TTMA Annual Report 2017 E-Mag FAW

THE CEO’S
MESSAGE
DR. MAHINDRA RAMDEEN
The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association continued to
be the strong voice of the manufacturing sector in 2017. The Association
continues to provide a world class service to our membership whilst increasing the value and
growth of the Manufacturing Sector. The year began with a renewed optimism for prosperity and
an even greater push for the sector to become the impetus for diversification.
The TTMA continues to partner with local entities to
improve the competitiveness of manufacturers and
manufacturing. We strive to foster new relationships,
penetrate new markets, drive more business, earn
more foreign exchange and increase employment.
The TTMA has once again taken the initiative for
innovation by launching the Proudly T&T Campaign.
The goal is to inspire our people for a better T&T. By
partnering with our members we are better able to
restore the public’s trust in the business community;
increase faith and hope in the country and inspire the
next generation to become actively involved in the
Manufacturing Sector.
In an effort to widen our membership’s reach, the
TTMA continues to explore and provide opportunities
for market expansion. In 2017 the Association hosted
an outward trade mission to Dominican Republic
which was successfully engaged. TTMA continues to
lobby on behalf of the membership to find solutions
to the US currency supply constraints. We conduct
regular meetings with the relevant authorities and we
are optimistic this problem can be resolved in the not
too distant future.
The year 2017 saw yet another successful staging of the
Trade and Investment Convention. TIC marked its 18th
year and has proven to be the largest trade show of
its kind in the region geared toward creating business,
trade and investment prospects for local businesses.
With over thirty countries having representation at
the Convention and buyers coming in from across
the globe TIC continues to be a showcase for our
manufacturing sector.
As we move into 2018, the TTMA remains committed
to its membership and we are confident that in the
face of unforeseen and anticipated challenges the
manufacturing sector is dynamically equipped to rise
above them. The President, the CEO and the Secretariat
of the TTMA are committed to bringing value to our
members, lobbying on their behalf, fostering ease of
business and to offering support and guidance to the
sector. With continued effort and partnering with you,
our stakeholders, we are optimistic that our goals of
growth and diversification can be realised.
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