AGP Executive Report

Tourism Access Boost: Spain has added Trinidad and Tobago to a visa-free list for short stays, joining eight other CARICOM nations (up to 90 days in any 180-day period), while Jamaica, Guyana, Suriname, Belize and Haiti remain excluded. Domestic Travel Push: Caribbean Airlines is adding 72 extra flights and 7,656 seats to the Trinidad–Tobago airbridge from 16 July to 31 August, timed for Tobago’s Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. Coast & Beach Protection: The Government is stepping up action against sargassum to protect beaches and tourism, treating the seaweed surge as both an environmental and visitor-experience issue. Tobago Hospitality Pipeline: THA says work on the Elephant Tree Resort and Villas Tobago (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) is moving ahead, while it’s still waiting on the Marriott project to start construction. Safety & Visitor Concerns: A negligence lawsuit is filed against the THA over the jet ski death of 7-year-old Angelica Jogie at Pigeon Point Beach, Tobago. Local Food & Culture: A new Market Day initiative in Sangre Grande aims to revive barter and support community needs, with a tourism-friendly sustainability angle.

Coast & Tourism Protection: The Ministry is stepping up action to protect Trinidad and Tobago’s beaches from sargassum, treating it as both an environmental and tourism priority. Visa-Free Boost to Europe: Spain has added nine CARICOM countries to its visa-free list for short stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period, including Trinidad and Tobago (but not Jamaica, Guyana, Suriname, Belize or Haiti). More Seats for Tobago Visitors: Caribbean Airlines is adding 72 extra flights from July 16–Aug 31, adding 7,656 seats to the Trinidad–Tobago airbridge ahead of the Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. T&T Tourism Safety Alert: A British pub landlady, Elaine McGowan (65), was shot dead in Trincity on July 5 while on holiday, prompting police to hunt for the gunman. Sports on the Ground: Barbados will send a 37-member swimming team to the 30th Annual Goodwill Swimming Championships in Trinidad and Tobago (July 14–16).

Hotel & resort pipeline: Tobago’s THA says work is moving on Ele­phant Tree Resort and Villas Tobago, while it’s still “waiting” on Marriott’s Pleasant Prospect project to begin construction, as the THA targets a $4.12b 2026/27 budget focus on island development. Domestic travel boost: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 flights and 7,656 extra seats on the Trinidad–Tobago airbridge from July 16 to Aug. 31, timed for the Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. Regional connectivity push: CARICOM leaders back a pilot ferry service, with T&T offering a vessel to support improved air and maritime links across the region. Spain visa-free access: Spain grants visa-free entry for up to 90 days (within 180) to citizens of nine CARICOM states including Trinidad & Tobago—Jamaica is not included—making short-stay travel easier for tourism and business. Tourism safety & weather: TTMS issued a Yellow (Localized Flood) alert for southern and eastern Trinidad due to expected rain over saturated ground. Local culture spotlight: Princes Town’s Iere Village is profiled as Trinidad’s “cradle of faith,” with early schools and historic church and mosque sites that could support untapped tourism.

Air Access Boost: Caribbean Airlines is adding 72 extra flights (July 16–Aug 31) to the Trinidad–Tobago domestic airbridge, bringing 7,656 more seats to handle peak-season demand for Tobago’s Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. Visa-Free Travel: Spain has added Trinidad & Tobago (along with eight other CARICOM states) to its visa-free entry list for short stays up to 90 days, while Jamaica is not included—good news for regional visitors planning quick trips. Weather Watch: TTMS issued a Yellow Level Localized Flood Alert for southern and eastern Trinidad (5:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., July 13), warning of possible stream overflow, ponding, road hazards, and landslips. Local Tourism Safety: A reminder for families during school vacation: keeping children safe and supervised is a key concern as routines change. Regional Development: The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation plans a visit to Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Antigua & Barbuda to explore investments in energy and transport infrastructure that could support travel and trade. Major Crime Alert: A British pub landlady was shot dead in Trincity; police continue hunting the gunman—an unsettling story for visitors and residents alike.

