Key Facts

GDP (ppp) per CAPITA

$23,600 (2008 est.)

Inflation Rate

12% (2008 est.)

Population

1,229,953 (July 2009 est.)

Country Risk Ratings

A3

Ease of Doing Business

80/181

Global Competitiveness

3.85/134

Country Map

View Larger Map

gE Network

There are 9 members in the
gE Network for this country.

Trinidad and Tobago : Introduction

First colonized by the Spanish, the islands came under British control in the early 19th century. The islands' sugar industry was hurt by the emancipation of the slaves in 1834. Manpower was replaced with the importation of contract laborers from India between 1845 and 1917, which boosted sugar production as well as the cocoa industry. The discovery of oil on Trinidad in 1910 added another important export. Independence was attained in 1962. The country is one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean thanks largely to petroleum and natural gas production and processing. Tourism, mostly in Tobago, is targeted for expansion and is growing. The government is coping with a rise in violent crime.

Trinidad and Tobago: Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago

The main responsibilities of the Central bank of Trinidad and Tobago include issuing and redeeming currency, maintaining financial stability, acting as a banker, and protecting the external value of the TT dollar. The website provides statistics, a Monetary Policy Report, and research papers.

Trinidad and Tobago: The Trinidad & Tobago Stock Exchange

Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (August 2009)