July 29, 2026:- The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Division of Food Security of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), has successfully concluded the Trinidad component of a comprehensive Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Simulation Exercise, significantly strengthening the country’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to transboundary animal disease outbreaks.
The exercise was conducted under the FAO Technical Cooperation Programme TCP/TRI/4001 – Animal Disease Outbreak Response in Trinidad and Tobago and formed part of a broader national preparedness initiative aimed at enhancing coordination and emergency response capabilities across multiple sectors.
Bringing together veterinary professionals, laboratory personnel, emergency management agencies, public health officials, law enforcement, communications specialists and senior decision-makers, the simulation tested national systems through a series of practical and strategic activities. These included field response drills, laboratory simulation exercises, specialized risk and outbreak communications training, and a national tabletop exercise during which participants responded to evolving outbreak scenarios, assessed policy decisions, coordinated resource mobilization and evaluated national response capabilities under simulated emergency conditions.
Addressing participants during the tabletop exercise, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, underscored the importance of investing in preparedness before a disease emergency occurs.
“Preparedness is not built during a crisis; it is built long before one emerges. Exercises such as these enable us to validate our systems, strengthen institutional coordination, identify operational gaps and ensure that Trinidad and Tobago remains equipped to respond swiftly, decisively and collaboratively to emerging animal health threats. Through continued investment in resilient veterinary services, strong partnerships and evidence-based planning, we are safeguarding our livestock sector, protecting rural livelihoods, strengthening food security and contributing to national resilience.”
Minister Ratiram further emphasized that diseases such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza transcend institutional boundaries and require a coordinated national response that integrates animal health, public health, environmental management, emergency services and strategic communications.
Dr Gillian Smith, FAO representative for Trinidad and Tobago (ad interim) shared the Minister’s sentiments, as she emphasised the importance of investing in preparedness today to reduce risks tomorrow. “Animal disease outbreaks can have significant impacts on livelihoods, food security, public health, and trade. We are mindful that the success or failure of crisis management and mitigation responses affects the livelihoods of farmers in a very direct way. The lessons and recommendations emerging from this exercise will contribute to stronger national resilience and more effective emergency response mechanisms.”
The simulation exercise reflects FAO’s continued technical support to Trinidad and Tobago in enhancing veterinary services, strengthening emergency preparedness and promoting resilient animal health systems that align with international standards and global best practices.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries reaffirms its commitment to working closely with national, regional and international partners to strengthen disease surveillance, emergency preparedness and coordinated response mechanisms. Through sustained collaboration and evidence-based action, the Ministry continues to safeguard the livestock and poultry sectors, protect rural livelihoods, strengthen food security and enhance national resilience.
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July 20, 2026:- On Saturday 18th July, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, marked another significant milestone in Trinidad and Tobago’s agricultural diversification and food security agenda with the successful harvest of corn cultivated under the Ministry’s Pilot Programme for Black Eye Bean, Corn and Soya Beans Production.
The harvest brought together Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Executive Director of the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) Ansari Hosein, technical officers and farmers to observe the progress of the initiative, which forms part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic feed grain production, enhance food security and reduce dependence on imported agricultural commodities.
Speaking at the harvest, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, described the successful harvest as another important milestone in the Ministry’s commitment to building a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector.
“This harvest demonstrates the tremendous potential for producing feed corn locally and reinforces our commitment to strengthening Trinidad and Tobago’s food production systems through science, innovation and strategic partnerships. By investing in research-driven initiatives such as this pilot programme, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient livestock sector, reducing our dependence on imported feed grains and creating new opportunities for sustainable agricultural growth.”
Minister Ratiram also noted that the project will continue to undergo comprehensive technical evaluation to assess production efficiency, yield performance and opportunities for phased expansion into larger-scale commercial cultivation.
The harvested grain from the pilot crop is being dried at the National Seed Bank, where it will undergo further nutritional and food safety analysis, then shared with local feed mills and livestock farmers for feedback on its potential for use as a replacement to imported corn grain and utilized for ongoing animal feed research. Further scientific analysis will be conducted by CARDI to support future varietal selection and production research to replicate the above-average yields noted during this first harvest as the Ministry advances the next phase of the programme.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to advancing sustainable, production-driven agriculture capable of supporting economic diversification, food import bill reduction, strengthening the livestock sector and improving national food security through strategic initiatives such as the Pilot Programme for Black Eye Bean, Corn and Soya Beans Production.
