Economist Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon expects the upcoming budget to give focus to expanding non-energy sectors to boost growth, increase exports and earn more foreign exchange.
Speaking with 103.1FM News, Dr Arjoon says this is especially important given this country’s recent modest economic growth.
Dr Arjoon notes that while the food processing sector has grown by nearly 98% since 2019, economic diversification must also include opportunities to strengthen local food production.
This, he says, has the potential to reduce T&T’s dependence on imported goods and lower the food import bill.
Meanwhile, Dr Arjoon also hopes to see the Government to address costly port delays, which he says are adding to the operating costs of businesses already struggling with high expenses.
He said streamlining procedures could help reduce additional charges and make it easier to do business in T&T.
Finance Minister Dave Tancoo will present the 2026/2027 National Budget in the House of Representatives on Monday afternoon.
