Disruptions at Port of Port of Spain Cause Concern for Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce

The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (T&T Chamber) has expressed its concern over the continued disruptions at the Port of Port of Spain, as workers have downed tools in support of their union’s call for better wages and health and safety concerns.

The Trinidad and Tobago Port Authority (PATT) has confirmed that all its operations were shut down on Monday, with the situation remaining mostly the same on Tuesday. In a statement, PATT told stakeholders and customers that the port "is experiencing an interruption to all areas of its operations," adding that "this is due to the unplanned absence of the full complement of labor."

President of the Seamen and Waterfront Workers Trade Union (SWWTU), Michael Annisette, said the workers are frustrated over promises not yet fulfilled by the port, adding that the union has again run down a wage offer of four percent.

"We had already rejected that, but they raised it again…Our position is clear: we have signed a legitimate agreement with the Port Authority. Therefore, we are not prepared to unsign an agreement already signed to enter any discussions," he told reporters.

The T&T Chamber has urged key stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue for a swift resolution, stating that the worker walkout highlights labor and operational challenges. The private sector group warned that Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is already under strain, and the knock-on effects of this impasse are expected to impact economic activities well into 2025.

According to the chamber, delayed shipments and canceled orders are projected to reduce revenue, with some companies anticipating a 10-20 percent drop in income. More shipping companies are bypassing the Port of Port of Spain, adding logistical costs and compounding challenges for local importers.

"Higher detention fees and elevated haulage rates are placing additional financial strain on importers and exporters, likely leading to price increases for consumers," the T&T Chamber said.

The private sector group emphasized that efficient port operations are essential given the economic impact and supply chain concerns, with trade contributing approximately 17 percent to the national gross domestic product (GDP).

"Current delays are hampering export growth and driving up the costs of imported goods, ultimately affecting citizens’ cost of living due to higher warehousing, demurrage, and handling fees," the T&T Chamber said.

The group listed some of the persistent operational issues at the port that require urgent reform, including high storage costs that are 25-30 percent above regional averages, limited rent-free periods, and fees that continue on public holidays and weekends, even when services are halted, adding to demurrage and rental costs.

In addition, the T&T Chamber said that slow online payment and customs clearance processes, which extend wait times and increase business costs, and delays for scanner and Container Examination Station (CES) appointments contribute to inefficient cargo handling.

Businesses continue to report slow processing and fear repercussions for raising complaints. "Restoring full operational capacity is essential to protect the economy and ensure a stable, productive environment for the business community," said Vashti Guyadeen, the T&T Chamber chief executive officer.

Conclusion:
The disruption at the Port of Port of Spain has significant implications for the economy of Trinidad and Tobago, and it is essential for key stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

FAQs:

What are the reasons for the disruption at the Port of Port of Spain?
The workers have downed tools in support of their union’s call for better wages and health and safety concerns.
What is the impact of the disruption on the economy?
The disruption is expected to reduce revenue, with some companies anticipating a 10-20 percent drop in income, and may lead to price increases for consumers.
What are the persistent operational issues at the port that require urgent reform?
The T&T Chamber lists high storage costs, limited rent-free periods, and fees that continue on public holidays and weekends, among others, as issues that need to be addressed.