Saint Lucia has officially launched the Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s maritime development.
This new institution aims to unify stakeholders in the shipping and maritime sectors, fostering growth, regulatory coherence, and economic expansion. By providing a structured platform for collaboration, the chamber supports Saint Lucia’s ambition to strengthen its blue economy and enhance port efficiency.
Its establishment reflects a strategic move to position Saint Lucia as a regional hub for maritime services in the Caribbean. The creation of the Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping is a groundbreaking step forward for the island’s maritime sector.
Invest Saint Lucia (ISL) played a pivotal role in bringing this initiative to fruition, under the guidance of Mr. George Michanitzis, Managing Director of MSPM & SLCS Consultants.
Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister of Tourism, Commerce, and Economic Development, expressed his initial hesitance but ultimately recognized the importance of the chamber after attending several seminars.
“I must say that it took many attempts to convince me of its importance, but after a few seminars and presentations, I was more than sold,” he stated.
Mr. William Brown, President of the Caribbean Shipping Association, described the establishment of the chamber as a unified statement that shipping is organized and that Saint Lucia is ready to lead the way. The Chamber of Shipping aims to provide structure, representation, and job creation, sending a positive message to international investors.
Key stakeholders shared, “Congratulations to the Board, Executive, and staff of the Chamber on this milestone achievement.”
What began as a bold idea is now a unified platform driving growth in Saint Lucia’s maritime sector. In 2024, Invest Saint Lucia set this journey in motion, laying the foundation for a chamber designed to strengthen industry linkages, elevate global competitiveness, and unlock the untapped potential of the oceans.
Two years later, that vision has become a reality, giving the shipping industry a strong, collective voice while opening doors in yachting, maritime training, infrastructure development, and investment.
At the recent launch, the CEO of the Chamber of Shipping remarked, “This significant occasion represents the culmination of our collective efforts, transforming an initial vision into a tangible reality. It exemplifies our firm commitment to developing a comprehensive strategy aimed at advancing the island’s maritime sector.”
A company spokesperson added, “Congratulations to the Chamber of Shipping team on this milestone. Together, we look ahead, ready to navigate the future and seize new opportunities for our maritime industry.”