Trinidad and Tobago to Become First Caribbean Nation to Adopt India's UPI

Trinidad and Tobago is set to become the first Caribbean country to adopt India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This is another step in taking Indian digital payment technology abroad. Chandradath Singh, the country's High Commissioner to India, confirmed that the nation is actively working to bring in the system.

NIPL and Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Digital Transformation

The project is part of a deal between NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Digital Transformation. The agreement was exchanged in September 2024, and the rollout is now underway. UPI is the model for building a fast, real-time payment system in the country.

How will UPI transform digital payments in Trinidad and Tobago?

The new platform will allow quick payments between individuals and from customers to shops. It will also help banks and other financial institutions work together more smoothly. NIPL will share technical skills, knowledge and training. Trinidad and Tobago will remain the owner of its payment platform.

Expected Benefits

• Less dependence on cash
• Faster, more transparent payments
• Greater financial inclusion
• New chances for digital commerce and easier transactions for people and businesses

List of countries using India's UPI

UPI is already available in these 11 countries:

• Bhutan
• Nepal
• Singapore
• United Arab Emirates
• France
• Mauritius
• Sri Lanka
• Qatar
• Cambodia
• Greece
• Maldives

India-Trinidad and Tobago ties gain fresh momentum

The UPI plan comes as the two countries grow closer. According to Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit led to six MoUs and agreements on trade, investment, technical cooperation and people-to-people ties.

The two nations are also marking 64 years of diplomatic relations. The link goes back further: Indian indentured labourers first reached Trinidad 181 years ago. Their descendants are now an important part of the country's social, cultural and political life.

Trinidad and Tobago secures UNSC seat

Trinidad and Tobago has won a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2027-28. It got 181 out of 190 votes in a single round of voting. Singh thanked India for backing its candidature.

During its two-year term, the country plans to focus on:

• Illegal trafficking of small arms and light weapons
• Trafficking of women and children
• The impact of artificial intelligence on global security

Key Points for Exams

• Trinidad and Tobago will be the first Caribbean nation to adopt UPI.
• The agreement is between NIPL and its Ministry of Digital Transformation.
• The country will own the platform.
• It won its UNSC seat with 181 of 190 votes.