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June 5, 2026: – The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, through its Forestry Division and in partnership with the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), today commemorated World Environment Day 2026 with a tree-planting initiative at the St. Michael Agro Forestry Hillside Station, reaffirming its commitment to environmental stewardship, ecosystem restoration and national climate resilience.
Among those participating in the initiative were Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries; The Honourable Roger Alexander, Minister of Homeland Security and Member of Parliament for Tunapuna; Ms. Michelle Anne Thomas, Permanent Secretary (Ag.) in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries; Mr. Doolar Ramlal, Chairman of the Environmental Management Authority; Dr. Joth Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the Environmental Management Authority; and Mr. Ameer Roopnarinesingh, Acting Conservator of Forests.
A total of 156 trees, including Cedar, Mahogany, Cypre, Chennet, Pommerac, Avocado, Caimet and Jabuticaba were planted during the exercise. The species were selected for their ecological value and capacity to support carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, watershed protection and long-term ecosystem resilience.
Senator the Honourable Roger Alexander, Minister of Homeland Security and Member of Parliament for Tunapuna, highlighted the importance of environmental protection as a critical component of national security, particularly in the context of food security, climate resilience and disaster risk reduction.
“Protection is at the heart of national security, and that includes protecting our environment. When we plant a tree today, we are investing in our future and strengthening food security. Climate change is real, and we all have a responsibility to preserve the environment for future generations,” Minister Alexander stated.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Ratiram expressed his gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Homeland Security for recognizing food security and environmental sustainability as a National Security matter and emphasized the critical relationship between environmental sustainability and national development.
“Environmental sustainability and agricultural sustainability are intrinsically linked. Healthy forests protect our watersheds, support biodiversity, strengthen food security and provide the ecosystem services necessary for sustainable economic growth. Every tree planted today represents an investment in climate resilience, environmental restoration and future generations,” the Minister said.
Also participating in the exercise Senator the Honourable Roger Alexander, Minister of Homeland Security, underscored the growing need to recognize environmental sustainability and food security as critical components of national security.
“National security extends beyond traditional law enforcement. It includes our capacity to safeguard the resources that sustain our people and our economy. Food security and environmental sustainability should be recognized as matters of national security.” Minister Alexander stated.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (Ag.), Ms. Michelle Anne Thomas, highlighted the importance of collective action and institutional collaboration in responding to global environmental challenges.
“Environmental protection requires a whole-of-society approach. Through partnerships such as this between the Forestry Division and the Environmental Management Authority, we are demonstrating how coordinated action can deliver meaningful and lasting environmental outcomes. Today’s initiative is a practical investment in our natural capital and a tangible contribution to building a more resilient and sustainable Trinidad and Tobago,” she stated.
The event also marked a significant milestone for the Forestry Division as it celebrates 125 years of service to Trinidad and Tobago. Since its establishment in 1901, the Division has played a pivotal role in sustainable forest management, wildlife conservation, watershed protection, environmental education and ecosystem restoration.
Participants also acknowledged the Environmental Management Authority’s continued leadership in environmental governance and awareness-building as the institution celebrates 31 years of service to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 and led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is recognized as the world’s largest global platform for environmental outreach, engaging millions of people in environmental action across more than 150 countries.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to advancing sustainable land management, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and climate resilience through strategic partnerships, evidence-based policy interventions and community engagement initiatives.
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May 22, 2026:- Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, has commended the dedicated efforts of the Praedial Larceny Squad (PLS) following the swift recovery of allegedly stolen cattle belonging to a farmer from Enterprise.
The incident occurred on May 19, 2026, when a farmer reported the alleged theft of seven cattle to the Central Praedial Larceny Squad. Acting swiftly, officers launched an investigation that quickly led to the identification of a vehicle registration number believed to be linked to the theft.
