AGP Executive Report

ANSA McAL Credit Boost: CariCRIS has assigned ANSA McAL “Cari-AA” and “ttAA” ratings with a stable outlook, citing strong performance, governance and disciplined execution. Tobago Data Centre Scrapped: After nearly a decade, plans for a Tobago data centre have been shelved, leaving questions about future digital storage and security needs. Nestlé Sale Enters Next Phase: The OWTU says Nestlé’s sale process is moving ahead, with an international firm in Switzerland overseeing the transaction and about 200 workers facing months of uncertainty. Housing Tensions at HDC: Housing Minister Phillip Alexander faced verbal clashes with HDC tenants in Maloney Gardens over maintenance and infrastructure complaints. CXC Exam Changes: CXC will phase out SBAs for several CSEC and CAPE subjects from 2027, shifting to exam-based assessments for some areas. Jack Warner Legal Win: The High Court permanently stayed the US extradition case, citing breaches of constitutional rights and ordering damages and costs. Water Update: WASA says Hollis Reservoir is slowly recovering but inflows remain low, so some communities may still see reduced supply. Crime: Two men were arrested after a Chaguanas mini-mart robbery where a firearm was seized. SEA Results & Youth Culture: Students celebrate SEA results while the Best Village 2026 youth programme ramps up.

Water Supply Update: WASA says Hollis Reservoir is slowly recharging, but inflows are still below what’s needed to restore normal production, so some north-east communities may keep seeing reduced pipe-borne supply and schedule changes. Crime & Security: Two men were arrested after a Chaguanas mini-mart robbery with a firearm; police seized a black pistol with 10 rounds of 9mm ammo. Investigation: Search teams in Mon Repos, San Fernando found skeletal remains after a dog was seen carrying what appeared to be a human jawbone; TTPS is investigating and the remains will go to the Forensic Science Centre. Public Health Push: The Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago launched a Human Foosball Tournament to “Kick Big Soda Out of Sport,” linking sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods to health risks. Regional & Diplomatic: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says she received a letter from Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez thanking T&T for earthquake support, including humanitarian supplies and overflight approvals. Social Impact: Conflict Women and Regency Recruitment signed an MoU to help gender-based violence survivors gain job readiness support and employment pathways. Sports & Culture: Prime Minister mourns cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers; Tobago’s Fog Angels marks its 2026 Carnival build-up with a growing mas band brand.

AI Data Centres Debate: Trinidad and Tobago’s government signed MoUs with U.S. firms for large-scale AI and data centre projects, but public pushback is growing, including a petition urging a pause until environmental and infrastructure studies are completed; Diplomacy & Recovery: After the June 24 Venezuela earthquakes, PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Acting President Delcy Rodríguez exchanged letters on quake relief and recovery, with analysts saying it could open a path to rebuilding trust; Politics & Courts: The PNM says it is preparing for a legal fight after being served court documents over the funding of Balisier House, while the party’s legal team reviews the order; Local Governance: Trinidad City Hall in Texas saw resignations after water-quality and compliance controversies, adding pressure to an already troubled system; Public Safety: A British pub landlady, 65, was shot dead in Trinidad and Tobago during a holiday, with police investigating and no arrests reported; Business & Travel: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 extra flights and 7,656 seats for the July-August peak travel period, boosting the Trinidad-Tobago airbridge.

AI & Data Centres: Trinidad and Tobago’s push to host new U.S.-backed AI data centre projects is drawing fresh scrutiny as concerns grow over water stress, readiness, and transparency, even as government and supporters say the investments could boost the economy. Public Finance & Children’s Services: The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services says it has regularized TT$17.88 million in audited, unremitted statutory obligations owed by the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, after intervention to address governance and oversight failures. Food Security & Research: CARDI launched its first Agricultural Research and Innovation Symposium, bringing together researchers, farmers and partners to advance climate-resilient, science-driven food systems across the region. Business & Risk: A Chaguanas businessman reports losing over $1.3 million in an alleged online banking hack, renewing calls for stronger cyber protections for local firms. Regional Governance: CARICOM tax administrators meet in July in Guyana to discuss future-ready, data-driven tax administration. Weather & Flooding: Residents in Santa Cruz and Maraval warn that narrow drains and poor waste disposal could worsen flooding risk as heavy rain approaches.