Domestic Airlift Boost: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 extra flights between Trinidad and Tobago from July 16 to August 31, bringing about 7,600+ more seats for the peak vacation rush, with Tobago’s Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race driving demand; the added services run alongside the regular schedule using ATR turboprops and Boeing 737s. Weather Watch: TTMS issued a Yellow Level Localized Flood Alert for southern and eastern Trinidad (5:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Monday, July 13), warning that saturated ground plus more rain could trigger localized flooding, ponding, traffic delays, and possible landslips. Travel Rules Update (UK): The UK revised its visa requirements list, with travellers from multiple countries including parts of the Caribbean now needing a valid UK visa before entering or transiting. Family Safety During School Break: A local piece reflects on keeping children safe during the July–August school vacation, urging parents to plan supervision and safer routines. Tobago Airport Update: Transport Minister Eli Zakour says an opening date has been set for the new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal, but it will be announced later once operational readiness is confirmed.

Air Travel Boost: Caribbean Airlines will add 72 extra flights between Trinidad and Tobago from July 16 to August 31, adding 7,656 seats to support peak-season demand, especially for Tobago’s Tobago Heritage Festival and The Great Race. Weather Watch: TTMS issued a Yellow Level Localised Flood Alert for southern and eastern Trinidad (5:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Monday, July 13) as the ITCZ lingers over the area and saturated ground could trigger overflow, ponding, traffic delays, and possible landslips. Tobago Airport Update: Transport Minister Eli Zakour says a date has been set for the opening of the new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal, but it won’t be announced yet until operational readiness is fully met. Regional Tourism & Trade: CARICOM Heads and the regional private sector agreed concrete affordability actions, including steps to strengthen tourism linkages and cut intra-regional trade and logistics costs. Safety & Mobility: The U.S. is expanding investment reach in the Caribbean via the DFC, with a senior official scheduled to visit Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Antigua and Barbuda to explore projects in energy and transport infrastructure.

Tobago Airport Update: Transport Minister Eli Zakour says a date has been set for the opening of the new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal, but won’t share it yet—officials are still checking operational readiness. Tourism & Travel Access: Germany published its 2026 visa-free list for short stays (up to 90 days/180 days), including Trinidad and Tobago, while Pakistan is not included; Spain also released its own visa-free country list for 2026. Regional Security Tech: The US DHS and CARICOM’s IMPACS signed an agreement to share biometric data to strengthen border screening across participating Caribbean countries. Local Tourism Disruption Watch: A mud volcano/extrusion off Palo Seco has been linked to Venezuela’s June 24 earthquakes, with wave erosion already sweeping away part of the new formation. Business Climate for Visitors & Trade: At T&T’s TIC, manufacturers and SMEs say forex shortages and high operating costs are still testing confidence, even as the country courts investment. Sports Tourism Moment: Pakistan’s Test squad has departed for the West Indies, with matches scheduled in Trinidad and Tobago at Brian Lara Cricket Academy and Queen’s Park Oval.

Travel Policy & Visas: Germany confirms a 2026 visa-free list of 62 countries for short stays (up to 90 days), while the UK reiterates visa entry rules for nationals of 100+ countries, including Nigerians. Passport Updates: Pakistan’s passport climbs to 100th on the Henley index, opening access to 30 destinations for summer travel. Regional Security & Borders: The US and CARICOM/IMPACS sign a biometric data-sharing partnership to strengthen screening across participating Caribbean countries. Tourism Growth Watch: Guyana keeps momentum with 107,286 stayover visitors in Q1 2026 (+12%), positioning it as a fast-rising “different kind” Caribbean getaway. Local Tourism & Nature: A mud volcano/mud extrusion has appeared off Palo Seco after Venezuela’s June 24 earthquakes, but wave erosion is already sweeping away part of the new islet. Business Climate for Tourism: TIC exhibitors say forex shortages and high operating costs are testing confidence, even as some firms keep investing. Culture & Events: Christmas in July returns with Parang Under the Stars (July 25) and “Christmas in July” showcases; Tobago Heritage Festival gears up with village-to-village performances. Safety Note: A US travel advisory for Saint Lucia raises crime cautions for visitors.

TIC Momentum for SMEs: Trinidad’s 2026 Trade and Investment Convention drew 411 booths and strong SME interest, but businesses flagged recurring hurdles like economic instability and forex access. Tourism Policy & Regional Trade: CARICOM leaders and private sector groups met in St Lucia to push practical affordability moves—cutting intra-regional trade barriers, lowering transport and logistics costs, and strengthening tourism linkages. Energy vs Nature: A new Earth Insight report warns T&T’s offshore and coastal expansion could put all coral reefs within oil-and-gas zones, raising fresh questions for marine tourism. VAT Refund Pressure: The TTMA says manufacturers are still waiting on VAT refunds, limiting reinvestment and job creation—an issue that can ripple into visitor-facing services. Regional Ferry Debate: Tobago stakeholders question plans for a temporary CARICOM cargo ferry, worried about reliability and whether Tobago’s seabridge needs could be affected. Visitor Travel Updates: The UK reaffirmed visa requirements for Nigerians and over 100 other countries for short stays, while Germany published its 2026 visa-free list of 62 countries. Local Experiences: Parang Under the Stars returns July 25 in Maracas, and Blue Mountain Village’s Reggae on the Mountain runs July 24–26 with a JUNO-winning headliner. Travel Deals: Caribbean Airlines launched limited September one-way fares between Trinidad and Barbados from US$142. On the Trail: A 52-year-old hiker died after collapsing on the Blanchisseuse trail.

