Dear Colleagues,
It has been a year of challenges and triumphs as President of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, but the inspiration of a glorious history and the promise of the future have kept me both grounded and motivated. I am struck by a mix of awe and gratitude for leading an organisation with such a rich legacy.
It is an honour I hold in the highest regard, particularly as I took the reins during a milestone year—the SAJ’s 85th anniversary. This significant occasion has provided an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s remarkable journey and its enduring impact on Jamaica’s maritime sector. The devotion and resilience of our staff and members have been integral to the Association’s longevity and success, and it is with immense pride that I acknowledge this collective accomplishment.
Eighty-five years of service to the maritime industry is no small feat. It speaks to the SAJ’s ability to evolve and adapt to the changing tides of global shipping and logistics. From the challenges of port modernisation in the 20th century to the complexities of today’s data-driven world, the SAJ has remained steadfast in its mission to support the development of Jamaica’s shipping and logistics industry. This anniversary serves as a reminder of the foundational values upon which the Association was built – values of cooperation, innovation, and dedication to the betterment of our industry. These principles continue to guide us as we navigate new challenges and opportunities in the maritime landscape.
This past year has seen significant developments for the industry. Most notably, the arrival of the first vessel for dry docking at the German Ship Repair Jamaica (GSRJ) Shipyard – a private venture which includes SAJ through our Pension Fund, though some members and our related entity, SAJE Logistics Infrastructure Limited – marked a historic moment for the island. The dry docking of the Mexican Giant, a 15,000-tonne vessel, emphasises Jamaica’s growing capabilities in maritime services and infrastructure. This milestone reflects our country’s expanding role in the global industry, positioning us as a competitive player in the field of vessel repair and maintenance.
Another decisive moment for the SAJ and the wider business community was the implementation of the Data Protection Act (2020), which came into effect on December 1, 2023. This legislation, aimed at safeguarding the personal information of Jamaicans, has far-reaching implications for how organisations handle data. For an industry like ours, where personal and sensitive data are processed daily, the act compels us to reassess our practices and ensure compliance with new standards of data security and confidentiality. At the SAJ, this process of ensuring we meet the requirements of the law and help our members navigate this new regulatory landscape is well underway.
Another major focus for the SAJ has been the continued efforts to improve the Newport West community, a critical center for Jamaica’s maritime and logistics operations. Throughout 2023 and into 2024, the SAJ has worked diligently with local authorities, including the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) and the National Works Agency, to address issues such as road conditions, flooding, and illegal parking. Additionally, the Association has engaged the European Union (EU) to explore international cooperation on infrastructure development, particularly through the Global Logistics Hub Initiative. These efforts include an active consultancy programmed funded by the EU to undertake feasibility work on solutions to improve the Port of Kingston and the Newport West community. It also includes the development of a public-private partnership to improve the business environment in Newport West, as well as addressing environmental concerns.
Key meetings were held with the Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Aubyn Hill, and other government officials to outline issues and potential solutions.
A tour of the Port of Kingston and German Ship Repair Jamaica’s dockyard solidified EU support for the Logistics Hub vision as discussions continue to formalise the partnership, with terms of reference being developed.
In May, roadworks began in Newport West following successful lobbying efforts by the SAJ, including correspondence with Minister of Transport, Daryl Vaz, and the National Works Agency. The following month, mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby was invited to a management meeting and tour of the community to address local development concerns including flooding, poor road conditions, inadequate drainage, poor traffic management, unregulated vending, and public safety.
Jamaica Customs Agency
Challenges continued with ASYCUDA registration, as applications were only processed for specific groups, affecting businesses unable to register new staff. The SAJ formally contacted the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), highlighting the operational impact and requesting swift resolution. Following a late 2023 ASYCUDA update, some performance improvements were noted, though members reported disruptions. While JCA protocols for ASYCUDA registration are close to completion, a reopening date is yet to be provided.
In other developments, the JCA assumed port scanning responsibilities on July 1, 2024, with new technology aimed at reducing processing times and aligning with international standards. Integrated with ASYCUDA, this system will streamline operations by linking scanned images with Bills of Lading. While initial feedback indicated slower processing and reduced productivity, training has been implemented to address these issues. Additionally, to resolve delays in closing T1s, the SAJ worked with the JCA, who pledged to review the issue and improve processes.
Newport West Improvement
The SAJ has undertaken a series of initiatives aimed at addressing the infrastructure and environmental challenges faced by the Newport West community. The focus has been on improving roadway conditions, establishing a chassis park, and engaging local and international stakeholders to develop long-term solutions for drainage and sewage issues. The European Union (EU), the National Works Agency (NWA), and the National Water Commission (NWC) have all been involved in planning discussions, indicating favourable developments in the Newport West Improvement Project.