AI Data Centres & Public Scrutiny: Hummingbird AI says it has moved to address public doubts about its proposed multi-billion-dollar data centre project, sharing leadership details and partners after criticism over its limited public profile. Water & Flood Risk: Residents in Santa Cruz and Maraval warn blocked drains and waste disposal could worsen flooding as a Yellow Level weather alert is issued; separately, Trinidad’s water recovery could take 3–4 years even if conditions improve. Politics & Governance: The Balisier House funding probe keeps campaign finance reform in the spotlight as MSJ accuses PNM and UNC of hypocrisy; meanwhile, CARICOM’s move to refer the CCJ reappointment of Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett is slammed as political evasion. Economy & Business: Economists and politicians warn T&T’s debt is at a dangerous level after the government’s US$800m bond; ANSA McAL also gets CariCRIS credit ratings. Trade & Diplomacy: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says talks with a high-level US delegation will deepen cooperation on investment and regional collaboration, while T&T pushes closer Mercosur ties. Food & Jobs: Two companies signal interest in buying Nestlé T&T’s dairy and juices business as the firm reviews options. Regional Mobility: Spain grants visa-free entry to Trinidad and Tobago and eight other CARICOM states for short stays.

Security Update: A regional security consultant is calling for an intensified national response after Trinidad and Tobago’s murder toll passed 200, warning that even if more killings are linked to domestic disputes, every homicide still demands serious investigation and prosecution. Diplomacy & Investment: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says talks with a high-level US delegation will deepen cooperation on investment, economic development and regional collaboration. Regional Security Cooperation: Caribbean law enforcement officials are meeting in Guyana on asset recovery and joint efforts against transnational organised crime. Public Finance: Government has exempted payments on a proposed US$800m international bond issue from taxes and exchange control. Travel & Mobility: Spain has granted visa-free short stays for citizens of nine CARICOM countries, including Trinidad and Tobago, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Business & Trade: AMCHAM T&T facilitated direct engagement between local firms and senior US investment officials, opening doors to financing for major projects. Local Business Profile: Aurora Bitayson is preparing to export its wines, syrups and preserves beyond Trinidad, targeting Barbados and Grenada first.

AI & Data Centres: Trinidad and Tobago signed MoUs with U.S. firms Ernst & Young and Hummingbird AI Holdings for large AI data centre projects, sparking fresh debate over whether the country has the power and water capacity to support builds that could total hundreds of megawatts. Policy & Implementation: The IDB says its next 2026-2030 strategy for T&T will focus less on more plans and more on faster delivery, clearer timelines and better coordination. US-ICC Tensions: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar declined to comment on the U.S. push to dismantle the ICC while meeting a high-level American delegation, as local voices urge T&T not to back away from the court. Local Governance & Tourism: THA says it’s waiting on the Marriott project to start, while Tobago’s Elephant Tree resort is already under construction. Regional Trade & Transport: CARICOM leaders and private sector reps backed a pilot ferry service using T&T’s offered vessel to improve air and maritime connectivity and cut trade costs. Public Safety: TTPS carried out Operation RESOLUTE Shield, arresting suspects in robbery and larceny cases and recovering stolen phones. Sports: T&T U-19s beat the Windwards to set up a Jamaica clash, with Daniel Holder leading the wicket-taking charts. Travel: Spain added nine CARICOM countries, including T&T, to its visa-free list for short stays.

AI Data Centres Debate: Former PM and energy minister Stuart Young urges caution on T&T’s proposed AI data centre projects, pointing to New York’s one-year pause over power and water strain, while local business voices call for town halls and independent expert input before anything proceeds. US-T&T Talks: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar met a high-level US delegation to deepen cooperation on investment, economic development and regional issues, with ministers including Finance, Energy and Public Administration and AI in attendance. Airbridge Boost: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 extra flights (7,656 seats) to the Trinidad–Tobago domestic airbridge from July 16 to Aug. 31 to meet peak demand for Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. Visa-Free Travel: Spain added Trinidad and Tobago and other CARICOM states to its visa-free list for short stays up to 90 days. Regional Cricket: Windwards Under-19s suffered a second straight defeat at the CWI Rising Stars 50-over Championship, losing to Trinidad & Tobago by three wickets. Copyright Row: The Trinidad and Tobago Copyright Collection Organisation is seeking clarity on World Cup licensing for commercial viewing in bars and similar venues.

AI Data Centres Debate: Trinidad and Tobago’s government says the signed U.S. MOUs on AI infrastructure and data centres are only frameworks for due diligence, not final approvals, as officials push back on public fears about power, feasibility and environmental impact. Energy & Economy Watch: The Energy Chamber reports mixed conditions in the energy services sector in Q2 2026, with more firms saying business value and volumes were below normal. Local Governance & Public Confidence: Trinidad and Tobago remains the country with the most Privy Council appeals for the fifth straight year, renewing calls to strengthen the CCJ as the final court of appeal. Politics & Transparency: The PNM says it will fight an investigation into Balisièr House redevelopment funding, arguing it’s politically motivated. Transport & Tourism: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 flights and 7,600+ seats on the Trinidad–Tobago air bridge from July 16 to Aug. 31 to handle peak travel for Tobago events. Sports & Community: TUCO president Ainsley King retains office amid process concerns, while Wanda Woods’ Olympic track legacy is highlighted and the Tobago Moves 5K raises awareness for early cancer detection.

