Sole Traders Must Pay Their Taxes

Running a sole trader business is a legal privilege, not a grey area. When income goes undeclared, compliant businesses are left carrying the weight for everyone else. Tying sole trader registration to a valid BIR number is a firm but necessary step to restore balance, improve compliance, and remind business owners that participation in the economy requires contribution, not avoidance.

New Marriage Officer Approvals Show Progress but Highlight Need for Full Modernization

The approval of thirty new Marriage Officers is a positive sign after years of delays, lost files, and uncertainty for applicants. It brings relief to religious and cultural groups that depend on these officers for important family and community functions. Still, the move also exposes how outdated the current system is. A digital application process with clear timelines and proper tracking is urgently needed. Until the backlog is cleared and a modern system is in place, many applicants will continue to face long waits and inconsistent results.

New Ministry of Land and Legal Affairs Signals Reform and Efficiency

The creation of the Ministry of Land and Legal Affairs, which brings together state land, mapping, surveying, and leasing functions, promises a more efficient and transparent system for Trinidad and Tobago. Under Minister Saddam Hosein, long-standing delays in land distribution, such as the issuance of Caroni leases, are being addressed, benefiting both citizens and legal professionals. With coordinated departments, better recordkeeping, and potential digital modernization, the reform aims to streamline approvals, reduce backlogs, and restore public confidence in land administration.