Our Mission
To provide guidance, research and support to producers of craft and fashion throughout Trinidad and Tobago so as to facilitate and promote their development and success
Why we help
ECCL will contribute towards economic diversity while enhancing the development and creative talent of our citizens. This transformation will hinge upon the enhancement of our human capital through education, training and youth development, as well as the transformation of our rich cultural diversity, history and heritage.
We are not alone
The ECCL is also aware of the global economic challenges faced by contemporary society. It follows that in order for us to grow and expand, the organisation must also adopt to the changes in our socio-economic environment by learning and adopting new means of production and techniques in craft.
Our Vision
ECCL sees itself as the leading institution involved in the revitalization of the local handicraft and fashion industry and playing a major role in artisan development
How we contribute
Craft cannot merely be viewed as a past-time or hobby. Rather, it has the potential of becoming a sustainable industry, capable of generating revenue, creating new avenues for employment and contributing to the GDP of Trinidad and Tobago.
What we do
ECCL can be viewed as a ‘developmental’ organization contributing to community development and social transformation.
The company’s contribution and impact on society
Craft Sector Development
Development and revitalization of the craft sector as a business enterprise leading to job creation and exports.
Encouraging Innovation
Encourage invention and innovation to job creation while exporting the rich heritage of creativity, culture and innate talent of our people.
Poverty Alleviation
Contribute to poverty alleviation and crime reduction.
Artisan Training
In the context of current trends, the strategic plan of ECCL is to embark on a pathway that not only train citizens to become artisans, but to engage and assist artisans to be part of a success driven export enterprise.
Economic Diversity
Given the current adverse economic climate whereby an economy primarily based on oil and gas is no longer sustainable or renewable, the need for economic diversity is now of critical importance. It is now virtually impossible for the state to provide employment and at the same time meet welfare demands for all. We must therefore seek sustenance elsewhere through the non-energy sector. Economic diversity is now seemingly our only option in our fight for economic and social stability.
Quasi Welfare State
Trinidad and Tobago can be viewed as a ‘quasi’ welfare state whereby many citizens are trapped in a cycle of dependency on the state.
Brief History
The Export Centre Company Limited (ECCL) was established and incorporated under the companies Act of Trinidad and Tobago on July 3rd, 1996. ECCL was originally mandated to empower members of rural communities, particularly, female heads of households through the production of craft for the export markets.
During the period 2009-2010 there was a shift in organizational strategy with regards, the training programme was re-designed to incorporate a wider cadre of trainees and subsequent craft producers.
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