Miami, FL – A high-level delegation from PortMiami recently concluded a significant visit to Jamaica on August 22, 2025, aimed at fortifying the robust maritime and trade connections between the two entities. The trip underscored Jamaica’s pivotal role as PortMiami’s largest trading partner in the U.S. Caribbean network, marking a proactive step towards enhancing collaboration and mutual economic growth.
Strategic Engagement with Jamaican Maritime Leaders
The PortMiami contingent, comprising Sonless Martin, Global Trade & Business Development, and Stanley Rigaud, Intermodal Cargo Development Administrator, engaged in a series of productive meetings with key figures across Jamaica’s maritime and logistics sectors. These discussions were designed to foster a deeper understanding of shared objectives and identify concrete opportunities for strengthening existing ties.
Key Partnerships and Discussions
Central to the visit were meetings with representatives from JAMPRO, including Nicholas Sutherland and Rochelle Lewis, who play a crucial role in promoting Jamaica’s trade and investment. The delegation also met with executives from Kingston Wharves Limited, a leading multipurpose port terminal and logistics provider, including Chairman Jeffrey Hall and CFO Clover Moodie. Further engagement took place with Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL), a critical transshipment hub, where the PortMiami team met with newly appointed CEO Carlos Cabrera and Clifford Anglin. The visit concluded with a courtesy meeting with representatives from RSD Shipping Agency, Kerry Lediard and Jamie Thomas.
These sessions focused on identifying collaborative avenues to improve logistical efficiencies and expand trade flows, leveraging the close geographic and commercial links between Miami and Jamaica. Following the meetings, the PortMiami delegation toured Kingston Wharves’ advanced terminal facilities.
Jamaica’s Growing Significance in Trade
Jamaica holds a significant position within PortMiami’s trade landscape. In 2024 alone, PortMiami handled approximately 18,368 TEUs of exports and 3,256 TEUs of imports to and from Jamaica. More broadly, Jamaica contributes over $300 million in annual trade value to PortMiami, and in the second quarter of 2024, it ranked as the third-largest export destination by value. This sustained economic activity highlights the vital nature of the bilateral trade relationship.
Broader Context of U.S.-Jamaica Cooperation
This visit builds upon a longstanding and multifaceted partnership between the United States and Jamaica. The two nations have a history of collaboration on security matters, including maritime drug interdiction through the Shiprider Agreement, and trade facilitation through initiatives like the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA). PortMiami’s engagement in Jamaica is also part of a broader strategy to bolster regional connectivity. Earlier in 2025, PortMiami successfully participated in Expo Jamaica 2025, engaging with over 40 companies and discussing critical areas such as trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability.
Future Outlook
The productive nature of the August 2025 visit has laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration. PortMiami executives expressed optimism regarding the potential for enhanced partnerships that will further strengthen maritime and logistics connections, ultimately benefiting both economies. This ongoing dialogue and cooperation are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of global shipping and trade, reinforcing Jamaica’s position as a key player in regional and international logistics.
The exchange signifies a continued commitment from PortMiami to nurturing strong relationships with its Caribbean partners, ensuring efficient and effective trade routes that contribute to economic prosperity for all involved. The news of these strengthened ties is a positive development for the shipping industry in the region.