Shipping January 06 2026

A backbone in times of crisis: The shipping sector looks ahead to 2026

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  • An aerial shot of the Port of Kingston. An aerial shot of the Port of Kingston.
  • Corah Ann Sylvester-Robertson, president of the Jamaica Shipping Association.

    Corah Ann Sylvester-Robertson, president of the Jamaica Shipping Association.

As we welcome 2026, I extend warm wishes to our members, partners, and the wider port community. The past year reminded us of both our vulnerabilities and our extraordinary resilience. Hurricane Melissa tested Jamaica in ways we had not seen in decades. Many families, including some connected to our industry, faced devastation and loss. Yet, in the face of adversity, our sector responded quickly and with unity, strength, and unwavering compassion.

Our terminals, shipping lines, logistics providers, warehouse operators, truckers, and countless staff mobilised immediately – processing humanitarian shipments, donating containers, providing warehouse space, transporting relief supplies, and volunteering across affected communities. The Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) is profoundly proud of the role our members played in accelerating national recovery. Your actions demonstrated that the shipping industry is not only the backbone of trade but also a pillar of national resilience.

Even before the hurricane, 2025 presented major economic and policy challenges. The evolving US tariffs under Section 301 created uncertainty for Caribbean exporters and placed additional pressure on our logistics chain. As an industry, we confronted these developments collectively – advocating, informing, and preparing our members through timely updates, dialogue, and regional collaboration. This experience reinforced the critical role the SAJ plays in shaping unified responses to external shocks.

Global pressures

Amid these national and global pressures, the association embarked on the necessary process of internal transformation. After decades as a labour-based organisation, the SAJ is completing its transition into a modern, service-oriented association – one designed to support the realities of a rapidly evolving logistics and maritime landscape. This shift represents continuity and evolution, strengthening the foundations laid by those who served before.

This transformation coincided with a seamless leadership transition. The appointment of General Manager Terrence Brooks marked the next phase of a journey shaped by the strong groundwork established under previous management. Terrence has been building on that legacy, enhancing operational structures, strengthening member relations, and advancing the association’s business-focused direction. I commend the management team and staff for embracing this momentum and deepening the culture of professionalism that defines the SAJ.

I must also extend heartfelt appreciation to the managing committee of the SAJ. Their steadfast support, guidance, and stewardship have been invaluable. As the body responsible for setting policy, shaping the association’s strategic direction, and overseeing its affairs, the committee has provided the stability, clarity, and leadership required during a period of significant change. Their commitment has strengthened our governance and ensured the SAJ remains anchored and forward-looking.

We also expanded and deepened our services. Our data protection consultancy, Canine and Security Services, HR consulting, and SAJ Academy training programmes continued to grow, providing members with relevant, high-quality support in a rapidly evolving landscape. These developments signal SAJ’s deliberate march towards diversified, professional service lines that meet international standards.

Significant milestones

Our members, too, achieved significant milestones. Investments in hybrid straddle carriers, super post-panamax cranes, expanded terminal capacity, digital upgrades, governance reforms, and major infrastructure improvements are strengthening Jamaica’s position as a competitive logistics hub. These achievements remind us of what is possible when vision is matched with action.

As we step into 2026, the SAJ will focus on three priorities:

1. Deepening member value

Strengthening our service offerings, enhancing engagement, and amplifying the SAJ’s role as an advocate, facilitator, and solutions partner.

2. Accelerating industry modernisation

Championing digital transformation, supporting workforce development, and continuing to press for improvements in infrastructure, safety, and climate resilience.

3. Strengthening community partnerships

Remaining fully committed to the long recovery ahead in western Jamaica, working with relief partners, schools, communities, and member companies to restore stability and hope.

The road ahead requires bold leadership, shared responsibility, and a united vision for the future. But, if 2025 showed us anything, it is that our industry has the determination, creativity, and heart to rise above every challenge.

Together, we will continue building a stronger, more resilient, and globally competitive Jamaican shipping industry.

On behalf of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, I wish you a peaceful, prosperous, and purpose-driven New Year.