Going Together: Jamaican Trade Mission Strengthens Partnership with Trinidad and Tobago

Picture of Tashan Hendricks

Tashan Hendricks

Managing Director

“If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together.” This African Proverb captures well the spirit of the Ministerial Trade Mission to Trinidad and Tobago led by Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce.

COCREATE Caribbean joined a Jamaican delegation of twelve companies on a two-day trade mission to the Twin Islands from March 9 – 10, 2023. The mission sought to create and strengthen trade partnerships in key sectors, including technology, finance, logistics, manufacturing and distribution, and consulting services. It provided an excellent platform for interested Trinidadian companies to explore investment and business opportunities in Jamaica, and vice versa.

This mission marked COCREATE’s first and certainly, we chose the right one. As the agency advocates for collaboration, we saw first hand its potential to transform our region when driven by our Governments. Our delegation was well hosted by the Jamaican High Commission in Trinidad, the Trinidad & Tobago Chamber of Industry & Commerce, Invest TT, and the Trinidad & Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA). Meetings with state officials, including Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry, and the Honourable Colm Imbert, Minister of Finance, served to bolster the commitment to strengthen ties between our two countries. The welcoming atmosphere cultivated by organisers Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) and the host organisations provided a fruitful environment for us to connect, discuss potential collaborations, and explore mutual investment opportunities.

Over the two days, COCREATE joined Jamaican and Trinidadian companies in a series of meetings, presentations, and networking events, to explore opportunities in key sectors. Our Jamaican companies represented a diverse range of sectors, reflecting the dynamic nature of our region’s economy. Through these meetings, both countries garnered a better understanding of each country’s business landscapes and demonstrated an eagerness to cooperate in high-potential sectors, such as digital transformation, sustainable energy, and agri-business.

I believe the trade mission built upon the strong foundations laid by more than 59 years of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. We met with like minds and hearts, recognizing the unique strengths of each country and the value of collaboration, allowing participants to establish and further business relationships that will contribute significantly to the economic growth and development of both nations.

As the Caribbean region continues to evolve and face global challenges, the importance of strong ties between its nations is vital to fostering regional resilience and sustainable growth. by leveraging the diverse talents, expertise, and opportunities found in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, this trade mission has set the stage for increased collaboration and lasting partnerships, benefiting not only the involved businesses but also the Caribbean community at large.

The success of this trade mission signifies a promising future for continued business engagements and government collaboration, of which COCREATE is pleased to be a part. My colleagues in the delegation acknowledged the spirit of partnership that characterised the trip and pledged to maintain these connections moving forward.

COCREATE Caribbean Limited is a partner in transformational creativity. We are business and creative practitioners who support Caribbean entities to boldly bring new or repositioned brands, products and ideas to life. We are Jamaica’s first non-financial organisation to offer Investor Relations as a service. This demonstrates our commitment to creating world-class marketing solutions that bridge the gaps between Caribbean creatives, Caribbean brands and global market while creating sustainable growth for all parties.

COCREATE will continue to seek out innovative ways to foster collaboration for our stakeholders while providing insight into new markets around the world.