Further investigations took officers to Morvant, where the Praedial Larceny Squad coordinated efforts with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS). Accompanied by the victim, officers conducted enquiries at the location and successfully identified and recovered four of the stolen animals.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the remaining three cattle had been transported to the Penal district and sold. Several individuals have since been detained in connection with the matter, while investigations remain ongoing.
Minister Ratiram praised the coordinated response and professionalism demonstrated by both agencies, emphasizing that the successful operation highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating praedial larceny and protecting the livelihoods of farmers across Trinidad and Tobago.
“Praedial larceny offenders will feel the full brunt of the law,” Minister Ratiram stated.
Recognizing the serious impact of praedial larceny on the agricultural sector, Minister Ratiram reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the Praedial Larceny Squad’s operational capabilities. In the past year, the Ministry has expanded the PLS fleet from one operational vehicle to nine, significantly enhancing response capacity. Additionally, plans are underway to introduce an Air Support Unit to further bolster anti-praedial larceny efforts.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries continues to encourage farmers and members of the public to report suspicious activities promptly and to work closely with law enforcement authorities to safeguard the nation’s agricultural sector.
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May 9, 2026:- The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries today, officially inaugurated the Brechin Castle Agro-Processing Facility in Couva, marking a major step in the Ministry’s ongoing drive to modernize and industrialize Trinidad and Tobago’s agro-processing sector.
The Brechin Castle Agro-Processing Facility is designed to process high volumes of agricultural produce, reduce post-harvest losses, absorb market surpluses, and convert raw commodities into value-added, export-ready products. The facility also strengthens the country’s agro-industrial capacity through improved processing, packaging, shelf-life extension, and export readiness.
The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar S.C. M.P., Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to strengthening food security and empowering local farmers through value-added agriculture. During her address, the Prime Minister stated, “This is agriculture driven not only by cultivation, but also by processing, branding, exports and innovation,” as she highlighted the transformative role of the Brechin Castle Agro-Processing Facility in advancing the nation’s agricultural sector. The Prime Minister also expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of India for their support in making the facility possible, describing the initiative as a symbol of the enduring partnership and shared developmental goals between Trinidad and Tobago and India.
Speaking at the event, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries described the facility as a transformative investment capable of redefining the future of agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago. “Today, we are not simply opening a facility. We are activating a new economic frontier for Trinidad and Tobago. This is not incremental progress. This is a structural transformation,” the Minister stated.
Minister Raitram further emphasized that the facility forms part of a broader strategy to reposition agriculture as a modern, technology-driven and globally competitive industry capable of generating sustainable economic growth, strengthening food security, stabilizing markets, and increasing foreign exchange earnings through export expansion.
The Minister also acknowledged the continued partnership and support of the Government of India in strengthening agricultural development, technical cooperation, and institutional capacity building in Trinidad and Tobago.
Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of the Republic of India, the Honourable Sean Sobers, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, the Honourable Barry Padarath, Minister of Public Utilities and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and The Honourable Saddam Hosein, Minister of Land and Legal Affairs and Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries also delivered remarks.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to expanding strategic agricultural infrastructure and creating increased opportunities for farmers, agribusinesses, and investors throughout the agricultural value chain.
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April 28, 2026:- Trinidad and Tobago is positioning itself to secure a competitive foothold in the global specialty pepper market, as the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries intensifies efforts to modernize production systems, expand value-added processing, and strengthen export readiness across the agricultural sector. This was underscored by Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, as he addressed participants at the Hot Pepper Production for High Yields and Profitability Workshop hosted by the MarVista Institute for Agriculture Training and Development.
The two-day workshop brings together farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and technical stakeholders to strengthen production practices, improve crop quality, and expand opportunities within value-added and export markets for the pepper industry.
In delivering remarks, Minister Ratiram underscored the strategic importance of the pepper industry to Trinidad and Tobago’s economic diversification agenda, noting the country’s globally recognized pepper varieties as a key competitive advantage within expanding international markets.
“The pepper industry represents a clear opportunity for Trinidad and Tobago, not only to meet domestic demand, but to compete, differentiate, and lead on the global stage,” Minister Ratiram stated.
