The current Minister of Finance of Trinidad and Tobago is Colm Imbert. Appointed in September 2015, following the victory of the People’s National Movement (PNM) in the general election, he has held the position through two consecutive terms. His tenure has been marked by navigating the economic challenges associated with fluctuating global energy prices, a significant factor given Trinidad and Tobago’s reliance on its oil and gas sector.
Imbert, an engineer by profession, is a seasoned politician with a long history in Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament. Prior to becoming Minister of Finance, he served in various ministerial roles, including Minister of Works and Transport. This extensive experience in government has provided him with a deep understanding of the country’s infrastructure needs and the complexities of public sector management.
During his time as Finance Minister, Imbert has focused on fiscal consolidation and diversification of the economy. He has implemented measures aimed at reducing government spending, increasing revenue collection, and promoting non-energy sectors such as tourism and manufacturing. The government has also emphasized improving the ease of doing business to attract foreign investment.
A key feature of Imbert’s budgetary approach has been a focus on prudence and sustainability. Faced with periods of low energy prices, he has consistently stressed the importance of fiscal discipline and responsible management of the country’s resources. This has involved making difficult decisions regarding public sector wages and subsidies, leading to criticism from some quarters.
One of the ongoing debates surrounding Imbert’s tenure revolves around the pace of economic diversification. While progress has been made in certain non-energy sectors, the economy remains heavily dependent on oil and gas. Critics argue that more aggressive measures are needed to stimulate growth in other areas and reduce the country’s vulnerability to global energy market volatility.
Another significant challenge has been managing the country’s debt. Imbert has overseen efforts to restructure and refinance existing debt, aiming to lower borrowing costs and improve the country’s credit rating. However, the debt-to-GDP ratio remains a concern, particularly in the context of ongoing economic uncertainty.
Looking ahead, Imbert faces the task of navigating the post-pandemic recovery, addressing the long-term structural issues facing the economy, and ensuring fiscal sustainability. His ability to effectively manage these challenges will be crucial in determining the future economic prospects of Trinidad and Tobago. He continues to advocate for strategic partnerships and a resilient economic framework to secure the nation’s financial future.