Anthony Hylton - FILE PHOTO
Opposition Spokesperson on Trade & Global Logistics Anthony Hylton has charged that the annual Christmas congestion at the Port of Kingston is due to government inaction and failure to capitalise on the port's potential.
Describing the port as a "global and local asset," Mr Hylton has argued that there is need for urgent action to address long-standing issues.
He said until the cargo imbalance that characterises Jamaica's trade situation is addressed, the annual congestion at the Port of Kingston will remain a source of frustration and risk to local importers, including manufacturers and distributors.
He further argued that, while global shipping uncertainties contribute to the congestion, Jamaica's failure to develop logistics infrastructure around the Port of Kingston has been the key barrier.
According to him, the shortfall undermines the port's resilience and flexibility, preventing it from becoming a major logistics hub. He said the government must act urgently to take the Port to the next level.
Last week, the Port Authority of Jamaica said the current congestion at the port resulted from a drastic increase of cargo volumes as well as disruptions in mainliner service schedules.
That statement followed a complaint from businessman Richard Pandohie, the head of one of the country's largest distribution and manufacturing companies.
Mr Pandohi argued that the supply chain challenges are as bad now as they were during the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting that many ships are anchored in harbour waiting to offload.
He also claimed that many ships have bypassed Jamaica because of congestion
Industry Minister Aubyn Hill last week dismissed Mr Hylton's criticisms about the government's purported inaction in advancing Jamaica's interest in developing a global logistics hub.
comments powered by Disqus
All feeds
