Trinidad and Tobago

Twin-Island Nation of Energy, Diversity, and Carnival

Trinidad and Tobago is a twin-island republic in the southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. Trinidad is the larger and more industrialized island, while Tobago is known for its beaches and laid-back tourism. The country boasts a diverse population, strong energy sector, and the world-famous Carnival.

Formation and Historical Background

  • Originally inhabited by Arawak and Carib peoples.

  • Colonized by Spain in the late 15th century; Trinidad later ceded to Britain in 1802 and Tobago in 1814.

  • United as a single colony in 1889, and gained independence on August 31, 1962.

  • Became a republic on August 1, 1976, maintaining parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth.

Administrative Information

Attribute Details
Country Name Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Capital Port of Spain
Continent North America (Caribbean)
Official Language English
Currency Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)
Area Approx. 5,130 sq. km
Population Approx. 1.41 million (2025 est.)
Time Zone Atlantic Standard Time (UTC−4)
ISO Code TT
Internet TLD .tt
Calling Code +1-868

Religious Affiliation (Estimated)

Religion Population Share
Christianity (various denominations) ~63%
Hinduism ~20%
Islam ~6%
Other / Unaffiliated ~11%

Government and Leadership

Position Current Officeholder (as of 2025)
President Christine Kangaloo
Prime Minister Keith Rowley (People’s National Movement – PNM)
Government Type Parliamentary republic
Legislature Bicameral – Senate and House of Representatives
Judiciary Supreme Court, Caribbean Court of Justice (final appeal)

Administrative Divisions

The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is administratively divided into:

Municipal and Regional Corporations (Total: 14)

These are the primary local government bodies for Trinidad:

Cities (2):

  1. Port of Spain (Capital city)

  2. San Fernando

Boroughs (3):

3. Arima
4. Chaguanas
5. Point Fortin

Regional Corporations (9):

6. Diego Martin
7. San Juan–Laventille
8. Tunapuna–Piarco
9. Sangre Grande
10. Couva–Tabaquite–Talparo
11. Mayaro–Rio Claro
12. Princes Town
13. Penal–Debe
14. Siparia

Tobago (1 Autonomous Region):

  1. Tobago – Managed by the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) with its own elected legislative body and administrative authority.

Each division (corporation or borough) manages local infrastructure, health, sanitation, and development services within its jurisdiction. Tobago functions with greater autonomy under its own legislative framework.

Local Government Structure

  • Local authorities include regional corporations, boroughs, and city councils.

  • Tobago House of Assembly (THA) manages local governance in Tobago with semi-autonomy.

Leadership & Governance

A vibrant multi-party democracy with regular elections and strong institutions.
Key national priorities include:

  • Diversifying the economy beyond oil and gas

  • Crime prevention and justice reform

  • Climate resilience and environmental protection

  • Digital infrastructure and youth employment

Law Enforcement & Safety

  • Main security bodies:

    • Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS)

    • Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF)

    • Specialized crime, intelligence, and immigration units

  • Challenges:

    • Gang-related violence and trafficking

    • Government focus on community policing and surveillance tech

Economy & Industry

  • Major sectors:

    • Energy (natural gas, oil, petrochemicals)

    • Manufacturing (plastics, food, cement)

    • Financial services

    • Tourism (mainly Tobago)

  • GDP (2024): Approx. USD 25.2 billion

  • Energy exports dominate foreign exchange earnings

  • Government initiatives:

    • Promoting agriculture, ICT, and creative industries

    • Attracting foreign investment and regional trade

Education & Institutions

  • Free and compulsory education from 5 to 16

  • Literacy rate: ~98%

  • Leading institutions:

    • University of the West Indies – St. Augustine Campus

    • University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT)

    • College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT)

  • Focus on:

    • STEM education

    • Scholarships and innovation hubs

    • Skills training for emerging industries

Healthcare

  • Public healthcare is free or low-cost for residents

  • Key facilities:

    • Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex

    • Port of Spain General Hospital, Scarborough Hospital (Tobago)

  • Strong maternal health and immunization programs

  • Investment in mental health and non-communicable disease prevention

Transport & Connectivity

  • Roads: Extensive network with urban traffic challenges

  • Airports:

    • Piarco International Airport (Trinidad)

    • A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (Tobago)

  • Seaports:

    • Port of Port of Spain, Point Lisas, Scarborough Port

  • Ferry services connect Trinidad and Tobago

  • Public transport: Maxi taxis, buses, and rideshare options

Tourism & Attractions

Natural Wonders:

  • Maracas Beach, Asa Wright Nature Centre, Caroni Bird Sanctuary

  • Nylon Pool (Tobago), Main Ridge Forest Reserve

Cultural Highlights:

  • Carnival of Trinidad – one of the world’s largest

  • Steelpan music, calypso, soca

  • Indo-Caribbean traditions, Diwali, and Eid celebrations

Tourism focus:

  • Eco-tourism, festivals, and cultural tourism, especially in Tobago

Culture & Lifestyle

  • Ethnic composition: African, East Indian, Mixed, European, Chinese, and Indigenous

  • Languages: English (official); Trinidadian and Tobagonian Creole dialects

  • Cuisine: Doubles, roti, callaloo, pelau, bake & shark

  • Cultural identity:

    • Rich fusion of African, Indian, and European traditions

    • Known globally for music, carnival, and hospitality

Summary

Trinidad and Tobago is a powerful blend of energy leadership, cultural dynamism, and regional influence. With its strong economy, diverse population, and creative spirit, it stands as a unique model for Caribbean progress and global connection.