Business View Caribbean April 2023

55 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORI TY a workforce of approximately fifty-eight. Each port serves a distinct purpose and clientele, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the marine industry in the islands. The four ports managed by TCIPA are located in Grand Turk, the capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands; South Caicos; Providenciales; and North Caicos. Williams explains that these ports serve different functions, with three, Providenciales, Grand Turk, and South Caicos, primarily handling cargo and North Caicos geared more towards the tourism industry and transporting passengers between Providenciales and North Caicos. The diverse portfolio of ports managed by TCIPA showcases the organization’s ability to cater to various aspects of the marine industry, from cargo transportation to tourism. By providing tailored services at each location, the Ports Authority is well-positioned to meet the needs of business owners and leaders, contributing to the ongoing growth and success of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The customer base of the TCIPA is highly concentrated. According to Jones, the two predominant international shipping lines serving the port in Grand Turk and Providenciales are Tropical Shipping and Seacor Island Lines. Additionally, smaller barges and vessels arrive from neighboring countries, contributing to the overall flow of goods and services. TCIPA’s concentrated customer base also includes key players in the import sector, with a few prominent companies and agents handling imported materials for the construction industry. These primary stakeholders, such as Building Materials Limited, Butterfield Gold LTD and CBMS Limited, ensure that goods reach their intended destinations promptly and efficiently. As a national monopoly, TCIPA works diligently to ensure that its ports operate as efficiently as possible to support the needs of these critical stakeholders. This focus on efficiency benefits the entire community, enabling shipping