Trinidad and Tobago’s newly sworn-in Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has announced that her administration will actively pursue gas development opportunities with Guyana as part of a broader strategy to revitalize the country’s energy sector and strengthen regional partnerships.

Speaking at her government’s swearing-in ceremony on May 3, Persad-Bissessar highlighted the need for immediate action on energy security and economic diversification. She revealed that her Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, has been mandated from day one to explore Guyana’s offer to supply gas to Trinidad and Tobago. This move is seen as leveraging Trinidad and Tobago’s longstanding expertise in the oil and gas industry while fostering closer ties with CARICOM neighbors.

Persad-Bissessar emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s competitive advantage as one of the world’s oldest oil producers positions the country to market its energy services and infrastructure to the region, including Guyana and Suriname. She also indicated plans to explore energy opportunities with Grenada, citing reports of significant untapped offshore reserves there.

The Prime Minister’s agenda includes a raft of new measures aimed at economic revival, such as repealing the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority Act, introducing new security laws, and boosting investment in agriculture and culture to diversify the economy. However, energy remains at the forefront, with gas deals and regional cooperation identified as top priorities.

The outreach to Guyana comes as that country rapidly expands its oil and gas sector, presenting opportunities for collaboration in processing, technology transfer, and downstream development. Persad-Bissessar’s proactive approach signals a renewed focus on regional energy integration and economic resilience, as Trinidad and Tobago seeks to adapt to changing global and regional dynamics.