussions have commenced for a partial scope agreement with Chile. These agreements have served to open the door for potential trading opportunities with Latin America.
Policy Interventions
As a complement to these trade agreements, the Ministry is also pursuing the development and implementation of a National Export Strategy. It will highlight cross-cutting issues affecting exporters; examine strategies for
Government assistance to exporters; and address sector support in technical and financial areas. A National Quality Infrastructure Policy is also being developed to ensure that local companies meet both domestic and international standards for goods and services. Both policies will seek to further the export competitiveness of local manufacturers.
Trade Agencies
exporTT Limited, as the national export facilitation organization of Trinidad and Tobago, has played an integral role in Government’s drive to facilitate increased trade with Latin America. The agency must be commended for successfully coordinating Trinidad and Tobago’s participation at the FIHAV 2016, in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Trade Facilitation Office in Cuba. exporTT Limited also offers a range of other services to exporters to assist in penetrating new markets, including co-financing for specific export related expenses, hosting of trade missions, capacity building initiatives and market research facilities. It is important that exporters capitalize on these facilities as they seek to compete internationally and maximize the various trade opportunities available.
Partnering with the Private Sector
The Government remains committed to partnering with the private sector, as the engine of growth, to promote increased trade. Overcoming the current economic challenges requires a synergistic approach; it is therefore important that the private sector continues to collaborate with the Government to further the growth and development of our economy.
Message from the Chairman, exporTT Ashmeer Mohamed
exporTT in collaboration with T&T’s network of export support agencies continues to reshape the manufacturing sector towards a global export outlook, while leading the national charge in the quest to look for new and sustainable ways to generate much needed export income.
Trinidad and Tobago enjoys several areas of non-energy sector export strengths. The most dominant of these, is a vibrant Food and Beverage sector with a wide distribution network throughout the English speaking Caribbean and expanding to countries in Latin America and beyond. Our rich culture expressed through Carnivals around the world has shown potential in the fashion, music (calypso and steelpan) and film industries. Our over 100 year history in the oil and gas industry, positions energy services to work in tandem with these sectors where alliances and cooperation can be strengthened. Consequently, exporTT executed T&T’s largest trade delegation to the Havana International Fair held in Cuba during October 31st to November 4th, 2016 which
was led by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon. A diverse contingent from our manufacturing and services base as well as a representation from our Energy sector participated in the Fair. We are thankful for the active role the Minister played in leading discussions with Cuban officials including the Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Vice Minister of Energy and Mines, and the Director of the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM). This feature shares a snapshot of what took place in the Cuban market, the businesses involved in making this all possible and the capacity to unlock opportunities for trade growth with a re-emerging regional giant.
Included in this feature are feedback from some of the exhibitors and other participants at the Fair. The Management and Staff of exporTT and the Trade Facilitation Office in Cuba played pivotal roles in the success of this mission through overall planning for the Fair and arranging B2B meetings with the respective Cuban State Agencies. exporTT will continue to work assiduously with T&T’s business community and supporting agencies to successfully establish new trade networks both regionally and globally. Through these challenging economic times, the pearl of export diversification will be formed only through the pressure of hard work, perseverance and collaboration. The continued development of our national interest and enterprise with Cuba is a bold step in this journey.
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exporTT—Who we are
Established in January 2013, exporTT Limited is the National Export Facilitation Organization of Trinidad and Tobago. Its mandate is to generate export growth and diversification in the goods and services sectors; increase the international competitiveness of exporters; develop new exporters across the various sectors of interest and expand to new markets, based
on market research. As the trade policy implementing agency of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), exporTT provides a comprehensive range of services to exporters through its core activities of building export capacity, providing market access, creating an enabling environment for exports and harnessing the differentiating factors which set Trinidad and
Tobago exporters apart in the global market place.
