India and Trinidad and Tobago share an exceptionally deep bilateral relationship rooted in one of the Western Hemisphere's largest Indian-origin diaspora communities. Approximately 35-40% of Trinidad's population — around 500,000 people — are of Indian descent, primarily descendants of indentured labourers (Girmitiyas) brought between 1845 and 1917. This Trinidadian-Indian community has produced prime ministers, presidents, scholars, and Nobel laureates, including V.S. Naipaul. Energy trade, particularly LNG and oil, supplements the diaspora-driven relationship.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Trinidad and Tobago actually work together
4 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
Estimates based on DGFT and UN Comtrade data, FY 2023–24. LNG and petroleum dominate imports; pharmaceuticals and manufactured goods lead exports.
$420m
Total bilateral trade in goods
$180m
India exports to country
$240m
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$0.42bnin FY24 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1845-1917, in 7 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Trinidad and Tobago relations are warm, deep, and multi-dimensional. The Girmitiya diaspora provides an irreplaceable foundation; LNG and pharmaceutical trade are substantial commercial links; and Commonwealth-CARICOM multilateral frameworks provide diplomatic architecture. The relationship is managed through a well-staffed High Commission in Port of Spain. V.S. Naipaul's legacy continues to define the cultural dimension of the bilateral relationship.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalPort of Spain
Population1.4 million
RegionAmericas
Diplomatic tiesSince 1962
Indian diaspora~500,000
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