Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

The Authority & Governance.

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The Authority & Governance

Our Governance Framework

The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) operates under a structured governance framework established by the Special Economic Zones Act, 2022. This framework ensures transparency, regulatory oversight, and strategic leadership in the management and development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), fostering a robust environment for investment and economic growth.

Karen Tom Yew-Jardine

Message from the Chairperson

“The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority stands as a deliberate fusion of strategic oversight and technical expertise. Our team of Directors reflects this balance—comprising nine appointed experts from law, finance, engineering, and business leadership, alongside three private sector representatives and key government technocrats.

Our Core Mandate is Threefold:

  • Regulatory Stewardship – Defining and enforcing the operational framework for all Special Economic Zone (SEZ) activities.
  • Strategic Advisory – Delivering data-driven policy recommendations to the Honourable Minister responsible for Trade.
  • Economic Catalyst – Attracting productive investment while safeguarding national interests.

Our SEZ framework is distinguished by designated zones, a strong institutional foundation, and a dynamic set of incentives. But more than just geographic areas, these zones represent a comprehensive investment ecosystem—designed to drive economic diversification, attract high-value industries, create employment, and boost export competitiveness.

The SEZs are where ambition becomes opportunity—where international enterprises establish a presence, and local entrepreneurs rise to meet global standards. As an Authority, we are here to remove barriers, support growth, and ensure that your success contributes to a stronger, more resilient Trinidad and Tobago.

We are both a Facilitator—streamlining the investor journey and accelerating business operations—and a Regulator—preserving the integrity of the SEZ regime through transparency, compliance, and alignment with national development goals.

Since our establishment, the Authority has made significant progress in creating an enabling environment for sustainable growth. We continue to refine processes, enhance investor support, and build strategic partnerships that drive long-term impact.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to evolving with global economic trends, embracing digital innovation, and fostering public-private collaboration—paving the way for a new era of prosperity in Trinidad and Tobago.”

Stephen de Gannes

Message from the CEO

At the Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority, we are proud of the significant progress made in advancing the development of Special Economic Zones nationwide. Our mission is focused on driving sustainable, inclusive growth by expanding opportunities in key non-energy sectors such as Manufacturing, Maritime Services, Agriculture and Agro-processing, Fishing and Fish Processing, ICT, Creative Industries, Financial Services, Renewable Energy, Logistics and Distribution, and Business Process Outsourcing.

We are equally committed to supporting enterprises of all sizes—from large-scale investors to small and micro businesses—ensuring that economic development is broad-based and benefits all levels of society. As we look ahead, we see immense potential for diversification, particularly in emerging high-value sectors such as Medical Tourism, Aviation Services, and other knowledge-intensive industries.

The Authority remains dedicated to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts both local and international investment. Through a robust incentive framework—including tax relief and trade facilitation—we have successfully engaged a wide range of businesses, from Business Process Outsourcing firms to manufacturers contributing critical foreign exchange to the economy. Licensing successes highlight enduring confidence in the regime and SEZAs commitment to economic growth for Trinidad and Tobago.

We are excited to be shaping a more vibrant, diverse, and resilient economy for Trinidad and Tobago—one that creates lasting value for current and future generations.

Board Structure & Responsibilities

Our Board ensures strategic alignment with SEZA’s objectives, overseeing organizational performance with integrity and accountability, as outlined in the SEZA Act.

Board of Directors

SEZA is governed by an eleven-member Board of Directors, appointed in accordance with the SEZ Act. The Board is responsible for providing policy direction, regulatory oversight, and strategic decision-making to facilitate the sustainable development of SEZs.

The Board consists of

The Chairman and Deputy Chairman are appointed by the Minister of Trade and Industry from among the Board members, excluding the CEO.

Board Responsibilities

The Board plays a pivotal role in overseeing SEZA’s regulatory framework, guiding investment policies, and ensuring the successful operation of SEZs. Key responsibilities include:

SEZA Leadership & Board Appointments

The current SEZA Board was formally appointed on July 26, 2022, with members bringing expertise in key economic and regulatory sectors. The appointed directors include:

Karen Tom Yew-Jardine

Chairman

Sharon Mohammed

Deputy Chairman

Aisha Donaldson

Director

Stephen Rodriguez

Director

Yugesh Kumar-Rudra

Director

Elena Araujo

Director

Irfan Hosein

Director

Matthew Jones

Director

Bernard Shepherd

Director

Management

Anastacia Samuel-James

Manager Operations

Sean Caesar

Manager Compliance

This team is entrusted with driving SEZA’s vision of transforming Trinidad and Tobago into a competitive investment hub through well-regulated and strategically developed Special Economic Zones.

Strategic Vision & Objectives

SEZA’s governance framework is designed to support national economic goals while ensuring accountability, compliance, and investor confidence. The Authority is committed to:

Through strong governance, strategic oversight, and a commitment to global investment standards, SEZA continues to drive the sustainable growth of Trinidad and Tobago’s Special Economic Zones.