SAG collaborates with Port of Port of Spain to address cargo delays

Seeking to strengthen trade efficiency between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG), under the leadership of Chairman Dr Komal Singh, engaged in high-level discussions with Port of Port of Spain Chief Executive Officer Robert Ramsubhag and his senior officials to address prolonged cargo movement delays impacting Guyana-bound containers.

Dr Singh also met with the Comptroller of Customs in Trinidad to discuss challenges within the department that are contributing to logistical issues at the port. He emphasized that both his organization and the Government are committed to implementing changes that will positively impact the cargo movement process.
As Guyana continues to experience delays in the delivery of containerized cargo, the meeting aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced at the Port of Port of Spain and within the regional logistics chain.
The Shipping Association stressed the importance of resolving these issues promptly, particularly with the busy Christmas season approaching, when import volumes typically surge.
Additionally, global shipping challenges are having a ripple effect, contributing to delays at ports across the region, especially in Trinidad and Jamaica. These delays are having a negative impact on transshipment containers.
The average transshipment time has improved from 24 days to approximately 15 days, with around 594 containers currently at the Port of Port of Spain. However, stakeholders remain optimistic that further improvements can be made through swift and coordinated action by all parties involved.
Chairman Singh reaffirmed SAG’s commitment to working closely with regional partners to improve operational efficiency, stating:
“This engagement is part of our ongoing effort to strengthen collaboration within the Caribbean shipping network. We are committed to finding practical solutions that enhance cargo movement and ensure Guyanese businesses and consumers are not adversely affected by regional bottlenecks.”
Both the Shipping Association of Guyana and the Port of Port of Spain have agreed to hold regular meetings to monitor progress and explore specific measures that individual shipping lines can take to alleviate current challenges. It was also noted that not all shipping lines are experiencing delays.
The SAG remains dedicated to fostering stronger regional partnerships to ensure reliability, predictability, and efficiency in maritime logistics serving Guyana and the wider Caribbean.