- Registration of Port Computer Services Limited (now ADVANTUM) as a subsidiary of the SAJ, in 1982.
- The Shipping Industry News Feature was started in February 1987.
- In this same era, the SAJ developed and presented a Maritime Industry Plan to the Government of Jamaica for the development of the industry.
- SAJ deepens its contribution to port security.
- The most impressive growth in home ownership by employees of any organisation in Jamaica is initiated and supported by the Shipping Association of Jamaica.
- Newport West renamed “Port Bustamante” in memory of Sir Alexander Bustamante, Jamaica’s first Prime Minister and former labour leader.
- The port continued its modern development during this period.
- The Caribbean Shipping Association was founded with its secretariat in Jamaica.
- A modern recruiting centre in Newport West was opened by the SAJ and the SAJ’s offices were moved to King Street.
- The SAJ workers housing scheme was established.
- Jamaica was one of the early movers in Transshipment, which began in earnest at Newport West.
- Another historic achievement of the era was the establishment of Jamaica’s first Maritime Training Institution, now known as the Caribbean Maritime Institute. It was formed with financial and technical assistance of the Norwegian Government.
- This era saw modernization of the Port of Kingston occurring rapidly. With the dawn of the computer age, the SAJ started the process of computerizing its operations on the Port.
- The historic labour contract of 1966 led to the introduction of advanced mechanization on the Port. This occurred as a result of the Moody commission of Enquiry which recommended the overhaul of labour and management system on the waterfront. The Portworkers Pension Fund replaced the superannuation scheme, a guarantee pay system was introduced and benefits were generally improved for portworkers.
- The first container vessel, operated by Sealand, arrived in Kingston.
- Newport West opened and the finger piers in Kingston gradually declined.
