THE Port of Port of Spain is facing significant operational disruptions due to ongoing strikes and labour shortages, severely impacting businesses across Trinidad and Tobago.
Mayaro MP Rushton Paray has called for immediate government intervention to address the crisis, which poses a critical threat to the economy as the Christmas season approaches.
In release on Thursday, he said, “The situation has reached an alarming stage, with containers waiting for weeks to be examined, a lack of available Customs officers, and operations significantly slowed down at the port.
“Businesses, already strained by economic challenges, are now facing severe delays in importing goods ahead of the critical Christmas season. This comes at a time when the retail sector typically prepares for its busiest and most profitable period of the year.”
Paray said Cargo vessels, including the MSC MALENA, are experiencing week-long berthing delays due to minimal labor availability caused by strike actions.
Further compounding the issue, once berthed, containers face uncertainty in processing times, with examination delays at the Container Examination Station (CES) extending over a week, he said.
Paray said the shortage of available Customs officers has led to a three-week waiting period for appointments, which only occur between 8 am. and 4pm exacerbating the delays.
As the festive season nears, these unprecedented disruptions threaten to inflict lasting damage on the economy, he said.
Paray said retailers are unable to stock shelves, distributors struggle to meet commitments, and consumers may face limited access to goods, including essentials.
He said, “The business community cannot afford further delays. It is imperative that all stakeholders come together to ensure a resolution that benefits the economy and secures the livelihoods of those dependent on timely imports. We call on the government to act swiftly, to avoid long-term damage to our economy and preserve the integrity of our supply chains.”
