A rush to clear backed-up cargo at the Bridgetown Port left just seven vehicles available for Wednesday’s auction — all of which were sold within 45 minutes.
A crowd of nearly 250 people turned up for the auction, according to port authorities.
The swift sale followed a strong response from consignees, after a February 15 appeal urged them to hasten the clearance and collection of their cargo. The public was also reminded that cargo left unclaimed for more than 30 days is deemed “aged” and may be auctioned if not collected.
Barbados Port Inc. (BPI) Chief Executive Officer David Jean-Marie explained that the auction was aimed at decongesting the port and freeing up much-needed space for incoming cargo — a key factor in maintaining efficient cargo handling.
“Consignees over the last eight weeks responded to the appeal, moved to obtain clearance and delivery of their cargo, and settled their obligations,” Jean-Marie stated.
While some attendees expressed disappointment at the small number of vehicles on offer, Jean-Marie reminded the public that auctioning goods is a measure of last resort — only undertaken after all opportunities have been given to consignees to claim their cargo.
Before any items are auctioned, the Customs and Excise Department conducts a thorough review of the aged cargo list to ensure there are no outstanding legitimate claims.
Winning bidders from Wednesday’s auction are expected to collect their vehicles by 23 April.
Of the ten appeals filed under the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport’s Appeals Mechanism, some vehicles were withdrawn from auction, some were delivered to consignees, and others remain under review.
(PR/BT)
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