Anthony Hylton, Opposition Spokesperson on Industry, Investment and Global Logistics, outlined that the Kingston Gateway Commercial and Warehouse Complex will provide employment for persons from the respective communities and lift the operating standards of many legacy projects and facilities that currently occupy space in the surrounding area.

Hylton noted that several of the logistics facilities are in dire need of upgrades and modernisation but noted that Kingston Gateway will set a high bar when completed.

Hylton also expressed, while speaking at the Kingston Gateway event, that he remains consistently unequivocal about the central role that logistics plays in improving the competitiveness, agility, flexibility and productivity of businesses and, by extension, the economy.

He also noted that the role for logistics in helping to transform Jamaica’s economy from a low-performing to a high-performing economy is evidently unassailable. “It is the reason why I am hopeful that the logistics hub initiative first articulated during the Portia Simpson Miller administration and key components such as the identification of CMACJ Shipping Company as the concessionaire to operate the Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited, the passage of the Special Economic Zone legislation, the subsequent establishment of the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority, as well as the framework to establish the Caymanas Special Economic Zone, and of course, the Logistics Hub master plan, and master analysis, all of which were put in place in that year will remain the centerpiece of Jamaica’s growth strategy and our efforts to build a logistic-centered economy,” Hylton said.

He emphasised that the partnership between PROVEN Properties and SAJE Logistics Infrastructure Limited entities has brought together the right mix of expertise, resulting in this premier logistics project. “More importantly, the investment showcases a model of doing infrastructure development in Jamaica that offers wealth for the logistics and supply chain industry, a key driver for sustained economic growth going forward.”

Additionally, Kim Clarke, Chairman of Kingston Gateway and SAJE Logistics Infrastructure, outlined that through this partnership, businesses will not only benefit from streamlined operations but also highlighted that those that book early will have the opportunity to combine two or more units for expanded space in the complex.

“Kingston Gateway will also join a portfolio of over half a million square feet of residential and commercial properties managed by our subsidiary group SAJE Properties Infrastructure Limited, which has a reputation for high-quality engagement services and responsiveness to the needs of owners and tenants alike.”

Clarkes also noted that the completion of this project is being managed by skilled professionals from Jamaica. “Our aim is to maintain the high quality of the project that has had the benefits of designs by one of Jamaica’s formidable professional teams: architects, engineers, contractors, landmark groups, and project management,” he added.