Services include:
• Certifying locally manufactured products for preferential access into countries with whom T&T has trade agreements • Building the capacity of Exporters through the provision of training programmes
• Co-Financing specific exportrelated activities • Facilitating International Standards Implementation • Providing Market Intelligence • Enabling export-readiness of new Exporters • Hosting Inward and Outward Trade Missions • Facilitating Exporters’ attendance at International Trade Fairs
Our Vision is to be the driving-force for the development of an internationally competitive and vibrant export sector which contributes significantly to economic diversification in T&T. We aim to develop a sustainable and diversified export sector for T&T and focus our energies on being customer centric, knowledge based and results oriented.
exporTT’s role in FIHAV 2016 This 34th International Fair of Havana, is the most significant edition attended by Trinidad and Tobago, as the delegation was led by the Minister of Trade and Industry Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon. The involvement and presence of a Government Minister sent a significant message to the Cubans that Trinidad and Tobago is serious about doing business in Cuba. Trinidad and Tobago, has participated in this Fair for the past 7 years. exporTT’s role in co-ordinating the participation of the various representatives, in collaboration with the Trade Facilitation Office in Cuba (TFO) is in fulfilment of our mandate to assist in the competitive development of exports. Participation was also in keeping with exporTT’s market access activities and focuses on stimulating awareness of Trinidad and Tobago products in the Cuban market as well as globally.
The main objectives of participation at the fair were:
• To showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s products in the Cuban market • To stimulate awareness of products already in the Cuban market and those which are likely to enter. • To nurture and maintain relationships between exporters and buyers developed during recent Fairs. • To gather information on new products and product trends which can be circulated to exporters • Create awareness in the Cuban Market about Trinidad and Tobago’s exports in terms of products and services via presentations, exhibitions and participation in relevant trade fairs. • To identify new contacts which can be beneficial to exporTT’s mandate. • To receive first-hand information about the business opportunities offered by the Special Development Zone and Container Terminal in Mariel.
Trinidad and Tobago was represented by a total of ninety-five (95) participants from diverse sectors of the economy including exporters, professional visitors, government officials, importers and energy sector representatives. Members of our delegation participated in a minimum of 120 official meetings with some of the major Cuban importers and suppliers from different sectors.
Achievements of this mission were quite significant with:
• A number of agreements signed, • The process of registration commenced for a number of companies, • Investment exploratory discussions, • Inclusion of exporters on tender schedule, • Finalization of orders from previous engagements • Follow up meetings/visits post FIHAV, • Supply source from Cuba for coffee, • Supply source for Cuban Pharmaceuticals, • Developments to provide services. Trinidad and Tobago’s attendance, has helped to build a closer relationship with the Cuban Chamber and buyers in the market. Continued attendance will ensure that these relationships are maintained so that any opportunities which may arise can be grasped. Successes from continued effort in this market are being recognised with a number of large exporters entering and exporting consistently. Attendance at the Fair has given participants with interest in the market opportunities to connect with potential customers and to get feedback on their product. Participation has also given indication of the seriousness on the part of our exporters/ business entities in the market. exporTT remains committed to assisting these and other exporters in accessing the Cuban market by providing trade information, co-ordination of B2B meetings, participation in Trade Fairs and other in-market support activities.
Ag. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Industry Norris Herbert, centre, flanked by Jude Carasquero, Commercial Representative TFO Cuba, right, Camille James, Senior Export Promotion Officer, exporTT, far left, and delegates from the Cuba Chamber of Commerce.
T&T Trade Facilitation Office in Cuba Trinidad & Tobago’s Trade Facilitation Office (TFO) in Cuba was conceptualised following the Cuba/CARICOM Agreement signed in 2004 and was officially opened in 2007. In May 2014, exporTT assumed responsibility for the operations of the TFO. The TFO is seen as critical to promote trade between Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago because unlike other countries where trade attachés are located within Embassies, in Cuba, the purchasing organizations are all state owned. To date, Cuba has only authorized the establishment of Trade Offices from three countries worldwide, Brazil (ApexBrazil), South Korea (COTEX) and Trinidad & Tobago (TFO). It is worth emphasising that T&T’s authorization was granted after intense lobbying,
at the highest level of both countries and in recognition of the long-standing and excellent relationship both countries enjoy.
The core roles of the TFO office are:
• To increase trade between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba, with particular emphasis on Trinidad and Tobago’s goods export, • To increase the export of services to Cuba under all modes of supply, • To facilitate joint venture opportunities for Trinidad and Tobago businesses in Cuba. These are achieved through: Networking & Relationship Building in Cuba, Close Relationship with exporTT’s Office & T&T Exporters, Market Research and Promotions, Investment Opportunities Matchmaking and Information Dissemination.
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Country Profile
Republic of Cuba The Republic of Cuba is an archipelago that includes Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean. Extending more than 800 km from east to west, the country lies just 145 km south of the Florida coast.
