Trinidad and Tobago has taken a significant step forward in its embrace of emerging technologies by establishing the Caribbean’s first dedicated Minister of Artificial Intelligence. This groundbreaking appointment, held by The Honourable Dominic Smith, who also retains the portfolio of Minister of Public Administration, signals a strategic pivot towards leveraging advanced technology for enhanced governance and economic growth. The new government, which assumed office on May 1, 2025, has prioritized AI as a cornerstone of its national development agenda.
A Dual Mandate for Modernization
The Hon. Dominic Smith’s appointment integrates the critical functions of Public Administration with the forward-looking domain of Artificial Intelligence. This fusion is designed to streamline government operations, improve the efficiency and responsiveness of public services, and foster innovation across state institutions. Minister Smith brings a robust background in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and public service, holding a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of the West Indies. Before entering Cabinet, he founded a digital consultancy firm in Port of Spain, focusing on digital transformation and data analytics, equipping him with practical insights into leveraging technology for data-driven growth. His responsibilities now encompass modernizing government operations, enhancing service delivery through digital tools, and championing the nation’s Artificial Intelligence strategy, all aligned with the government’s vision of citizen-centered, innovation-driven governance.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Digital Ambitions
This strategic move builds upon Trinidad and Tobago’s existing commitment to digital transformation. The nation has already laid groundwork with initiatives such as the National Digital Transformation Strategy (NDTS) 2024-2027 and the National E-Commerce Strategy 2025-2030. The establishment of a Ministry of Digital Transformation in 2021 was a precursor to this latest development, aiming to propel the country towards becoming a ‘Digital First Government’. While past efforts have faced challenges in communication and impact, the integration of AI at the ministerial level signifies a deeper commitment to harnessing technology not merely as a tool, but as a catalyst for profound societal and economic change. Minister Smith has publicly pledged to embrace emerging technologies such as 5G, AI, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to position Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region as leaders in digital economic growth.
A Regional First in AI Governance
By appointing a Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Trinidad and Tobago places itself at the forefront of technological policy-making in the Caribbean. This initiative aligns with a growing global trend, with only a handful of nations, including the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, having established similar high-level governmental roles dedicated to AI. For the Caribbean, this development presents both immense opportunities and critical challenges. The region is actively grappling with how to best navigate the complex landscape of AI governance, aiming to balance innovation with ethical safeguards, privacy, and equitable access.
Navigating the AI Future: Goals and Collaborations
The establishment of the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence is poised to drive significant advancements. Minister Smith is focused on improving public service delivery, strengthening technological infrastructure, and positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a hub for digital innovation. This ambition is bolstered by strategic international collaborations, such as a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Arab Emirates aimed at accelerating Trinidad and Tobago’s digital future by leveraging the UAE’s expertise in digital identity, border management, and smart government systems.
Regionally, Trinidad and Tobago’s leadership is expected to foster greater collaboration. The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) has been active in establishing an AI Task Force, and UNESCO has outlined a Caribbean AI Policy Roadmap focusing on pillars like Governance & Transformation, Education & Upskilling, and Resiliency & Sustainability. These efforts underscore a collective regional ambition to develop comprehensive frameworks that ensure AI is deployed responsibly, ethically, and for the benefit of all citizens, safeguarding cultural identity while stimulating economic growth.
The path forward involves addressing challenges such as ensuring equitable access to technology, building a skilled workforce, and developing robust regulatory frameworks. As Trinidad and Tobago embarks on this new era, its proactive approach to AI governance sets a compelling precedent for the Caribbean, signaling a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for a more inclusive, efficient, and prosperous future. This news marks a pivotal moment in the region’s technological advancement.