Paramaribo has officially been designated as the new headquarters location for the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC), marking a significant strategic shift in regional maritime governance. The Suriname Port Management Company (SPMC) confirmed the establishment of the regional port organization’s secretariat in the Surinamese capital, elevating the nation’s status within Caribbean maritime affairs.
PMAC represents 27 Caribbean ports and maintains an extensive international network of 42 associate members specializing in port-related services, technological innovation, and professional training programs. The formal transfer of administrative operations occurred in November during an official delegation visit to Paramaribo.
SPMC, which has held PMAC membership since 2010, was selected for this prestigious role due to its demonstrated active engagement, commitment to enhancing transnational diversity within the organization, and ongoing developments within Suriname’s port and maritime sectors. The appointment of Mrs. Mary-Ann Abdoelkariem as Executive Secretary further influenced the decision-making process.
This strategic placement provides Suriname with substantial influence over regional port policy formulation and direct access to expertise in port modernization, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and specialized training. The presence of PMAC’s headquarters significantly enhances capacity-building opportunities and strengthens Suriname’s international visibility as an emerging maritime hub.
PMAC has already commenced operations from its new Surinamese base, recently organizing a ‘Risk and Incident Management in a Port Environment’ training program through the Suriname Port Training Institute, which attracted twelve port professionals from across the region.
The secretariat is now operational at NV Havenbeheer Suriname on Havenlaan Zuid. PMAC encourages Surinamese maritime sector businesses and organizations to establish contact and leverage regional collaboration and training opportunities available through the association.