With Havana as its capital its official language is Spanish however English is widely spoken among its population of 11.2 Million. Two forms of currency are utilized - Cuban peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible peso (CUC). For international exchange purposes US$ 1 = CUC 1 at the official exchange rate. In July 2015, the US and Cuba formally announced the re-establishment of diplomatic ties. The US government has relaxed several of the prohibitions on trade and travel between the two countries, but an embargo remains in place and can only be removed by legislation. Many Republicans in Congress still oppose any move to lift the embargo. Recently, there have been sentiments by President-elect Donald Trump to ‘roll back’ on some of the foreign policy initiatives undertaken by the Obama administration. Relations with the EU have also improved after formal ties were resumed in 2005. In 2009, the Organisation of American States (OAS) voted to lift Cuba’s 47-year suspension.
Economic Prospects • Growth of real GDP has been modest but steady in recent years. Real GDP rose by 2.7% in 2013 and 3.1% in 2014. Real wages have fallen over time, leaving many consumers with little to spend except on necessities. • The country’s major industries are Tourism and Agriculture. • The tourism sector has emerged as the strongest sector of the economy. Tourist receipts are consistently growing in recent years and the development of the sector will be helped by newly negotiated agreements with US cruise lines. • The agricultural sector is dominated by the sugar industry which is the country’s biggest employer. It is, however, shrinking as the government has shut a major-
Cuba Main Trading Partners in 2015: 1. China 2. Venezuela 3. Spain 4. Canada 5. Brazil
6. Mexico 7. Italy 8. Germany 9. Argentina 10. Netherland
ity of the 156 state-run sugar mills and removed 60% of the associated state land from production. Some of the lands have been leased to some 200,000 farmers who are now able to sell in the open market after changes to regulations. • The removal of the embargo is likely to result in a surge in demand for Cuban cigars. A demand which local suppliers may not be able to keep up with. • The real value of private consumption rose by 1.5% in 2015 and gains of 2.7% are expected for 2016. The gradual easing of economic restrictions has slowly created a small but growing consumer class. Much of their activity, however, remains outside the formal market. • Remittances, coming mainly from Cuban- Americans, total about US$1 billion per year. Roughly a quarter of all Cuban families receive regular dollar payments from their relatives in the USA.
Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, centre, accompanied by His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Lancelot Cowie and Professor Nina Bruni.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRADE
Sources: Euromonitor Passport ‘Cuba Country Profile’ 29th April 2016 and Global News Matters ‘Market Dynamics Caribbean’ Issue#16 July 27-August 10 2016. Both Publications are available to exporters through exporTT’s Export Market Research Centre.
GOODS
SERVICES
JOINT VENTURE POTENTIALS
Beer
Energy Services
Renewable Energy
Beverages
ICT
Beverage Manufacturing
Tissue Paper
Renewable Energy
Packaging to support light manufacturing and food & beverage production
A combination of positive factors: political transition; economic growth; rapprochement with the USA; political goodwill with Trinidad and Tobago all combine to make the current period an opportune time to expand T&T’s exports to this market of 11.2 million citizens and 3 million annual tourist arrivals. If T&T is to capitalise on the recent progress being obtained in this market, the time is now!
Stationery
Light Manufacturing
Biscuits
Tourism
Cereals
Beer Manufacturing
Cosmetics
Coconut Water Extraction and Bottling
Water tanks
Printing and labelling
Packaging materials
Agro-processing
Electrical Materials
Creative Industries
Glass
The Havana International Fair (FIHAV) The Havana International Fair (FIHAV) is a well-established fair that takes place annually since 1983, at Cuba’s largest exhibition centre, the Expocuba Fairground.
Now in its 34th year, it is the most important general trade fair in Cuba and the Caribbean, as well as one of the most representative from Latin America. It is mainly focused on raw materials, foodstuffs, textiles, consumer goods, machinery and equipment, technology and services. The Expocuba fairground is located on Highway Carretera del Rocío, which is approximately 25 Km southeast of downtown Havana. It has an area of 600,000 m2, which includes 25,000 m2 of net
exhibition area and 25 pavilions for exhibitions. The participating enterprises are grouped by countries. Depending on the area required, they may have part of a pavilion, an entire pavilion or several pavilions. The event is the most complete national and international trade exhibition in Cuba and the Caribbean, which affords T&T’s Exporters the opportunity to: • Follow up on business leads • Establish commercial contacts • Exchange experiences and updates on the market • Strengthen relationships with potential leads • Promote and observe trends in products
and services •E xplore opportunities with Cuban and International Buyers It is also an ideal business platform to get acquainted with the opportunities that Cuba provides for the development of foreign capital, international economic relations and the establishment of the Mariel Special Economic Zone (ZEDM). The general programme at the Fair features an Opening Ceremony at Plaza de las Banderas, three (3) days of Professional Visits and one (1) Business-to-Consumer (B2C) day. The curtains draw on the final day with an Award ceremony at Palacio de Convenciones de La Habana.
