By S.Browne. Press Release. Updated 4:05 p.m., Monday, October 13, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
A new chapter in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ maritime history has begun with the official announcement of the Modern Port Operating Company (MPOC), set to replace the longstanding St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority (SVGPA) as the nation’s primary port operator.
The announcement was made by Mr. Carl James, CEO of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority, during a press conference held in Kingstown. The transition aligns with the completion of the country’s state of the art port facility, marking a strategic shift in how trade logistics and maritime services are managed across the archipelago.
“For decades, our port operations relied on manual systems and basic infrastructure,” Mr. James stated. “Today, we are entering a new era defined by technology, efficiency, and global competitiveness.”
Under the new structure, SVGPA will transition into an independent regulatory body focused on oversight, policy, and safety standards. MPOC will assume full responsibility for terminal operations, cargo handling, customer service, and facility management across the port system including the new deep water port, the existing city terminal, ferry services, commercial parking, and smaller ports throughout the Grenadines.
The restructuring aims to introduce clearer accountability and align with international best practices. Separating regulatory and operational functions is expected to enhance agility, attract investment, and foster stronger public private partnerships.
Mr. James explained “This model is employed globally and positions us to be world class,”. “It’s not just about digital services it’s about holistic integration of our entire port network.” MPOC’s operational footprint will span cargo and cruise terminals, warehouse and freight processing, berth management, and customer logistics.
The company has already initiated a digitization project to create a fully integrated port environment, including terminal operating systems, virtual scheduling, data analytics, and cybersecurity protocols. The transition is ongoing, with close coordination among stakeholders to ensure safety, continuity, and service reliability.
On September 29,2025, Dr Prime Minister Gonsalves presented a Bill to parliament for the restructuring of the SVG Port Authority saying that while the SVG Port Authority will still exist, it will no longer own facilities but to regulate all ports in the country, this would now be so under the Modern Port Operating Company (MPOC).
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