The UNC-led government of Trinidad and Tobago is set to present its highly anticipated 2025-2026 budget on October 13, marking its first fiscal plan since taking office nearly six months ago. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo will deliver the budget, which aims to address a range of pressing national issues while balancing ambitious policy goals with fiscal realities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has emphasized priorities such as supporting children, low-income households, and job creation, though the budget may face a deficit due to the country’s borrowing and expenditure trends over the past decade. Key areas of focus include national security, economic diversification, and energy sector rehabilitation. The government has already made strides in fulfilling manifesto promises, such as reopening the Couva Children’s Hospital, restarting the student laptop program, and negotiating wage increases for public sector workers. However, challenges remain, including addressing crime, reviving make-work programs, and reducing reliance on oil and gas revenues. The budget is expected to outline targeted initiatives in agriculture, manufacturing, and small business development, reflecting the government’s commitment to economic diversification and inclusive growth.
2025/2026 budget to be presented on October 13: Will the UNC deliver on its promises?