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Featured participants at FIHAV 2016 • Global Brands Group of Companies (Rituals Coffee House) “I wish to congratulate Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry on leading the delegation at the Havana International Fair and being highly instrumental in opening the doors to trade with Cuba. I was honoured to be a part of the delegation and even more enthused by the opportunities that abound.” “As a coffee connoisseur there is an undeniable pleasure of sipping the finest quality of coffee, and Cuba produces one of the highest qualities of coffee in the world.” “Through the initiative of the Honourable Minister, I am proud and excited to announce that Rituals Coffee House has signed an agreement with Caracallio Coffee, a producer of 100% pure Cuban Coffee. In January 2017, Rituals Coffee House will introduce Rituals Cubano, a dark roasted coffee served as shots or cortadito or Café con leche, which is a traditional social and cultural staple in Cuba and Florida.” “The Cubans were warm, welcoming and very receptive to our interests to trade development. There is tremendous business potential for both countries. Our timing was right and I am optimistic with these new opportunities.” Mario Sabga-Aboud Chairman, Global Brands Group of Companies Rituals Coffee House
• Trinidad Tissues Limited Trinidad Tissues Limited (TTL) was involved as an exhibitor in the 2016 FIHAV. In prior FIHAV events, TTL was involved by sending delegates to the show but did not secure a separate exhibit space. The involvement of the Minister of Trade and Industry, Senator the Honourable Senator Paula Gopee-Scoon, proved to increase the participation of other Trinidadian companies as well as to increase the participation and interest of the Cuban government officials, delegates and buyers. Due to the increased participation, we were able to meet key government officials and to highlight products we are already shipping to the market. Trinidad Tissues Limited has been working diligently over the past two years to complete all required registrations needed to open trade in this key market. We began our first shipments of bath tissue finished goods in 2013, via a broker. In 2015, we expanded quickly with direct sales of semi-finished napkin and towel paper to the primary manufacturing facility in Cuba. In the 4th quarter of 2016, our sales expanded further with our branded bath tissue products, imported for sale and distribution by TRD, one of the largest distribution and retail businesses in Cuba. Our outlook for 2017 could more than double our total sales of semi-finished and branded tissue papers to the Cuban market. We have found both the companies and the buyers in Cuba to be very receptive to supply from Trinidad and Tobago due to our high quality, competitive cost, excellent customer service, and short lead-times compared to alternatives from Asia and around the globe. We fully support the initiative of the Minister of Trade and Industry to complete the financing agreements between the two governments, along with the participation of EXIMBANK, Republic Bank Limited and others. With secure and efficient financial processes available to facilitate payment, the competitive advantages for Trinidadian companies in this market will be further enhanced. Trinidad Tissues is focused on meeting the challenges in this emerging market and to continue to expand the manufacturing jobs created and the foreign exchange generated by our export growth strategy.