Significant strides were made to secure partnerships with both the Jamaican government and the European Union to drive infrastructure improvements in Newport West. Notably, the EU has committed funding for scoping and feasibility studies that encompass essential environmental impact assessments, financial studies, and preliminary designs for drainage and road systems. These studies lay the groundwork for sustainable and targeted measures that will address long-standing issues in the area.
Additionally, the EU recently approved a contractor to assist in designing and implementing an effective drainage system, with the SAJ facilitating discussions to explore public-private partnerships for comprehensive drainage and roadway development.
In addition, the SAJ is addressing critical sewage infrastructure issues that have affected the area’s roads and public health. Persistent sewage backlogs have contributed to roadway deterioration, and the SAJ has engaged the National Water Commission (NWC) to expedite solutions.
SAJ’s 85th Anniversary
The Association celebrated its 85th anniversary on January 27, 2024. To mark this milestone, the SAJ hosted a series of events, the first being a thanksgiving service on January 28 at St Peter’s Anglican Church in Port Royal, followed by brunch at the Grand Excelsior Hotel. A special supplement highlighting the SAJ’s history and contributions to national and regional expansion was published in the Sunday Gleaner and Sunday Observer on February 11.
Additional celebratory activities included a Valentine’s Day-themed SAJ Staff Mingle on February 13 and a Members’ Mingle on March 22.
As part of the celebrations, the SAJ hosted a Distinguished Lecture on November 1, 2024, titled “Jamaica as a Logistics Hub in a Changing Global Landscape.” The lecture, led by Lars Jensen, CEO of Vespucci Maritime, explored Jamaica’s potential as a global logistics hub and outlined the next steps needed to achieve this vision. The event featured panel discussions with industry experts and aimed to engage the Government of Jamaica and international partners.
The event explained both the challenges and opportunities facing Jamaica’s port industry as we seeks to strengthen its global positioning.
Supported by the European Union and its Global Gateway Initiative, the Distinguished Lecture explored the strategic economic imperatives necessary to position Jamaica as the fourth major node in the global logistics network. Jensen emphasised that Jamaica’s path to success will depend on adapting to pressures such as decarbonisation, increased competition among transshipment hubs, and the effects of geopolitical shifts on trade. Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce Aubyn Hill reinforced this vision, underlining the government’s goal to increase the logistics sector’s contribution to Jamaica’s gross domestic product and to increase employment opportunities.
I highlighted the essential role of public-private coordination in building the infrastructure and policies needed to support Jamaica’s vision of becoming a world-class logistics hub. It must be that partnerships with allies like the European Union are key to driving the ambitious changes required. More details will be shared later in this report.
Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts
In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in July, the SAJ partnered with Food For the Poor (FFTP) to launch a relief effort for those affected. The SAJ appealed to its members for donations of food, hygiene products, and financial contributions to provide aid to those in need. The SAJ made a substantial contribution of cash and essential supplies to the relief efforts in Jamaica’s eastern region, making the presentation at the FFTP headquarters at Ellerslie Pen, Spanish Town on August 28. Prior to the storm, the SAJ also disseminated information on hurricane preparedness to members to mitigate potential damage.
SAJ Collaborations
The SAJ has strengthened its relationships with key stakeholders in the local sector. In January, the SAJ met with Dr. Evette Smith Johnson, president of Women in Maritime, Caribbean (WiMAC) to discuss cooperation and efforts to attract and meaningfully engage women in the industry to address challenges in Newport West, the SAJ met with Mayor Andrew Swaby to secure improvements in infrastructure, traffic management, and public safety.
The SAJ also hosted a delegation from JAMPRO to explore opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit. Additionally, the Association’s leadership met with the president of Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association of Jamaica, Marcia Bent, and immediate past president Clive Coke, to address common challenges and explore prospects for support.
Through these strategic alliances, the SAJ proved its commitment to resolving industry problems, promoting teamwork, and driving progress. These engagements have reinforced the SAJ’s position as a leading voice in the maritime sector and positioned the organisation to contribute considerably to Jamaica’s economic growth.
Data Protection Act (2020)
Recognising the stringent regulations for handling personal data, the SAJ emphasised the importance of a comprehensive approach, with promoting Data Protection Act (2020) compliance among its members. This includes developing its own robust privacy policies, conducting thorough data audits, and implementing robust data protection measures and encouraging members to follow suit.
