SAG, Port of Port of Spain discuss cargo delays

Oct 17, 2025 News

(Kaieteur News) – The Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG), led by Chairman Dr. Komal Singh, along with agents and port operators, recently held a high-level meeting with Mr. Robert Ramsubhag, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Port of Spain, and his senior management team.

The meeting aimed at addressing ongoing delays impacting the movement of containerised cargo destined for Guyana. Dr. Singh also met with the Comptroller of Customs in Trinidad to discuss challenges within the department contributing to logistical issues at the port.

This meeting follows a call by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) for both Guyanese and Trinidadian authorities as well as port operators, to urgently address the problem through strategic coordination.

The body, expressed concern over persistent shipping delays from Trinidad caused by port congestion, a recurring issue that continues to hinder regional trade and disrupt local supply chains.

As such it urged that swift action be taken to tackle port delays in Trinidad. According to the Chamber, its members, particularly those in the manufacturing, trade, retail, and construction sectors have reported significant setbacks in receiving shipments of raw materials. The delays have also led to increased demurrage and storage costs, while disrupting production schedules and project timelines.

“This situation has not only disrupted operations but placed undue pressure on cashflow,” GCCI said in a statement earlier this week.

Meanwhile, at the recent meeting, Dr. Singh emphasised that both his department 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 containerised 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,” a statement issued by the Private Sector Commission (PSC) on Thursday said.

According to the statement, the delays have a negative impact on transshipment containers. The average transshipment time has improved from 24 days to approximately 15 days, with around 594 containers currently in the Port of Trinidad and Tobago. However, stakeholders remain optimistic that further improvements can be made with swift and coordinated action by all parties involved.

Dr. Singh reaffirmed SAGs 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.”

Further both SAG 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.

SAG said it remains dedicated to fostering stronger regional partnerships to ensure reliability, predictability, and efficiency in maritime logistics serving Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

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cargo delays, Komal Singh, Port of Port of Spain, SAG

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