CCIC sees manufacturing opportunities in borough

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President of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC). Baldath Maharaj says there are ample opportunities for investment in the borough’s manufacturing sector.

Maharaj told a meeting between the CCIC and Invest TT on Thursday at the Passage to Asia Restaurant that Chaguanas must move past its achievement as a retail sector leader and establish its space in manufacturing.

“The Borough of Chaguanas is considered a major industrial hub for investment. Currently, there are two industrial estates in the borough, the Biljah Industrial Park and Chase Village Industrial Park. I firmly believe that more can still be done within the borough, especially if we want to reach city status,” he said.

Maharaj said existing infrastructure at the three eTeck parks located in Chaguanas can be further developed for different industries. He suggested that the Factory Road site be used for light to medium size manufacturing, because of its proximity and easy accessibility to Plipdeco.

“In addition, we already have the natural gas lines and infrastructural developments in place for a smooth transition,” he said.

“Connector Road can be developed into an agro-processing facility since we already have the availability of farmlands and farmers. This is an excellent investment opportunity as we not only have the availability of resources to fulfil the project, but such an investment means securing our future food security.”

The CCIC president said the synergies between the business community and InvesTT can create opportunities in the non-energy sector.

“While we continue to rely on the energy industry, we must also look to other industries. I am sure we can all agree that the economy of T&T is at a critical juncture in terms of how we invest within our markets, not only locally but also internationally as well,” he said.