• Blue Waters Products Limited
• Cubanidad Ltd
Blue Waters Products Limited participated in the FIHAV 2016 in Cuba. Blue Waters saw this Tradeshow as a great opportunity to expand its reach in the Caribbean. As a company already established in 13 countries in the English speaking Caribbean, Cuba would be a first for us with a Spanish speaking territory that has a population of 11.2 Million persons. The team from Blue Waters, led by CEO Mr. Dominic Hadeed went with the intention to meet buyers from Cuba and to introduce Blue Waters brands to the Cuban people. The Blue Waters booth exhibited and sampled CRAN+, our Cranberry flavoured beverage as well as our signature brand, Blue Waters to the people of Cuba. The feedback received from the Cuban general population was phenomenal. They loved our CRAN+ Beverage due to the fact that it’s a Low Calorie Flavoured Beverage that contains only 10 grams of sugar, has antioxidants, Vitamins A & E and Ginseng. They also loved the fact that it came in various flavours such as Cran/Lime, Cran/Grape, Cran/Apple and regular Cranberry. With the overall positive feedback received from the general population for Blue Waters CRAN+, we are hopeful to have continued discussions with the Buyers to make this product available to the Cuban market. The Blue Waters bottled water was also positively received as the taste of our artesian well water which contains no sodium or additives was refreshing to the Cuban people, as this market currently only serves one brand of bottled water, and it was an exciting opportunity to show case the Blue Waters brand. Overall the experience at the FIHAV 2016 Trade Show produced positive results and we were excited to be a part of this event. Blue Waters will continue to seek new opportunities to invest and grow, as part of our mission One Bottle a day for every man, woman and child. This was another stepping stone on the path to hydrating the Caribbean with quality, great tasting and healthy beverages!
Having been in Cuba the two weeks preceding FIHAV, our Directors were happy they made the decision to stay and participate in the Fair which could only be described as a fantastic experience, having seen the convergence of companies from across the globe proudly displaying and explaining their offerings. We were also suitably impressed by our own country’s manufacturers, standing shoulder to shoulder with some of the well-established international brands. Our display area was extremely well-organized and we felt quite at home being among our countrymen and women, proudly wearing the insignia of our national flag presented to us as part of a package prepared for delegates by exporTT. Our company, Cubanidad Ltd, has been seeking bilateral trading and other opportunities that are available between our two countries over the past six years. We have seen opportunities in the areas of agriculture, health tourism and indigenous products like the Cuban cigars, coffee and spirits, as well as in renewable energy initiatives. To this end, we have established agreements in the following areas: • 1. An Agency Agreement with Comercializadora de Servicios Medicos Cubanos S.A., SMC, the state company responsible for offering Cuba’s Medical Services and Medical Education Programmes to the international market. • 2. An Agency Agreement with CIMEX S.A. for promotion and distribution of selected brands of coffees and spirits which are produced by them and are well-renowned worldwide. • 3. A letter of intent with Grupo Agroforestal Empresario, Ministry of Agriculture, Cuba, for our proposal to provide a 20 MW, Biomass Electricity Generation Plant to the Cuban National Electricity Grid. To this end, we have partnered with PowerChina International as our EPC contractor for the project. The project is presently in the design phase, with implementation expected to commence during the end of the second quarter of next year. In general, our experience in the Cuban Market thus far has been measured, but extremely encouraging and progressive, ably assisted always by our T&T Trade Facilitation Office in Cuba. • Continues on Page B7
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• From Page B6
• Kaleidoscope Paints The experience of Kaleidoscope Paints and its subsidiary Samba Brewery in FIHAV 2016 was in a general sense very positive and encouraging. This was a very large contingent of Trinidad and Tobago manufacturers who were very ably supported by officials of exporTT Limited as well as the Minister of Trade and Industry Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon. Additionally, we received tremendous assistance from the local representatives of the exporTT Trade Facilitation Office that is based in Havana. Companies from Trinidad are required to register with buyer companies in Cuba, and also products or services offered for sale must be submitted for approval. Apart from offering competitive pricing, Trinidad companies were also advised to explore the possibilities of entering into joint- venture partnerships with local entities in their area of expertise. The warm welcome and enthusiasm displayed by Cuban officials including the Cuban Minister of Trade, respective Ambassadors of both countries and others augur well for the future development of trade between both nations. Our desire for KPL Paint Group is to capitalize on any opportunities that will arise in this nation with a population of 11.2 million people.
