REMARKS BY

HONOURABLE KYE M. RYMER

MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKS

ON THE DOCKWORKERS PORT STRIKES IN THE U.S.A.

OCTOBER 1st 2024

Greetings to the residents of the Virgin Islands,

The Government of the Virgin Islands is actively monitoring the strike by the dockworkers at ports along the eastern seaboard of the United States that is affecting ports from Maine to Texas.

I am pleased to inform you that the British Virgin Islands Port Authority (BVIPA) has confirmed that all scheduled shipments for October are expected to proceed without interruption. Meanwhile, the West Palm Beach Port, a vital hub for Tropical Shipping—the primary carrier for our cargo from the USA—is not participating in the strike and continues to operate normally.

While our shipping lines do not operate through unionised ports, we recognise that the duration of these strikes could potentially impact our supply chain.

We remain hopeful for a swift resolution; however, extended disruptions may lead to delays in our shipments. It is crucial to note that shipping companies prioritise essential goods, and our supermarkets are actively coordinating with suppliers to manage inventory levels effectively. We will keep you updated as we continue to monitor this situation closely.

Thank you for your understanding and support during these challenging times.