Trinidad and Tobago PM Addresses Scrap Iron Industry Crime and Regulatory Enforcement

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar accused elements of the scrap iron industry of organized crime, stating that collectors caused job losses due to continued criminal activities. This followed the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism announcing that the one-year extension under the Scrap Metal Act expired on October 14, 2026. The Ministry is now working with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service to monitor compliance and enforce the law, which may result in statutory penalties and fines.

The expiration of the Scrap Metal Act and the subsequent enforcement action by the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism could lead to industry shutdowns and economic disruption in Trinidad and Tobago. The Prime Minister's statements highlight a labor crisis within the scrap iron sector.

The government of Trinidad and Tobago is moving forward with industry plans, with expectations of announcements from Kamla Persad-Bissessar.