The government will strengthen port security by implementing a Container Control Programme (CCP) to detect and intercept illicit goods moving through maritime borders.
Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond outlined the initiative during the opening of the 31st Caribbean Port State Control Conference and Regional Meeting of Directors and Heads of Maritime Administrations at the AC Marriott Hotel in Ogle on Monday.
The ministry is currently implementing the programme in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Minister Walrond explained that while the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control focuses on inspections of foreign vessels to ensure compliance with international safety, security, environmental and labour standards, the CCP will focus on identifying high-risk cargo containers that may be used for trafficking drugs, weapons, contraband, and other illicit goods.
“Together, the Caribbean MoU and the Container Control Programme will help ensure that both the vessel and its cargo are subject to effective oversight, strengthening the overall security of the maritime transport chain,” the minister added.
According to her, integrating the two systems will improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination among key border agencies.
“By combining regulatory compliance measures with intelligence-led cargo targeting, we create a comprehensive framework that improves port security, facilitates the detection of transnational organised crime, and supports the safe and secure movement of legitimate trade throughout the Caribbean region,” she said.
She said such coordination is essential as criminal networks continue to exploit legitimate trade routes for illicit activity.
The three-day conference brings together maritime officials and port state control representatives from across the Caribbean to discuss vessel safety, compliance, and regional cooperation on maritime security.