Trinidad chose not to have relations with South Africa until after the Apartheid ended. Non-residential diplomatic relations were formally established in 1995 and in 1998, Ms T Luthuli- Gcabashe, South Africa's Non Resident High Commissioner presented her credentials to Trinidad and Tobago. In 1999, Trinidad attended a Commonwealth Law Ministers Conference alongside South Africa. Mr Ruphus Matibe visited Trinidad in 2001 to explore ways to boost cultural cooperation. In 2002, they agreed to establish a Carnival, a Caribbean festival, in South Africa with Trinidad's Guidance.[1] In 2004, Trinidad opened its first High Commission in Pretoria[2] and South Africa opened its first high Commission in Port of Spain in the 2010s.[3]
Trade
In 2017, Trinidad exported 17.8 Million US Dollars worth of goods to South Africa[4] while South Africa exported US$7.45 Million dollars to Trinidad and Tobago, with most exports being Delivery Trucks.[5]