February 24, 2026 — Tobago’s business community is holding its breath as the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) begins a formal assessment of the financial fallout from recent cargo disruptions. With the Blue Wave Harmony expected to hit full commercial speed by March 1st, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine says the island must move beyond speculation to hard data.
During a virtual media conference on Sunday, the Chief Secretary apologized for the “lapse in communication” and acknowledged that Tobagonians’ patience is “rightfully running thin.” He revealed that the Division of Finance, Trade and the Economy has been tasked with quantifying the economic blow to businesses from January 12—when the MV Cabo Star was decommissioned—to the current period of limited operations.
Key developments in the push for business relief include:
Data-Driven Decisions: Augustine emphasized that while compensation is being “considered,” no promises will be made until a clear picture of the economic damage is established.
Strained Supply Chains: While large supermarkets are managing, rural “parlours” and shops are facing severe shortages of basic items like bread, butter, and snacks.
Construction at a Standstill: Hardwares have reported daily sales drops as high as $15,000 due to the inability to source cement, steel, and bitumen.
Studley Park Impact: The THA’s own Studley Park Enterprises Ltd has been affected, struggling to move bitumen from Trinidad for local road-building operations.
Beyond immediate relief, the Chief Secretary signaled a move toward greater regional resilience. The THA is researching the feasibility of maintaining a three-month food supply on the island to cushion against future port disruptions in Port of Spain. Augustine also reiterated his demand for the THA to have a seat at the table in the procurement process for a permanent cargo vessel, vowing not to repeat the “uncertainty and upheaval” of previous vessel transitions.
Reporter Jewel Greene-George reports on the push for business relief and food security.
