Sub-Projects for Logistics Hub will be Implemented – Industry Minister

Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, has expressed confidence that the necessary short term sub-projects will be implemented in time to make the Jamaica Logistics Hub operational and effective by 2015.

Speaking at a Jamaica House press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, on Wednesday, May 15, Minister Hylton pointed out that four things are critical to meeting the deadline for the opening of the widened Panama Canal, on which the project hinges.

These include: dredging of the channel in the harbour; privatization and modernisation of the port of Kingston; establishment of the logistics centre at Caymanas; and implementation of a community port system at Jamaica Customs.

The Minister said the mega projects, such as the dry dock facility and the commodity port are medium to long term projects. They are critical to the overall transformational effect of the projects, and would take a longer time to come on stream.

“From where I sit, we have every opportunity, every possibility to meet that timeline, and be ready for the opening of the Panama Canal,” he added.

The logistics hub initiative is critical to the government’s overall growth strategy for the economy, and will see Jamaica becoming the fourth node in the global logistics chain, joining Rotterdam, Singapore and Dubai.

Jamaica’s strategic geographic position on major sea lanes and air routes to North and South America, as well as Europe and South East Asia, has increased its competitive advantage, particularly in the logistics and shipping sector.

With the expansion of the Panama Canal to be completed in 2015, Jamaica’s unique location, and natural resources, such as two of the best natural harbours in the world, will see the Logistics Hub initiative enhancing the global trading system, and as such representing a global asset.

Contact: Alphea Saunders