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What is the Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping?

The Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping is a professional agency that represents the interests of all stakeholders involved in shipping, logistics, marine services, trade, and allied industries. Its aim is to encourage and promote best practices in the maritime industry, facilitate collaboration and advocate for policies that will enhance sustainable growth in the sector. The agency will seek to identify inefficiencies in the sector then formulate and execute strategies to overcome these challenges.

The Chamber aims to:

  • Represent members’ interests at national, regional and international levels.
  • Promote safe, efficient and environmentally responsible shipping operations.
  • Strengthen Saint Lucia as a competitive maritime hub in the Caribbean.
  • Provide training, networking and information sharing opportunities.
  • Collaboration with government agencies and port authorities on policy and infrastructure development.
  • Develop new avenues for revenue earnings by providing services to the maritime industry that currently do not exist locally.
  • Foster partnerships globally to encourage foreign investment into Saint Lucia

Membership is open to organizations and individuals involved in the maritime and logistics sectors, which would include:

  • Shipping agents and freight forwarders
  • Port Operators and Terminal Companies
  • Marine Surveyors and Insurers
  • Customs Brokers and Logistics providers
  • Maritime Training Institutions and related professionals
  • Local Manufacturers and Service Providers (Import Reliant for Raw Materials and Exporters)
  • Shipping and Cruise Lines
  • Yachting and Marina Personnel
  • Importers (Wholesalers – Food, Drink, Cleaning Materials, etc. required by Hotel/Tourism Sector)

You can apply by completing the membership application form available on the Chamber’s website or by contacting the Chamber’s office during working hours. Applicants will be reviewed by the Executive committee to ensure alignment with the Chamber’s objectives.

Members gain access to:

  • Representation in national maritime discussions and policymaking.
  • Networking with industry leaders and government officials 
  • Exclusive training and discounted certification opportunities.
  • Updates on Maritime regulations, compliance and industry trends
  • Use of the Chamber’s resources and support services.

The Chamber collaborates with local and international partners to provide professional development in areas such as:

  • Port and Shipping Management
  • Maritime Safety and Environmental Compliance
  • Customs and Logistics Operations
  • Digitalization in shipping and supply chain management
  • Leadership and business management in the Maritime sector
  • Vessel Inspection and Draft Surveys
  • Oil Spill Handling and Management

The chamber serves as an advisory partner to the Government on matters related to maritime trade, port operations and logistics. It provides technical input on legislation, infrastructure development and policy initiatives that affect the shipping and logistics industry. The Chamber will advocate for change in policy to enhance the productivity and efficiency of port operations to reduce the cost impact on its members and the public.

The Chamber will maintain active relationships with regional bodies such as the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) and international organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO). These connections will ensure that Saint Lucia’s maritime interests are represented globally.

The Chamber will promote environmental stewardship through advocacy and education. It encourages members to adopt eco-friendly technologies, energy-efficient operations, and waste reduction practices in compliance with international maritime conventions.

Yes. The Chamber offers general guidance on shipping procedures, import/export processes and industry-related queries. However, it does not directly handle shipping documentation or customs clearances, these are managed by licensed agents. However, the chamber will be able to recommend the best option to cater to your specific needs from our member list.

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