AI & Data Centres Debate: Government says its AI data centre plans are still at the MoU stage, with Dominic Smith stressing feasibility, environmental and regulatory checks before anything is built, while a Change.org petition against the projects has surged past 3,200 signatures over water and power fears. Economy & Investment Push: Economist Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon argues the three US-linked MoUs—covering AI infrastructure, a 300MW data centre and Point Lisas steel recommissioning—could boost foreign exchange and jobs, positioning T&T as a regional AI hub. Digital Services: E-passports are set to roll out from early 2027, with a smoother online process and no need for an immediate rush to replace existing passports. Business & Funding: TTSE is encouraging SMEs to consider listing for long-term capital beyond traditional bank loans, as it highlights market entry opportunities at TIC. Transport & Tourism: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 extra domestic flights, adding 7,656 seats for the July/August peak travel period. Weather Alert: A Yellow Flood Alert is in effect for southern and eastern Trinidad due to more rain over saturated ground. Sports: T&T beat Windward Islands by three wickets in Rising Stars action; Tobago Moves 5K raises cancer awareness with the Cancer Society expanding outreach. Politics: Former PM Stuart Young condemns what he calls an “orchestrated attack” on the PNM, while PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says the PNM must produce evidence on Balisier House funding.

AI Data Centres Debate: A Change.org petition urges the Government to pause proposed AI data centres, citing Trinidad and Tobago’s water crisis and heavy power needs; it has drawn 3,200+ verified signatures. Government Response: Public Administration and AI Minister Dominic Smith says the signed MOUs with U.S. firms are not final approvals and that technical, environmental and regulatory checks must come first. Local Pushback (Debe): Debe residents want clarity on how AI projects will affect water and electricity, after officials said supplies won’t be affected and desalination plans are being considered. Politics & Transparency (Balisier House): Former PMs Keith Rowley and Stuart Young accuse the Government of using the PNM headquarters financing probe to distract from crime, forex shortages and economic woes, while PNM renews calls for campaign finance reform. Unexplained Wealth Laws: Lawyers say the Balisier House matter could become a landmark test of T&T’s unexplained wealth rules involving a political party. Flood Alert: Met Services issued a Yellow Localized Flood Alert for Monday, warning of ponding, traffic delays and landslip risk in waterlogged areas. Tobago Aviation: Transport Minister Eli Zakour says an opening date for the new ANR Robinson airport terminal has been set but won’t be released yet. Sports (Rising Stars): Windwards lost to Barbados in the CWI Rising Stars opener in Antigua. Cricket (Pakistan Tour): Pakistan’s Test squad departs for the West Indies, with matches scheduled in Trinidad later this month.

CARICOM Legal Showdown: CARICOM Heads of Government have referred the reappointment of Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett to the CCJ for an advisory opinion, keeping her in office while the court weighs in—raising questions about whether leaders are just postponing a political decision. Tobago Safety Push: Tobago House of Assembly councillor Orlando Kerr says the Tobago Marine Parks Bill must be enacted to “put teeth” into enforcement after a jet ski collision death at Pigeon Point, with operators still reportedly entering bathing areas. HSF Cash Pull: Trinidad and Tobago’s Heritage and Stabilisation Fund saw $3.46b withdrawn over two quarters, with NAV slipping by end-December 2025. Balisier House Test Case: The Balisier House probe could become a landmark use of unexplained wealth laws involving a political party, as PNM and UNC trade accusations over campaign finance reform. AI Data Centres Debate: T&T signed MOUs with US firms for major AI data centres, triggering fresh concerns about energy use and environmental impact. Business Under Pressure: TIC 2026 highlighted private-sector opportunity, but forex shortages and operating costs remain major hurdles for manufacturers and SMEs. Public Safety Incident: A Trinidad SRP officer was stabbed during a ride-share trip in San Fernando; police are investigating. National Planning: CSO is preparing for the 2027 census with a 2026 pilot, stressing inclusion for persons with disabilities and migrant communities. Environment Watch: A mud volcano appeared off Trinidad’s coast after earthquakes in Venezuela, with erosion already reported.