• HADCO HADCO’s participation as a member of the largest Trinidad and Tobago delegation to the Havana International Fair (FIHAV) was truly rewarding, invigorating and exciting. Meetings were held with Cuban businesspersons, government representatives and local businesspersons who were all very eager to enter the Cuban market. Individuals who had completed the rigorous process of registering their companies in Cuba shared their perspectives and spoke about the challenges and rewards of doing business in this unique country. Additionally, the Fair presented us with the opportunity to have a look at the emerging trends in our core areas of focus – food and beverage, electrical and lighting, and wine and spirits. FIHAV piqued our interest in satisfying the needs of the diverse Latin American market and we are eager to jump in. A market of over 600 million excites us and presents the opportunity for a natural synergy as we already represent several of the most popular Latin American brands including Trapiche, Doña Paula, and Errazuriz. We at HADCO are anxious to expand our own product portfolio to reflect even more brands from the region and we are confident of our own prospects for establishing operations in the manufacturing sector in Cuba, within the not too distant future. We appreciate, wholeheartedly, the efforts of the entire exporTT team who worked tirelessly to ensure that our experience, and the experience of all delegates was satisfactory, rewarding and productive. Expectations were met and exceeded at every stage. The Trinidad and Tobago Pavilion was well designed and organized, meetings were punctual, arranged as requested and the logistics were clearly communicated and executed. Additionally, the assistance of the Trinidad and Tobago government representatives who reside in Cuba - His Excellency Dr. Lancelot Cowie, Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago to Cuba, and the T&T Trade Facilitation Office – proved to be truly invaluable. From facilitating one-on-one engagements to providing advice on transportation and lodging, the team was fantastic. As we approach our 25th anniversary, we at HADCO are committed to exploring the possibility of doing business in Cuba and we are certainly looking forward to the 2017 instalment of FIHAV!
Cuban vice-minister of foreign trade Antonio Carricarte Corona, second right, speaks with some members of the T&T delegation during FIHAV 2016.
• National Flour Mills NFM is very grateful to exporTT for the invitation extended to participate in the Trinidad and Tobago pavilion at FIHAV 2016. Cuba is a wonderful country rich with culture and national pride. It is difficult to visit this country and not experience a sense of nostalgia for the way things used to be when life was simpler, and less defined by the ostentatious trappings of western lifestyles or a time when your personal safety was not top of mind in every daily action from parking your car to going to bed at night. It was refreshing to reflect on the way life used to be. The Cuban people are unmistakably Caribbean and the warmth and hospitality we experienced as a Trinidad and Tobago contingent during the trade visit was amazing. Doing business with Cuba can best be described as a process. It is not about having a product that a customer wants, negotiating a price that is good for both parties and beginning to trade. NFM learnt that doing business in Cuba is almost a rite of passage. You have to demonstrate your understanding and respect for this process by your willingness to be patient, your resolve to stay the course, following up on all the steps necessary to register your products and generally navigating the bureaucratic landscape which can take a few years, all the while motivated by the knowledge that access to this large market can be a game changer. NFM’s participation in FIHAV 2016 was a good first introduction to doing business in Cuba. We were able to make good contacts that would otherwise have taken months. A lot of this success must be credited to the active participation of the Minister of Trade and Industry who personally facilitated meetings between local manufacturers and senior Cuban government officials.
• INSEPRA LIMITED Participating at the recently concluded FIHAV 2016, in Havana Cuba, along with the largest business delegation from Trinidad and Tobago, was an enlightening experience and more importantly, a proud moment as a Trinidad & Tobago national and service company within CARICOM. This experience fostered new relationships among many key Cuban stakeholders in the area of Government institutions associated with trade and investment, the Cuban Business Chamber (La Camara) and also further strengthened our relationships with existing customers. The visit to the Cuban Pavilion allowed us to gain a better appreciation and understanding of their way of doing business and drive to partner and build relationships with key suppliers
to learn and enhance their technological capabilities. We have been involved with the Cuban market for approximately three years gaining more success each year. Contributing to this success is our patience, persistence and ability to think outside of the box as well as tremendous support and guidance from the exporTT office in Havana. In Cuba, we are currently the lead service provider from T&T specializing in various technologies and equipment used by local manufacturers in the application of barcodes as well as date and machine readable codes, required to meet all international traceability standards for manufactured products. To capture other opportunities and support our growth, we have a resident Cuban national who is now able to better provide technical support to all manufacturers we partner with, in a timely and efficient manner. Further exposure of this kind will continue to open markets for trade, showcase Trinidad & Tobago and increase our export market.
