History of The Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC)

The Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC) in Trinidad was established in 1994 and officially incorporated in September 1998.

Formation and Purpose: Widely referred to as the Power Chamber, CCIC was formed to serve as the voice of the central business community in Chaguanas. Its vision is to be a “one stop shop” for commercial services for its members, fostering an efficient business environment to enhance prosperity and commercial success.

It was the brainchild of Kenneth Medford (dec), his project manager Vishnu Boodoosingh.

The Beginnings of Chamber

The Chamber was housed at Daisy’s on Market Street for nine years.

The first meeting was held at Kampo Restaurant on Ramsaran Street. Attending was Robert Balroop, Kenneth Medford, Vishnu Boodoosingh, Naresh Roopnarine, Franklyn Marajh, Fleming Joseph and Anon Naipaul.

Its first president was the late Kenneth “Chic” Medford who served from 1994-1997

Sase Narayn Bisnauth joined this team when meetings began at Kampo Restaurant.

Role and Activities: The Chamber works by proactively partnering with governmental and community entities. It offers programs and benefits to address business needs and interests, assists members in connecting, and aims to create a vibrant economy across all sectors.

Advocacy and Representation: A core function of the CCIC has been to promote, develop, and protect the well-being of its members. It represents Chaguanas businessmen on both local and national issues and advocates on matters affecting businesses.

Community and Economic Development: The CCIC is committed to contributing to the socio-economic recovery and broader national development of Chaguanas. It plays a critical role in guiding its membership and the borough toward economic recovery, collaborating with government ministries like the Ministry of Trade and Industry to develop policies and programs for sustainable businesses and economic growth.

Milestones and Initiatives

It has sought increased cooperation with Central-based organisations and State agencies, signing Memorandums of Understanding with entities like YTEPP and Servol’s Chaguanas Regional Life Centre.

The Chamber has also expanded its reach internationally, signing an MoU with the Mississauga Board of Trade 2014, visiting the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in and offering trade missions to Guyana in 2024.

The CCIC regularly hosts monthly breakfast meetings featuring high-level players in government, politics, and economic and social spheres.

They also host an annual awards ceremony to recognise individuals and businesses who have shown resilience, innovation, and philanthropy.

The Power Chamber continues to be a significant pillar of strength in the Borough of Chaguanas, working towards the growth and development of businesses and advancing the commercial, industrial, professional, agricultural, and civic interests of the area.