More than 10 operational bottlenecks affecting the movement and clearance of imported goods at Guyana's ports have been removed or improved following collaboration between the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG), Customs and other government agencies.
This was disclosed by President of the Shipping Association of Guyana and former Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Dr. Komal Singh, who said the improvements form part of ongoing efforts to reduce delays, improve port efficiency and ultimately lower costs for businesses and consumers.
Singh explained that the shipping industry has been working closely with Customs, port operators and government agencies responsible for issuing the various permits and approvals required to clear imported cargo.
He said Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, has also been instrumental in coordinating the agencies involved to address longstanding operational challenges.
"We were very successful in removing and improving many of the areas, over 10 areas, that we have seen some bottlenecks in," Singh disclosed.
According to the businessman, the collaboration has resulted in improvements to processes that previously contributed to delays in the movement of imported goods through the country's ports.
He explained that while progress has been made, the work is far from complete, with discussions continuing among Customs, shipping companies and port operators to identify and address additional inefficiencies.
"I can't say positively here right now that we are where we want to be, but it's an ongoing work. It's an ongoing discussion taking place right now with all the port operators and Customs," Singh said.
The improvements come against the backdrop of longstanding concerns about cargo clearance delays, port congestion and rising costs within Guyana's shipping industry.
Earlier this year, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) raised concerns about delays in the release of imported goods, increased shipping charges and other practices that it said were affecting businesses.
The concerns prompted engagements between the Chamber, the Shipping Association and representatives of the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association.
Among the issues previously identified were delays in processing shipping documents, difficulties obtaining import permits, demurrage charges and congestion at local ports.
Singh said inefficiencies in cargo clearance have significant financial consequences, particularly for importers who are required to pay additional charges when containers remain at ports beyond the permitted period.
He explained that shipping lines generally provide a limited period for importers to collect their containers, transport them to their premises, discharge the goods and return the empty containers.
When that period expires, additional charges may apply, increasing the overall cost of importing goods.
Singh warned that these expenses are often passed on to consumers through higher retail prices.
He also pointed out that delays can be particularly damaging to businesses importing perishable goods, which may deteriorate when they remain at ports for extended periods.
According to Singh, one of the most effective ways to reduce these expenses is for importers and customs brokers to ensure that the necessary documentation is prepared before vessels arrive in Guyana.
He explained that although certain clearance procedures can only be finalised after a vessel arrives, completing the preliminary requirements in advance could allow importers to move containers off the wharf within two to three days.
This, he said, would help businesses avoid unnecessary storage and container-related charges.
The Government has also been examining measures to address demurrage and cargo-handling costs.
During consultations held in April, authorities proposed changes to demurrage arrangements, including the possibility of extending the grace period available to importers before certain charges apply.
Those discussions were intended to address complaints from importers and customs brokers about inconsistent practices and the financial burden associated with shipping delays.
Meanwhile, Singh maintained that improving port efficiency requires a coordinated approach involving all agencies and businesses responsible for moving cargo through the country's ports.
Although he did not identify each of the more than 10 bottlenecks addressed or provide figures showing the reduction in clearance times, he expressed confidence that the ongoing collaboration would produce further improvements.
The Shipping Association, he said, remains committed to working with the relevant agencies to streamline cargo movement, reduce unnecessary expenses and ensure that Guyana's shipping infrastructure keeps pace with the country's expanding economy.
