This PhD dissertation in fulfillment of the requirements for the University of Toronto examines the development of manufacturing industry in Trinidad and Tobago under government's policy of 'industrialisation by invitation' and the extent to which the intent of the policy to create jobs, promote exports, save foreign exchange, create linkages and develop and absorb technology were achieved. The study reviews alternative theories of industrial development including those of Arthur Lewis, Dependency Theory, and neo-Classical theories. Among the issues reviewed were the efficacy of tax incentives, protection, subsidies and concessions in encouraging the development of manufacturing industry.