Chamber of Commerce seeks end to port delays to boost economy

Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) head James Clarke has called for urgent reforms to address persistent delays at the Bridgetown Port, warning that inefficiencies are stifling business operations and undermining the country’s economic growth.

Speaking at the chamber’s first luncheon for 2025, held at the Hilton Resort on Friday, Clarke called for urgent action to streamline port logistics, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and modernise trade and investment policies to position Barbados as a more competitive global player.

The BCCI president said port bottlenecks remain one of the most pressing concerns for the local business community, highlighting frustrations over costly delays and inefficiencies that have plagued importers and exporters alike.

These issues, he stressed, must be addressed as part of a broader strategy to improve the ease of doing business in the country.

“Delays at the port continue to affect our business community, impacting supply chains and creating unnecessary hurdles for trade,” Clarke said.

“If we are serious about building a stronger, more resilient economy, we must tackle these inefficiencies head-on.”

Addressing an audience of business leaders and policymakers, Clarke outlined the chamber’s agenda for 2025, identifying regulatory reform, digital transformation, and business advocacy as key priorities. He said the chamber would continue working closely with the government and social partners to implement policies aimed at reducing bureaucracy, modernising business practices, and making Barbados a more attractive destination for investment.

The role of technology in economic expansion was another critical focus, with Clarke urging businesses to embrace digital transformation to drive efficiency and competitiveness.

He referenced BCCI’s 2024 trade engagement with Panama as an example of how strategic partnerships can open new offshore markets and strengthen regional and international business linkages.

Clarke also highlighted the importance of workplace wellness, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension, which have been on the rise among the working population.

He reaffirmed the chamber’s partnership with the National NCD Commission and the Ministry of Health, urging companies to adopt healthier workplace policies as part of their long-term sustainability strategies.

The BCCI president also announced plans to mark the chamber’s 200th anniversary—a historic milestone for the private sector. Celebrations will include a gala awards dinner, a community outreach initiative, a public lecture, and a commemorative magazine aimed at reflecting on the chamber’s legacy while preparing for the future.

Clarke thanked members for their continued support and urged the business community to stay engaged as the chamber pushes for economic reforms, investment growth, and global competitiveness in 2025.

“The work is far from over,” he said.

“We remain committed to ensuring that Barbados is a place where businesses can thrive, innovate, and lead. This is our moment to build a stronger, more resilient economy, and we look forward to working with all of you to make it happen.” 

(SM)