Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping formally launched

Published on February 16, 2026

A Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping has been launched here with the objective of mobilising the many component parts of the maritime industry.

The idea for the organisation was first proposed by Rolston Taylor and together with Michael Willius introduced the concept to Invest Saint Lucia.

Michael Willius is now the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping.

The CEO Tariq Khan says the Chamber was established to coordinate industry positions, develop policy proposals or systematically engage government and international bodies on a range of matters.

He said at the official launch that “a well organised maritime sector protects food and energy security, reduces import costs, enhances export potential, attracts investments and creates high quality jobs”

The maritime sector encompasses ports, marine facilities including commercial cargo, terminals, ferry ports, cruise ports, energy infrastructure and international shipping lines.

The Saint Lucia Chamber of Shipping will promote policy formulation and advocacy, port development, shipping regulation and international compliance.

The long-term vision of the Chamber is the establishment of a maritime training academy which will serve as a centre of excellence for training, professional certification and lifelong learning, in areas such as port and terminal operations, logistics, shipping, safety and security.

The Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire on behalf of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre welcomed the organisation and pledged government’s continued support.