Caption: Officials at the Fui Toong On Association New Year’s Day luncheon, from left are Counselor and Deputy Head of the Chinese Embassy Yang Han, Minister of Transport Eli Zakour, Planning Minister Kennedy Swaratsingh and the Association’s President Joe Chan. AZP/Sue-Ann Wayow
By Sue-Ann Wayow
IN 2025, the bilateral trade between China and Trinidad and Tobago exceeded US $2 billion which was double the amount in 2024.
This was announced by Counselor and Deputy Head of the Chinese Embassy Yang Han on New Year’s Day.
This year is dubbed according to the Chinese Horoscope – the year of the Fire Horse representing speed, passion and opportunity.
Han was the main speaker at the Fui Toong On Association annual New Year’s luncheon held at Achievor’s Banquet Hall, Duncan Village San Fernando.
He said, “Last year, in 2025, the bilateral trade volume between our two countries has exceeded $2 billion US dollars which has doubled compared to the year 2024.”
This year will mark 220 years since the anniversary of the Chinese arrival in Trinidad and Tobago which Han described as a moment of celebration and reflection of great significance for both the Chinese community and others.
Han who brought greetings on behalf of Chinese Ambassador Ren Hongyan encouraged the Chinese community to stick together to strengthen solidarity, engage more in local development and work together for China’s development as it benefits overseas Chinese people.
He also promised, “I promise every Chinese compatriot in T&T that our Chinese Embassy will continue to stand as your strongest and warmest support and try our best to safeguard your legitimate rights and interests.”
However, Han also mentioned that the current era was one with shifts and challenges marked by immense instability and unpredictability.
“Against this backdrop, China and Latin American and Caribbean countries firmly adhere to the principles of mutual respect, extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit,” he said.
Han hailed the contributions made to the Chinese community over the years noting that in 2025, generous donations were made to Jamaica following the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa and relief for the Hong Kong fire.
He also said he was pleased to see many Chinese auto brands in this country such as BYD and GWM mentioning that he was told by a car dealer that Chinese electrical vehicles were in short supply currently because they were of high quality, style and wallet friendly.
As the world’s second largest consumer and import market Han said, “We (China) have expanded two-way economic, trade and investment cooperation through higher-level institution opening-up providing vast business opportunities for countries around the world, including Trinidad and Tobago.”
Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Kennedy Swaratsingh and Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Eli Zakour were amongst the invited guests.
At the luncheon, attendees were treated to a Lion Dance entertainment, the elderly received red money envelopes and many door prizes were given out.
The Association, the oldest Chinese association in T&T existing over 100 years, also held their committee election in which Yu Yu Hui was elected the new president.
Former President Joe Chan served the association for eight years. Speaking at the function, he urged the younger generation to continue what the older ones began and to preserve legacy and history.
