Gross National Product (GNP): US$7.81bn

Exchange rates against the US$ over the last year: 6.14 Trinidad and Tobago dollars (6.087)

SCORE CARD

World GNP ranking: 96th GNP per capita: US$5960 Balance of payments: –US$644m Inflation: 4.2% Unemployment: 13%

Strengths

Oil, which accounts for 70% of export earnings. Gas increasingly exploited to support new industries. Methanol, ammonia, iron, and steel exports. Tourism, especially on Tobago. Strong commercial and financial sectors.

Weaknesses

High dependence on oil and gas. Failing sugar industry and persistent pockets of unemployment.

EXPORTS

IMPORTS

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004