TTMA calls on an immediate solution to backlog problems at the Port

22nd November, 2011

The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) has noted with great concern the decline in efficiency in port operations over the last couple of weeks resulting in a backlog in the clearance of goods. The Association calls on the Customs and Excise Division and the relevant Port Authorities to implement the necessary measures as a matter of urgency, to facilitate manufacturers who are unduly affected by this problem which presents an additional hindrance to trade, especially during the busy Christmas season.

The TTMA has received several complaints from its membership relating to delays at customs cashiers, the storing of goods, and the berthing of vessels, despite earlier assurances from the relevant authorities that the proper steps were in place to mitigate the expected boost in activity during the Christmas season. The Association therefore laments the ongoing situation faced by manufacturers and the lack of resolve by the authorities in finding immediate solutions to the backlog problems.

The new Navis SPARCS N4 system being implemented in conjunction with the heavy Christmas Season without adequate resources being deployed, has caused great trepidation and frustration to the entire business community who need to recover significant losses occurred over the last few months in this relatively short period.

TTMA requests that the Customs and Excise Division and the Port Authorities treat this situation with the utmost urgency and work expeditiously within the upcoming days to clear the backlogs in the interest of the affected parties and the wider national economy. Further, it should be noted that the increased cost of doing business will have a ripple effect on the cost of finished goods to the consumer, as manufacturers are also faced with cost increases in other areas, including labour, raw materials and shipping.

The Association wishes to advise its members to arrange to have their goods cleared on Saturdays if possible in order alleviate this backlog.