PARAMARIBO, Suriname – Paramaribo’s Nieuwe Haven (New Harbor) terminal claimed high points from the Caribbean Ship-owners Association. Figures published by the trade magazine Caribbean Maritime, show that as far as loading and unloading of container shipments was concerned, the harbor had the best performance in the Caribbean. As recent as 2008, Nieuwe Haven was at 15th place, handling 8.8 containers per hour.

Nieuwe Haven on the left bank of the Suriname river

“This year Paramaribo is at first place with 22,39 containers per berth hour,” NV Havenbeheer -the Harbor Operating Company –Suriname reports in a press release. The company expects that in 2011 Nieuwe Haven will outdo even the 2010 performance, and expand its lead on other harbors.

“The institutional reorganization that we are implementing – including the implementation of the “Landlord Model”- as well as the formalization of contracts with carefully selected operators, have improved our efficiency and productivity,” the press release stated.

Since 2002 there have been substantial public and private sector investments made at Nieuwe Haven; the infrastructure was renovated and modernized, and the carrying capacity of the quay has been increased to two tons per square meter. The length of the dock is now being expanded; ultimately –when the works are completed by April 2011- the dock will be able to carry five tons per square meter. Private investments concern the commissioning of new mobile and stationary cranes and modern warehouses.

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