The SAJ stressed that data protection is essential for businesses of all sizes and that by investing in data protection measures, businesses comply with regulations, strengthen their brand reputation and promote customer trust. The SAJ also extended its comprehensive support services to help members achieve and maintain Data Protection Act compliance through a dedicated team.
Corporate Social Responsibility
The SAJ continued its tradition of spreading joy to the elderly in Greenwich Farm and the students at the Marcus Garvey Basic School last Christmas.
The SAJ presented care packages to 50 senior citizens from the community at the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church and approximately 50 students, ages three to six, received gifts, while special tokens were presented to their teachers during their year-end treat. This annual initiative is part of SAJ’s ongoing commitment to the community. The SAJ also hosts a twice-monthly free clinic for the elderly and supports the Marcus Garvey Basic School through salary assistance, a feeding program, and assistance with its Toddlers’ Camp.
In February, the Association fielded a team of 60 participants in the 2024 Sagicor Sigma ‘Honour’ Run which achieved a record fundraising milestone, of $109 million. Several SAJ members, including Kingston Wharves Limited, Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited, Lannaman and Morris, Maritime and Transport Services, and Seaboard Jamaica, were also present at the event. The event, considered the largest charity road race in the Caribbean, drew a record number of 27,349 participants, a significant increase compared to the previous year’s turnout of just over 21,000 individuals.
Farewell to Phillip Henry, Hick Hugh Gordon, Frank Gonzales and Vincent Wilson
The SAJ mourned the loss of Phillip Henry former managing director of Port Services Limited. Remembered as quiet but methodical, Mr Henry oversaw the expansion of the company into port operations, securing state-of-the-art equipment that contributed to its modernisation and ISO 9002 certification, a milestone for the English-speaking Caribbean.
We also fondly remember Hicks Hugh Gordon, affectionately known as ‘Stumpy,’ a respected shore crane operator who left a lasting mark on our community. Stumpy dedicated 28 years to the port before his retirement in 1997 and is noted for his skill operating Kingston’s sole 140-tonne shore crane.
It was with great sadness that we received the news of Frank Gonzales’ passing earlier this year. He was a valued colleague and friend who joined the SAJ in 2018 as a relief bearer and later served as a logistics clerk and permanent bearer. He was a dedicated and cheerful member of the team whose infectious smile and charm is greatly missed by his colleagues
We also grieved the passing of Vincent Wilson, the SAJ’s oldest pensioner, who lived to the remarkable age of 106. Known affectionately as “Mr Will,” Vincent joined the Association in 1957 as an administrative clerk in the pension division, where he dedicated over 30 years to serving with compassion and a personal touch that made a lasting impact.
As we honour their lives, we remember their legacies of kindness, integrity, and earnest service to the SAJ and its members.
Caribbean Shipping Association
The SAJ maintains a longstanding partnership with the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA), partially hosting its Secretariat and providing essential administrative and management services. This longstanding relationship has strengthened the CSA’s ability to effectively represent the interests of the Caribbean maritime industry and promote its growth and development.
The SAJ’s involvement includes crucial assistance with the planning of the CSA’s two annual conferences, comprising the successful hosting of its last annual general meeting in Trinidad and Tobago in October 2023, which attracted over 500 delegates, and the 22nd annual Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference (CSEC) at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon in May 2024, welcoming over 300 delegates.
I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to our immediate past president, William Brown, who was elected CSA president at its AGM in St Maarten in October. Congratulations are also for SAJ’s vice-president Andre Rochester, who was elected Group A representative; and SAJ member, Rachel Matthews, who will serve as Group D chairman. I am confident their presence on the CSA’s General Council will add valuable insights and renewed energy and continue our rich history of involvement with the association.
The SAJ will now focus on helping the CSA execute its 23rd Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference in Miami, Florida from May 19-20, 2025.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the past year, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the progress we have made as an organisation. The challenges we face today will become opportunities for growth tomorrow, and together we will continue to build on the proud legacy of the SAJ.
As we look ahead, the future of the shipping industry is overflowing with opportunities. The SAJ is poised to play a key role in shaping this future, driving innovation, and enabling sustainable growth. We will continue to advocate for policies that support the development of Jamaica’s maritime sector, strengthen our partnerships with key stakeholders, and leverage technology to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
I am confident that together, we can build upon our successes and position the SAJ as an indispensable force in the global maritime landscape. I thank all our members, partners, and stakeholders for their support during this defining year, and I look forward to what we will achieve together in the years to come.
Sincerely,
CORAH ANN ROBERTSON-SYLVESTER
PRESIDENT, SAJ