The Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) kicked off its 22nd annual Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference (CSEC) at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon on May 20 with critical discussions on industry challenges.

Industry leaders and decision-makers across the Caribbean maritime community convened for two days of critical dialogue and collaboration. The conference opened with remarks from CSA general manager Milaika Capella Ras followed by an invocation from Mark Williams of Kingston Wharves Limited. 

CSA president Marc Sampson delivered a thought-provoking address that highlighted the current dynamic landscape of the Caribbean shipping industry, emphasising collaboration and innovation as key drivers for future success. Over 300 delegates participated in CSEC 2024, engaging in discussions on a wide range of topics impacting the region’s maritime sector. 

The agenda included sessions on navigating industry trends, geopolitics, decarbonisation strategies, automation, and fostering well-being within the workforce. A dedicated session explored effective strategies to stimulate Caribbean commerce, while another delved into breaking down barriers for women in maritime careers.

The conference placed a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Attendees gained valuable insights into carbon reduction strategies and best practices for minimizing the industry’s environmental footprint.

Mike Veny, renowned corporate wellness specialist and author, delivered a keynote address that focused on emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and building a resilient workforce. The presentation was well-received by the conference’s delegates, who were particularly engaged by his practical strategies to improve personal well-being, which can translate to their broader lives and their sector.

Sampson, in his address said, Veny’s presence was timely given the association’s current focus noting, “The success of Caribbean shipping hinges on the well-being of our most valuable asset – our people. His insights will equip us to build a resilient and empowered maritime workforce, ready to face any storm.”

The CSEC is not only a platform for knowledge exchange but also for encouraging collaboration. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders and establish connections that can lead to future partnerships and collective action.

PortMiami, a key sponsor of the event, hosted a tour of its facilities, further facilitating networking and relationship building. 

Delegates enjoyed an insightful tour of PortMiami, exploring both the bustling container terminals and the world-class cruise facilities.

Today’s (May 22) second day of the conference delved into the impact of nearshoring and ‘friendshoring’ on the Caribbean region, explored cruise economics, and addressed the ongoing challenge of achieving sustainability in the industry. 

Discussions on public-private partnerships in maritime security, risk management solutions, and the impact of supply chain disruptions will round out the conference program.

The CSA represents the interests of national shipping associations, ship owners, operators and agents, port operators, terminal operators, ship brokers, freight forwarders, and other transportation and logistics service providers in the Caribbean.