Travel Safety: The U.S. State Department raised its advisory for Saint Lucia to “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” citing violent crime risks including armed robbery, assault, and rape, plus slower police response; it urges visitors to avoid flashy items, don’t walk alone at night or on beaches, and watch for scams and drink-tampering. CARICOM & Regional Policy: CARICOM leaders met in Saint Lucia (5–8 July) and marked CARICOM’s 53rd anniversary at Chaguaramas; discussions also focused on affordability, including cutting intra-regional trade barriers and logistics costs, and strengthening tourism linkages. Tobago Tourism & Business Climate: Tobago’s THA says the cost of doing business is higher than Trinidad, with gaps in access to services, raw materials, and capacity-building—while pushing inclusion and sustainable tourism. Regional Trade Logistics: Trinidad offered a temporary cargo ferry to help reduce CARICOM cargo costs, aiming to ease inflation pressures. Air Travel Deals: Caribbean Airlines launched limited-time discounted one-way Trinidad–Barbados fares from US$142 (selected September 2026 dates). Culture & Events: Blue Mountain Village’s Reggae on the Mountain runs July 24–26, featuring JUNO winner Kirk Diamond and T&T-based Freetown Collective.

VAT Refund Pressure: The TT Manufacturers’ Association is urging urgent action on a backlog of VAT refunds, saying delayed payments are choking reinvestment, upgrades, training and jobs, and calling for a new plan with the Ministry of Finance. Regional Cargo Costs: CARICOM leaders met in St Lucia to tackle affordability, with Trinidad offering a temporary vessel to help cut inter-island cargo costs—while Tobago business voices warn about capacity and reliability risks to its seabridge. Tobago Cost of Doing Business: THA says operating costs in Tobago are higher than Trinidad, with limited access to services, raw materials and capacity-building—while pushing inclusion and sustainable tourism. Air Travel Deals: Caribbean Airlines launched limited-time discounted one-way fares between Trinidad and Barbados for select September 2026 dates. Tourism & Culture Angle: A spotlight on St Vincent and the Grenadines’ tourism momentum highlights rainforest hikes, luxury stays and growing visitor numbers—useful inspiration for T&T’s own tourism push. CARICOM Governance: A CARICOM communique confirms the 51st Heads of Government meeting in Gros Islet, with Trinidad’s Kamla Persad-Bissessar among attending leaders.

Air Access & Deals: Caribbean Airlines launched limited-time discounted one-way fares between Trinidad and Barbados from US$142 (selected September 2026 dates), with taxes included on Lite fares—book early for the best availability. Regional Trade Relief: CARICOM leaders in St Lucia heard Trinidad and Tobago is offering a temporary vessel to help cut intra-Caricom cargo costs, aiming to ease inflation pressures tied to trade. Tourism Market Diversification: Trade Minister Satyakama Maharaj says Trinidad is targeting new visitor segments, including yachting—streamlining yacht clearance from four hours to 15 minutes with improved health and immigration processes. Cruise & Excursions: Star Clippers is offering select early-2028 Caribbean/Central America sailings with two free shore excursions per cabin (via a $200 onboard credit) plus a 3GB Wi‑Fi package. Culture & Community: Rotaract District 7030 returns to Antigua after 20+ years, bringing nearly 200 young leaders across the Caribbean, including Trinidad and Tobago. Safety at Sea: Tobago police say the Angelica Jogie jet ski death probe could conclude by end of this week, with the Tobago Marine Park Bill now advanced for review.