• EXIMBANK The Export Import Bank of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd (EXIMBANK) represented by our Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Credit and Business Development Manager and Portal Administrator were part of the delegation of private and public sector officials from Trinidad and Tobago at the Havana International Fair (FIHAV 2016) in Cuba. Participation was aimed at strengthening commercial ties, exploring new market opportunities for local manufacturers and service providers, to increase exports sales and expand our domestic economy through export led growth initiatives. Given the mandate of our institution, it was incumbent upon us to be part of this trade fair and commit to our role as the lead Financial Institution, providing trade finance services in support of Government’s diversification thrust, as a means of mitigating our current economic challenges. The environment at FIHAV 2016 created an interesting mix of business events and meetings with local and foreign organizations as well as Cuban state agencies. Meetings focused on our unique suite of financial products as well as promoting our business portal initiative “Madein-TnT.com”. This portal will provide Trinidad and Tobago exporters with the support needed to successfully display and sell their products and services to the global community. The Ministry of Trade and Industry and exporTT must be commended for their efforts in the successful production and management of the Trinidad and Tobago Pavillion, as it reflected our common goals and objectives. exporTT’s team professionalism and market knowledge contributed to a warm and cordial environment within the Trinidad and Tobago delegation. We at EXIMBANK say Thank You as we look forward to FIHAV 2017!
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Participants of FIHAV 2016 Ministry of Trade & Industry • Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon – Minister of Trade and Industry • Norris Herbert - Permanent Secretary (Ag.) • Shanna Ramesar-Beharry - Industry Specialist exporTT Limited • Ashmeer Mohamed - Chairman • Dwight Brown - Chief Executive Officer (Ag.) • Brian Benjamin - Manager, Projects • Nathali Richards - Senior Export Officer • Camille James - Senior Export Officer • Jude Carasquero - Commercial Representative (TFO Cuba) • Martha Lucia Martinez - Trade Assistant (TFO Cuba)
Participating Exhibitor Companies • Ansa Chemicals Limited • Ansa Coatings Limited • Ansa Polymer Limited • Blue Waters Products Limited • Carib Brewery Limited • Carib Glassworks Limited • Global Marketing Enterprises Co. Limited • John Dickinson & Co. (West Indies) Limited • Kaleidoscope Paints Limited • National Flour Mills • Sacha Cosmetics Limited • S.M. Jaleel & Company Limited • Trinidad Tissues Limited • VEMCO Limited
Participating Exhibitor Agencies • EXIMBANK • Tobago House of Assembly Professional Visitors Companies • Ansa McAl Head Office • Bermudez Biscuit Company • Cubanidad Limited • Diamond Interiors Limited • Global Brands Group of Companies • HADCO Limited • Insepra Limited • Lange Trinidad Limited • Lifetime Solutions • Physicians Pharmaceuticals Limited • T!NC
• Unicom Limited Professional Visitors Agencies / Institutions • RBC Financial Caribbean Limited • RBC Royal Bank (T&T) Limited • Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association Professional Visitors Energy • Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries • National Energy Corporation • National Gas Company • Phoenix Park Gas Processors Limited • Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago • T&T National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited
Special Mentions & Thanks To: • Senator, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon and the Ministry of Trade and Industry • His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Lancelot Cowie - Embassy of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago in Cuba • His Excellency Guillermo Vázquez Moreno and the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Trinidad & Tobago. • Cuba Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment (MINCEX) • Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of Cuba • Caribbean Export Development Agency • Republic Bank Limited • Participating Exporters and Agencies • Board, Management and Staff of exporTT in Trinidad & Tobago and Cuba
exporTT Offices Head Office & Trade Certification Unit: 151B Charlotte Street Port of Spain Tel: (868) 623-5507/625-0520 (TFU) Fax: (868) 625-8126 Email: info@exportt.co.tt Website: www.exportt.co.tt T&T Trade Facilitation Office: República de Trinidad y Tobago Calle 3era. Entre 76 y 78 Edificio Beijing primer piso oficina 124 Centro de Negocios Miramar Tel: 537 204 4242 Fax: 537 204 4246 Websites: www.tradeind.gov.tt or www.exportt.co.tt Point Lisas Office: Plipdeco Information Centre Atlantic Avenue Point Lisas Industrial Estate Point Lisas Tel: (868) 679-2492/4429 Fax: (868) 679-2493 Email: info@exportt.co.tt Website: www.exportt.co.tt Tobago Office: E-Teck Mall, Sangster’s Hill Scarborough Tobago Tel: (868) 639-4067/639-2549 Fax: (868) 639-4340 Email: info@exportt.co.tt Website: www.exportt.co.tt
More Info For more info on Cuba, please contact exporTT Senior Export Promotion Officers Nathali Richards or Camille James at 623-5507 ext 363/225 or email nrichards@exportt.co.tt/cjames@exportt.co.tt.