PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC—The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (T&T Chamber) expressed its concern Tuesday over the continued disruptions at the Port of Port of Spain as workers 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 and that the situation remained mostly the same on Tuesday.
In a statement, it 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.”
PATT has since apologized for any inconvenience.
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.
In a statement, the T&T Chamber said the worker walkout highlights labor and operational challenges and urges key stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue for a swift resolution.
“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,” the private sector group said, adding that a recent survey it conducted across 15 economic sectors, representing 65 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), reveals the far-reaching impact:
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.
In addition, it said 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 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 private sector group said persistent operational issues at the port that require urgent reform include 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 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.
It said 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.
and then  expressed its concern Tuesday over the continued){kind=link}