The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs proudly joins the national and international community in celebrating World Steelpan Day 2025, in honour of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, the steelpan. This instrument serves as a symbol of creativity, resilience and national pride.
World Steelpan Day is observed annually on 11th August in recognition of the steelpan’s unique place in world culture as the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2023,
This year’s observance holds special significance as it coincided with Trinidad and Tobago’s National Day at Expo 2025, held in Osaka, Japan. The Honourable Sean Sobers, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, who was invited to attend the event, noted that the steelpan “promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities, the creative economy and can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being, gender equality and youth empowerment.” In his address, Minister Sobers also highlighted Japan’s co-sponsorship of the UN Resolution, underscoring the deep cultural ties between both nations.
The steelpan’s journey, from the urban tenements of Port of Spain to global recognition, reflects the ingenuity of its pioneers and the expanding community of practitioners worldwide. As Minister Sobers remarked, “By playing a note or melody, from novice to expert, you have been invariably drawn towards a powerful symbol of inclusion and belonging.” This spirit was on full display at the Trinidad and Tobago Pavilion at Expo 2025, which welcomed over 600,000 visitors and showcased the steelpan as a living emblem of national energy and innovation. Japan has over 30 steelbands along with growing participation in national competitions such as Panorama. The steelpan not only serves as a powerful tool in cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges, but promotes tourism.
The Ministry invites citizens at home and abroad to reflect on the steelpan’s history, embrace its unifying spirit and support its ongoing development as a living cultural treasure of Trinidad and Tobago. The Ministry also reaffirms its commitment to showcasing the steelpan at various international fora, cultural exchanges and collaborative performances.
Minister Sobers is expected to travel today from the Expo 2025 in Osaka to Tokyo, Japan, to hold high-level bilateral talks towards pursuing areas of technical cooperation and assistance for the benefit of citizens.