Forex crunch at TIC: Small and mid-sized businesses say the Trade and Investment Convention is full of opportunity, but daily FX shortages and banking hurdles are still strangling orders and confidence. SME pressure: Manufacturers at the event described near-impossible access to US dollars through formal channels, forcing reliance on harder-to-use alternatives. Point Lisas investment push: Cabinet has approved MOUs with US firms Pinnacle Steel and Vanadium, plus Hummingbird AI, aimed at nearly US$2 billion in investment and hundreds of jobs at Point Lisas. Energy vs environment: A new Earth Insight report warns T&T’s planned oil and gas expansion puts 100% of its coral reefs within oil-and-gas zones. Corporate FX coping: PriceSmart Trinidad increased US$20.84m in borrowings to secure US-dollar liquidity as FX constraints persist. Politics and transparency: The High Court’s PUWO into PNM Balisi­er House funding is sparking a fresh political fight over “witch hunt” claims and alleged independence of the probe. Water and AI data centres: Government says AI data centres planned for Debe will be in a special economic zone with ponds and later desalination to protect water supply. Corruption investigations: A commentary argues corruption cases in T&T are costly and often end with little closure. Sports: Sarfaraz Ahmed backs Shan Masood to contribute as a senior batter after losing the captaincy ahead of Pakistan’s West Indies Tests.

Unexplained Wealth Probe: The TT Police Service says the High Court has granted a Preliminary Unexplained Wealth Order against the PNM and its trustees over the multimillion-dollar construction of Balisier House, with the matter still before the court and due process ongoing. PNM Pushback: The PNM denies any wrongdoing and says it has not been served with official correspondence or orders, calling it a political witch hunt. Crime & Safety Abroad: The US State Department issued a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory for Saint Lucia, citing violent crime risks including armed robbery and rape, and warning visitors to avoid cash and flashy items. Regional Politics: CARICOM’s 51st Heads of Government meeting in Saint Lucia produced a communiqué, with Trinidad’s Kamla Persad-Bissessar among leaders attending. Energy & Investment: Government signed three MOUs with US firms for major projects including a 300MW data centre, AI/data infrastructure, and discussions on restarting Point Lisas steel production; ExxonMobil also backed T&T’s deepwater exploration push. Business Pressure: The TT Manufacturers’ Association renewed calls to clear VAT refund backlogs, saying delays are hurting reinvestment and jobs. Sports: T&T Under-19s opened their Rising Stars 50-over campaign with a 24-run win over Guyana, while West Indies beat Sri Lanka to secure a first Test series win in 23 years.

Unexplained Wealth Probe: A High Court order compels the PNM to explain funding for its Balisier House headquarters, as TTPS moves under the Unexplained Wealth Act. Power Sector Governance: Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath installed PowerGen’s new board, naming AG John Jeremie’s son Nathan Jeremie deputy chair. Deepwater Energy Push: ExxonMobil says it has nearly finished seismic work in Block TTUD-1 and is moving to assess hydrocarbon potential, backing T&T’s deepwater plans. VAT Refund Pressure: The TT Manufacturers’ Association warns of cashflow strain from a VAT refund backlog and calls for a plan with the Ministry of Finance. Trade & Investment Momentum: Businesses at TIC say they’re adapting to volatility and supply issues, while T&T’s trade mission to Toronto is framed as more opportunity-focused. Regional Cost-of-Living Plan: CARICOM leaders and private sector groups agreed practical steps to improve affordability, including cutting intra-regional trade barriers and pushing a regional cargo ferry. Tobago Jobs: 158 daily-paid workers are set for permanent employment under an OCS/NUGFW agreement. Culture & Sports: Tributes poured in for Mighty Sparrow at 91; West Indies ended a 23-year Test series drought over Sri Lanka. Public Safety: Police and rescue teams began a search after reports of a baby’s body floating in the Marabella river.

CARICOM Cost-of-Living Push: CARICOM leaders met in St Lucia and agreed on measures to ease household expenses, including tax cuts on imported fuel, freight cost adjustments, steps to lower intra-regional cargo costs, more renewable energy, and plans to fast-track a regional ferry service. Power Sector Governance: Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath installed a new PowerGen board—Jasodra Rampersad (chair), Nathan Jeremie (deputy), with Omesh Ramberran and Hardeo Bahall—tasked with strengthening governance and reliability. Broadband for Underserved Areas: TATT launched new broadband infrastructure in Navet under the Universal Service Programme, targeting about 140 homes and linking residents to education, healthcare and jobs. Housing Scam Warning: HDC warned the public about scammers posing as HDC/Ministry agents offering homes outside the official allocation process, saying payments to third parties are likely lost and properties can be reclaimed. Business & Trade: The T&T Chamber’s Canada mission will focus on market readiness and sales training before travel, while MITTCO used TIC 2026 to expand steelpan trade links internationally. Finance: Government completed an oversubscribed US$800m sovereign bond issuance in the US market at a 6.20% coupon. Crime: A 24-year-old woman, Aaliyah Naipal, was charged with the fatal stabbing of Chaguanas businessman Gregory Reece. Transport Deal: Caribbean Airlines launched limited-time discounted one-way Trinidad–Barbados fares from US$142 for selected September 2026 dates.