Trinidad and Tobago has become a slightly more competitive place to conduct business.

But the country still ranks low on the list of nations in global competitiveness.

Trinidad and Tobago is ranked 84 on the Global Competitiveness Result (GCR) for 2010.

This indicated an upward movement of two notches from 86, out of some 139 countries which are rated in the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI).

The results were released last month at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business (GSB).

Delivering the feature address, Planning, Economic and Social Restructuring and Gender Affairs Minister Mary King said it suggests Trinidad and Tobago improved its performance over the past year.

The top three countries were Switzerland, Sweden and Singapore respectively with the United States dropping from its number two position to fourth place.

Prof Miguel Carrillo, GSB executive director and Professor of Strategy said in terms of Trinidad and Tobago’s position, there were still areas which required significant improvement in the country’s competitive profile.

“Amidst short-term challenges, this country as others, should not lose sight of ensuring long term competitiveness fundamentals.

“We need to ensure there is productivity, innovation, and entrepreneurial enhancers in place as we strive to improve the landscape,” he said.

The GCR is the most comprehensive assessment of the comparative strengths and weaknesses of national economies, used by governments, academics and business leaders.

It was first published in 1979 and its coverage has expanded each year since, now extending to 139 countries.