The Minister further highlighted that global demand for pepper-based products continues to expand, driven by growth in the international hot sauce market and increasing industrial applications of capsaicin across food systems, pharmaceuticals, and personal defense products. He noted that value-added production, particularly pepper mash, presents a viable pathway for export expansion, improved income stability for farmers, and stronger integration within agro-processing value chains.
Participants will engage in technical sessions focused on improving agronomic performance through enhanced irrigation practices, structured crop management, pest and disease control, and nutrient optimization. These interventions are expected to support higher yields, improved consistency, and greater alignment with market requirements.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to creating an enabling environment for sustainable agricultural development, with a focus on innovation, resilience, and market competitiveness.
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April 22, 2026:- On April 21, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries formally launched the Cocoa and Coffee Steering Committee at the Rio Claro Demonstration Station, marking a significant step toward strengthening governance, enhancing value chain coordination, and accelerating the sustainable development of Trinidad and Tobago’s cocoa and coffee industries.
The establishment of the Steering Committee represents a strategic policy intervention designed to align institutional efforts, eliminate fragmentation, and drive a coherent, results-oriented approach to sectoral development. The Committee will function as a high-level coordination and oversight mechanism, bringing together key public sector agencies, research institutions, financial bodies, and industry stakeholders to guide the implementation of targeted initiatives across the cocoa and coffee value chains.
In delivering remarks, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, underscored the critical importance of structured governance in unlocking the full economic potential of these sectors.
The Minister further emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader agenda to reposition agriculture as a viable engine of economic diversification, rural development, and foreign exchange generation. Particular focus will be placed on increasing productivity through farm rehabilitation and improved agronomic practices, strengthening post-harvest quality systems, expanding value-added processing, and enhancing market access through branding, certification, and traceability systems.
The Honourable Nicholas Morris, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Mayaro, was also in attendance, along with Chief Technical Officer Dr. Michelle Mellowes, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and Professor Pathmanathan Umaharan of the Cocoa Research Centre, among other key stakeholders.
The Steering Committee will also oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive sector action plan, incorporating measurable performance indicators, defined timelines, and clear institutional responsibilities.
In addition to strengthening domestic production systems, the initiative seeks to leverage emerging global demand for premium, ethically sourced, and sustainably produced cocoa and coffee. Trinidad and Tobago’s positioning within the fine/flavour cocoa category provides a competitive advantage that the Ministry intends to fully capitalize on through strategic partnerships, innovation, and targeted investments.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative and to drive long-term growth and resilience within the sector.
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April 15, 2026:- Trinidad and Tobago’s position as a global leader in fine flavour cocoa was reinforced at the 2025 Edition of the Cacao of Excellence Recognition Ceremony, hosted by the Cocoa Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited today, Wednesday 15th April 2026, at the Dennis P. Ramdhan Complex, Couva, as the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries signaled an accelerated push to scale the sector into a high-value, export-driven industry.
During his feature address, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, used the platform to articulate a clear and assertive policy direction for the cocoa industry, positioning it as a central pillar in the national agenda for economic diversification, rural transformation and foreign exchange generation. He reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s elite status as a producer of 100 percent fine flavour Trinitario cocoa, while emphasizing that sustaining this position requires deliberate investment, regulatory alignment and market-focused strategy.
“This is not simply about preserving a legacy industry, this is about aggressively positioning Trinidad and Tobago as the global benchmark for fine flavour cocoa. We are moving with the intention to protect our brand, expand our market share and ensure that our producers capture greater value in an increasingly competitive international space,” Minister Ratiram stated.
The ceremony also featured remarks from Mr Shankar Teelucksingh, Chairman of the Cocoa Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited; Dr Darin Sukha, Chair of the Cacao of Excellence Technical Committee; and Ms Annalean Inniss, Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, all of whom reinforced the importance of quality governance, technical excellence and institutional collaboration in maintaining the country’s global standing.
A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of national awardees Carlisle Pemberton, Deosaran Jagroo and Mariella Pierre-Peschier, whose international success continues to validate the country’s reputation for producing world-class cocoa and reinforces the impact of ongoing sectoral investments.
The ceremony ultimately reflected a coordinated and forward-looking approach, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, to build a modern, resilient and globally competitive cocoa industry, one that leverages its historic legacy while decisively advancing toward a high-value future.
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