(de Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO – Paramaribo’s harbour is the most attractive option for French Guiana to process their containers and transport those overland. The improvement of the East-West highway is a major plus for Suriname as a transit point for the neighbouring country, but the two governments must also consider administrative aspects to facilitate imports/exports. DP World Paramaribo’s general manager Thierry Vantomme sees much potential in Paramaribo’s harbor. “The harbour has the potential to be very efficient, as it was renovated three years ago and won a regional award for best port last year. That is a good sign, and we see opportunities for growth. A good example is that we can transit to French Guiana.” The Port Authority has been strengthening relations with the French for some time now in order to facilitate possibilities for transit through Suriname. Improving overland connection with French Guiana and a good ferry connection could also play influence the French decision to use Suriname for transit. “Besides infrastructure, the two governments must look for ways to speed up the administrative procedures.” Imports and exports to European territories involve procedures, Customs and paperwork. “Every hour that transport comes to a halt costs money, and that’s why French Guiana will opt for the fastest route. In that case, Suriname is an outstanding option.” The other option is Brazil, yet the distances involved are longer despite the recently opened bridge between these countries. The port multinational bought itself into Integra Port Services (IPS) last August to invest in Suriname. The company, headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, gained a majority share in the Surinamese port companies. Although Paramaribo’s terminal is a small one in DP World’s portfolio, it is an important one, as was evidenced by a visit DP World’s chairman of the board Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem paid last month to the other and the Port Authority. Vantomme says DP World’s vision was made known during the visit. “We really want to invest for the long term”, Vantomme says, adding that investments will be made first in making the port more efficient and making it more productive. DP World is also looking forward to the deepening of the channel, as bigger vessels can enter the port then without having to wait for the tide.
