PREPARATION OF REGIONAL MARITIME AfT TRANSPORTATION PROPOSAL WTO Forum, Barbados, 27 January 2011 JOHN LEWIS CARICOM Secretariat

OUTLINE Background Objectives Results to be achieved Assumptions Scope of work and timeline

BACKGROUND Breakdown of trade barriers - –multiple impacts on regional and international trade –development of a complex int’l distribution chain –increased containerisation of cargo –need to modernize port infrastructure and port operations –need for enhanced transport logistics involving ICT Regional challenge – –To improve port efficiencies and connectivity –To increase competitiveness, reduce shipping cost –To remain compliant with int’l safety and security standards

BACKGROUND CARICOM HoG mandated the development of a major regional AfT maritime transport project (AMTP) that is transformational in nature and embraces all CARICOM States AMTP to be presented to int’l development partners IDB willing to provide technical assistance for the preparation of the AMTP CCS working with IDB on ToR for Consultancy

OVERALL OBJECTIVE Establishment of a comprehensive, efficient, multi-modal transportation system that is: responsive to the changing shipping demands of the region promotes regional social and economic integration and trade competitiveness contributes positively to the growth and development of regional economies

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE and TASKS To prepare a comprehensive proposal with clearly identified components and budget estimates –to be used as the principal instrument to mobolise resources from AfT facilities for the development of the regional maritime transportation sector

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE and TASKS Tasks include - –Review of national and sub-regional maritime transport plans, reports, project proposals developed and submitted to donors –Identification of current status of port infrastructure (e.g., capacity; legislation and administration; safety and security measures; logistics, including cargo handling methods; employment of ICT solutions; training needs) and critical issues –Preparation of Blue Print to support the development of Proposal

RESULTS TO BE ACHIEVED Better understanding among CARICOM States of the challenges facing the region’s maritime transport infrastructure Indication of the status of the region’s ports, port operation and supporting infrastructure Issues to be incorporated in the design of comprehensive regional, multi-modal, transportation system Identification of additional studies, databases, information requirements, etc., to inform the development of multi-modal transportation system Blue Print for the development of the transportation system

ASSUMPTIONS Existing information and that to be acquired will be sufficient to inform the preparation of regional AfT maritime transport project Acquisition of the services of a multi- disciplinary team of experts with appropriate range of expertise and experience to undertake preparation of project Support of CARICOM States and other stakeholders for Project and its execution

NEXT STEPS Preparation of an Issues Paper setting out the results of a preliminary review of available documentation and CC-IDB consultations Receipt of Technical Assistance from IDB for preparation of Issues Paper Submission of a Report to Heads of Government Conference (February 2011) on status of execution of mandate Follow up activities based on conclusions and recommendations of HoGC NEXT STEPS

Thank You