13 Jan Trade Tip: Staying Ahead of Global Trade Logistics Trends

2026 Trade Tip: Logistics pressures persist globally: Export Saint Lucia helps local exporters plan, access trade facilitation support, and benefit from improving regional logistics  

According to the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Small Island Developing States like those in the Caribbean continue to face maritime connectivity challenges, higher freight costs, and inefficiencies at ports that affect export competitiveness. This is driven by climate disruptions, Panama Canal constraints, and logistical bottlenecks.

Why it matters:

• Caribbean ports generally face higher operational costs and delays compared to global averages, reducing export competitiveness.
• Logistics inefficiencies can increase costs and time to market for goods bound for extra‑regional destinations.
• Exporters benefit from planning, trade facilitation support, and diversified market access to mitigate these impacts.

As the leading agency for export maximization, Export Saint Lucia actively monitors these developments to help local manufacturers, service providers, and potential exporters stay competitive and maintain market access.

How we do it:

• Prioritize Strategic Logistics Planning

Global supply chains remain volatile with freight cost fluctuations and connectivity pressures. Planning early with logistics partners helps exporters control costs and avoid delays by choosing efficient routes and consolidating cargo.

• Use Trade Facilitation Tools & Digital Systems

Simplifying customs and export procedures helps reduce time and cost at borders. Many Caribbean countries are adopting trade facilitation programs under the WTO and via UNCTAD support to improve transparency and efficiency.

• Explore Emerging Regional Logistics Improvements

Regional hubs in the Caribbean are evolving, with planned improvements to transshipment and hub‑and‑spoke networks expected to help manage cargo flows and reduce bottlenecks by 2026.