The St.Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority will adjust some of its operational charges, following talks with the Caribbean Ship Owners Association.{{more}}

Among some of the charges that will be adjusted are those related to empty container storage and a heavy lift charge, a release said.

Chairman of the Port Authority, Edwin Snagg, said that this is a good development, since it will reduce the cost of doing business at that facility.

Snagg added that there will be some changes to the tug boat tariff, following discussions with the tug boat service providers.

Snagg said that there was always going to be a review of the tug boat charges and service, within a six month period.

As a result of these developments, a proposed Tug Service Surcharge that was mooted by the Caribbean Ship Owners Association has been rescinded.

Snagg has re-emphasized the importance of the tug service for the efficiency and safety of the ports at Kingstown and Campden Park.

He said that there will be further developments at the Port, including a review of the billing procedures, to include the introduction of a Free Along Side system, which will further benefit ship agents, importers, and by extension, the general public.