Residents and business owners across southern Trinidad and Tobago are expressing cautious optimism as government-led efforts to restart the long-idled Pointe-à-Pierre refinery gather momentum, raising hopes of economic revival nearly a decade after its closure.
The refinery, shuttered in 2018 under Petrotrin, remains a central pillar of the region’s industrial identity. Its proposed reopening, now targeted for a phased rollout, has sparked renewed expectations among communities in Marabella, San Fernando, and surrounding districts that once depended heavily on refinery operations.
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Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal confirmed that negotiations are actively underway with a range of international and regional investors. These include major energy players such as Chevron, China National Offshore Oil Corporation, Oando, and Indian Oil Corporation, alongside local stakeholders like the Oilfield Workers Trade Union’s Patriotic Energies and Technologies.
“we have been happily and kindly overwhelmed by expressions of interest… from companies near and far,” Moonilal said, noting that discussions span partners across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
Communities Eager for Economic Revival
For many residents, the refinery’s reopening represents more than industrial activity, it symbolizes recovery from years of economic stagnation. Businesses along the Southern Main Road, once bustling with refinery-linked commerce, have struggled since the closure.
Business owner Stara Dabiedeen reflected on the downturn, saying, “the past eight years have been difficult… businesses closed down and hundreds of people were thrown on the breadline.”
She added, “we want to see marabella get life again, so we welcome the refinery reopening.”
Others, while supportive, are urging caution. Moruga resident Selwyn Charles emphasized the need for strong governance, stating, “when these multinational companies come in here, we have to make sure… they are doing the right thing.”
Workers Hope for a Second Chance
Former refinery employees, many of whom were displaced in 2018, view the restart as a long-awaited opportunity. Winston Harvey, whose father spent four decades at the facility, pointed to the lack of jobs for younger generations.
“since petrotrin closed, the young people cannot find jobs… i am very happy that this refinery is being reopened,” he said.
For others like Hemant Ganesh, a former senior operator with 28 years of service, the closure brought significant hardship. “it was extremely difficult… i had to work as a supervisor at a security firm. the worst part was losing the medical care,” he explained.
Now 55, Ganesh hopes to return to the industry, adding, “i want to go back to work… i hope they will ensure that the pension plan is re-examined.”
Phased Restart and Strategic Importance
The government, under Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has adopted a four-phase restart strategy following recommendations from a Refinery Restart Committee. Officials say the project is both technically and financially viable, particularly amid sustained global demand for refined petroleum products.
Moonilal indicated that at least two refinery units could be operational before year’s end, with further expansion to follow as agreements are finalized.
Meanwhile, Gowtam Maharaj highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s strategic advantages, including proximity to major oil producers like Guyana and Venezuela.
“there’s a significant amount of interest… due to the political stability of trinidad and tobago and also the geographic location,” Maharaj said.
He noted that while a full restart could take up to 39 months, a phased approach could allow initial production within a year, generating early economic returns and employment opportunities.
Economic Impact and Historical Legacy
The refinery, established in 1917, once stood as the largest in the British Empire and played a critical role during World War II. Its closure left a visible mark on surrounding communities, with Maharaj describing parts of Marabella as “a ghost town.”
Beyond its historical significance, the facility remains vital to national energy security and economic performance. The oil and gas sector accounts for over 40 percent of the country’s GDP and roughly 80 percent of exports.
With thousands of jobs expected during refurbishment and more than 1,000 permanent positions projected upon full operation, the refinery’s revival is seen as a cornerstone of broader economic recovery.
“people are in need of this type of sustenance,” Maharaj said.
As negotiations continue and timelines take shape, the people of South Trinidad are watching closely, hopeful that the reopening of Pointe-à-Pierre will restore not only industry, but livelihoods and community stability.
