TTMA urges members to assist with Haiti earthquake relief effort

The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association joins with the citizens of this country in expressing our profound sympathy to the people of Haiti, which was devastated by a major earthquake on Tuesday 12th January, 2010.  We wish those who suffered losses as a result of this natural disaster comfort and peace in their time of sorrow.

The TTMA’s members stand ready and willing to assist with the relief effort in whatever way we can, whether it is through monetary contributions, or donations of food, clothing, medical and other much-needed supplies. 

The Association has met with several groups, including members of Trinidad Publishing, ANSA MCal, CNC3, Ansa Shipping, Republic Bank, United Way, and TT Chamber, in an effort to determine the best approach to providing immediate relief, in light of the fact that Haiti’s sea ports are inoperable at this time. 

TTMA has been advised that cash donations are urgently needed to facilitate the mobilization of resources already on the ground in Haiti, and persons or organizations wishing to contribute can do so at the following financial institutions:

• Scotia Bank Haitian Earthquake Relief Fund: 400 24 66
• Republic Bank Haiti Relief Fund: 180 482 517 101
• RBTT United Way Haiti Relief Fund: 881-103-969-5
• First Citizens Haiti Relief Fund: 1816404

United Way (representing FEEL, St. Vincent de Paul and Salvation Army) will spear-head collection drives for clothing, food stuff and money. All three will act as collection agencies and will advise of drop off and collection points for various items.  Members can also support ITNAC (Is There Not A Cause) by donating items.  See http://www.itnactt.com/ for more information.

TTMA stands firm in our resolve to assist Haiti and coordinate the donations of our members as soon as we have clarification that our donations will be received and efficiently distributed on the ground in Haiti. As such, we will be working closely with the Red Cross to assess the matter, and in the interim we ask all members to forward any financial aid that they can and await further updates from TTMA over the coming week.

While the extent of the devastation and the impact on Haitian citizens is still emerging, it is clear that sustained action will be required in the coming months to rebuild the country.  TTMA is prepared to work closely with the Government and the relevant aid agencies in assisting with the long-term reconstruction effort.

New Year’s Message from the President of the

Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Secretariat of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association, I wish all our members a bright and prosperous New Year.

2009 was challenging, as the country continued to feel the effects of the global financial crisis.  Local manufacturers were faced with reduced market share as a result of weakening demand for goods, rising transport, labour and security costs, and declining competitiveness.

Business investment, which fell throughout 2009, is likely to remain hindered by excess capacity and weak demand.  Other factors affecting business include the high crime rate and the revised Property Tax, which is likely to increase manufacturers’ operating costs.

While it appears as though 2010 has started on a negative note, with a further decline in manufacturing output expected, we are slowly moving into the recovery phase.  In 2010, TTMA will continue its push for the growth and development of a sustainable manufacturing sector. 

I urge TTMA members to remain optimistic, and prepare themselves to take advantage of the upturn in the economy.

Every crisis brings the opportunity to improve, and it is during times of economic uncertainty that entrepreneurs and businesses ought to be encouraged to maximize efficiency by harnessing new innovative capacities.

There must be increased emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship in an effort towards continuous diversification of the economy. 

T&T’s manufacturers must now focus on developing high value-added products and expanding to new markets outside of CARICOM.

The TTMA stands ready to join the Government and other stakeholders in these shared challenges, working together to build a strong and prosperous Trinidad and Tobago.

To all members of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association, may you succeed in 2010!