Culture & Tourism Marketing: A new push is urged to make Trinidad’s cultural calendar more than a diaspora-only highlight, with calls to better package and promote Carnival, calypso, pan and mas beyond nationals. Caribbean Travel Safety: The U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 “increased caution” warning for Turks and Caicos, citing crime in tourist areas like Providenciales. Local Performing Arts: John Thomas’ “Showtime” brings a Broadway revue-style youth performing arts finale to Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s, running over the weekend. Trade & Visitor Economy: Trade Minister Satyakama Maharaj says Nestlé’s restructuring is an opportunity for local entrepreneurs, while also pushing manufacturers for priority foreign exchange access and targeting new export markets. Yachting as a New Visitor Segment: Trinidad is streamlining yacht entry—cutting clearance from four hours to 15 minutes—with a health office at the main entry point and improved immigration procedures. Regional Connectivity: CARICOM leaders discussed accelerating an intra-regional ferry concept, with Trinidad offering temporary ferry support to move mainly cargo between member states. Tobago Safety & Marine Rules: The Angelica Jogie jet ski death investigation is expected to wrap up soon, and the Tobago Marine Park Bill is advancing after the incident. Food & Local Flavor: A feature spotlights doubles as a beloved, early-morning Trinidad breakfast culture—another angle for tourism through everyday taste.

Tourism Diversification: Trade, Investment and Tourism Minister Satyakama Maharaj says Trinidad and Tobago is targeting a new visitor segment by moving to make yacht arrivals easier—yacht clearance cut from four hours to 15 minutes, with a health office at the main entry point and improved immigration procedures. CARICOM Cost-of-Living Push: At the CARICOM Heads meeting in St Lucia, leaders said they can’t fully control fossil-fuel-driven price swings, but are pushing renewable energy to stabilise the region’s economy. Regional Transport Proof-of-Concept: St Lucia’s PM Phillip J Pierre says Trinidad will temporarily provide a ferry to move mainly cargo among CARICOM states to help reduce costs and support intra-regional connectivity. Trade Links Beyond the Region: Maharaj also outlined efforts to broaden export markets, naming Ghana as a gateway to ECOWAS, while the T&T and Guyana chambers sign an MoU to tackle non-tariff barriers. Travel Convenience Watch: Concerns over passport booklet availability are being denied by the Homeland Security Ministry, which says stock is sufficient for the shift to biometric e-passports. Safety & Tourism Impact: Tobago’s Angelica Jogie jet ski probe could end this week, while TTPS reports 493 arrests in the Eastern Division and investigations continue after firearms were found at Belmont Police Station. Family Holiday Deals: Caribbean Airlines launches a three-day flash sale on Trinidad–Orlando flights, with travel dates running July 13 to Aug 31.

Passport & Travel Access: Trinidad and Tobago faces fresh scrutiny over passport booklets as officials deny a shortage but Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles demands exact inventory figures amid the shift to biometric e-passports. Regional Connectivity: CARICOM leaders discussed an affordable intra-regional ferry push, with Trinidad set to provide a temporary ferry to move mainly cargo between member states. Air Travel Deals: Caribbean Airlines launches a three-day flash sale on Trinidad–Orlando one-way fares (from US$338 outbound, US$262 return) for travel July 13–Aug 31. Tourism & Culture: Tobago’s Bucoo is calling for stronger marketing and coordination to revive its tourism pull, while Trinidad’s doubles culture gets a spotlight in a “More Than Breakfast” feature. Sports Tourism: Guyana hockey teams arrive for Trinidad’s inaugural IPH Outdoor Tournament (July 9–12), and Bushy Park gears up for the GT Challenge de las Américas in Barbados (Aug 29–30). Safety & Alerts: The Met Office warns of strong winds and rough seas; TTPS also reports no officers arrested after a Belmont station search.

Passport Pressure: Trinidad and Tobago faces public concern over passport booklets after reports of long appointment delays and slower processing; Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander denies any shortage, saying stock is sufficient for the biometric e-passport transition, though critics want inventory numbers made public. Summer Flight Deal: Caribbean Airlines launches a three-day flash sale on Trinidad–Orlando one-way fares—starting US$338 (T&T to Orlando) and US$262 (Orlando to T&T)—for travel July 13 to Aug 31. Travel Safety Alert: The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service warns of strong winds from July 7 night to July 9 afternoon, with gusts over 55 km/h possible, plus choppy seas—be cautious if you’re heading to beaches or boating. Tourism & Community: Tobago’s Bucoo is spotlighted as a village with world-class assets but lacking coordinated marketing and renewal efforts. Culture & Heritage: Lopinot’s eco-tourism and chocolate heritage gets attention as a living museum near the Northern Range. Regional Tourism Mood: Holland America announces a bigger 2027–2028 Caribbean season with more itineraries and longer stays, including calls at Half Moon Cay.