Business View Caribbean - July 2024

on the organization’s history, explaining that it was established as a government statutory body in 2008. Prior to its formation, the government managed the ports through the customs department, which later evolved into a separate government cost center known as the port administration. A similar pattern of evolution can be observed in many Caribbean nations. Today, the Ports Authority manages four government ports, carrying out all essential port responsibilities, such as safety, security, and staffing.The organization works within the government’s regulatory framework and partners with several government entities to ensure environmental and pollution requirements compliance. The only private port in the area, the Carnival Cruise Corporation Port Grand Cruise Center, is not part of TCIPA’s remit. Tueton Williams, Chairman of the board at TCIPA, emphasizes the importance of adhering to environmental regulations, stating that the organization is “absolutely” committed to working closely with the government to maintain high standards. Over the years, the TCIPA has adapted to the changing landscape of the marine industry while maintaining its core mandate. Jones emphasizes that their responsibilities have evolved, saying, “It’s not just port management, but supply chain efficiency, the changing international security landscape, climate change, and other considerations.” Historically, the focus of the Ports Authority was primarily on ensuring the safe delivery of cargo,which in the past was mainly bulk. However, as the shipping environment transitioned to containerization, TCIPA has had to adapt and expand its scope to address emerging challenges and opportunities. Moreover, Jones highlights the need to become “less insular,” considering the interests of stakeholders and the impact of activities on the community, including how operations affect residents’ living costs. Operationally, the TCIPA oversees a comprehensive range of operations across four ports, employing 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. 17 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 11, ISSUE 07 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS PORT AUTHORI TY