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The Port of Kingston is facing significant supply chain challenges, impacting domestic importers and leading to instances of ships bypassing Jamaica due to terminal congestion.
This as the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) says cargo volumes soared to more than 50 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels.
The Port Authority says investments in infrastructure and equipment by Kingston Freeport Terminal, Kingston Wharves, and other stakeholders have bolstered capacity, but surging volumes and scheduling disruptions continue to strain operations.
According to the PAJ, in 2024, only 9 per cent of the 172 mainliner vessels arriving in Kingston were on schedule, with geopolitical tensions and adverse weather contributing to delays.
To manage the holiday season rush, Kingston's transshipment terminal has introduced extra container pickup slots and extended operating hours, but utilisation remains at 66%.
The PAJ noted that as of December 18, three mainliners were anchored outside Kingston Harbour, underscoring the ongoing challenges in accommodating growing cargo volumes.
One was processed on December 19, while the others await feeder vessels for cargo evacuation.
The Port Authority said it is finalising agreements with Kingston Freeport Terminal to expand cargo storage areas, with construction expected to begin soon.
Additionally, plans are underway to relocate domestic aviation operations from Tinson Pen to Norman Manley International Airport and reroute Marcus Garvey Drive to facilitate port expansion.
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