Kejan Haynes
Lead Editor newsgathering
Former prime minister and energy minister Stuart Young is questioning whether global fertiliser giant Nutrien is preparing to sell its physical assets in Trinidad and Tobago.
Speaking at a media conference, Young said information reaching him suggests the company’s plant at the Point Lisas Industrial Estate may be up for sale.
“Has the Nutrien group of plants at Point Lisas been put up for sale, with RBC being retained to see if they find a purchaser?” he asked.
He described the prospect as “a disaster for Trinidad and Tobago,” adding: “Nutrien is one of the largest ammonia producers in the world… when they shut down, has our ammonia production and export dropped significantly? The answer is yes.”
Young warned the impact would extend beyond plant workers.
“It is not only about the plants… it is the ecosystem… those who supply janitorial services, security services, food services… it is going to be hundreds and hundreds of jobs.”
He also questioned recent gas allocation decisions, asking: “Did they shut off gas to the plants at Point Lisas and drop it to DCQ levels? Why did they do so?”
Guardian Media contacted Nutrien’s Manager Government and Industry Affairs, Ms. Nneka Mentore and the Media Relations Team for comment. She said,
“Following a controlled shutdown in October, our nitrogen operations remain shut down. We have maintained all 322 full-time employee positions and are in ongoing dialogue with the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the National Gas Company. All options remain under consideration.”
Guardian Media asked National Gas Company if Government may seek to acquire the assets, even though it’s unclear how such a move would be financed.
NGC has not responded to our request for comment.
The company’s operations have been in limbo since the end of 2025, after its gas supply arrangements expired. While production remains shut down, employees have been told to continue reporting to work, with their terms unchanged.
In a message to staff, a company executive said: “Our nitrogen operations remain shut down, and all options remain under consideration.”
Work continues at the facility to maintain basic operability, with sources estimating it is costing about US$2 million per month to retain staff.
The shutdown followed a dispute with the National Gas Company over gas supply and outstanding fees, leaving hundreds of workers uncertain about the future of the operation.
