Grenada’s economy is deeply connected to trade. From importing essential goods to exporting agricultural products, the efficiency of logistics systems determines the country’s competitiveness and resilience. Yet, inefficiencies in the movement of goods have long inflated costs, caused delays, and limited Grenada’s ability to thrive in regional and global markets. 

A recent Logistics Chain Study for Grenada, commissioned by the Caribbean Development Bank, provides a comprehensive assessment of these challenges and, more importantly, outlines a clear roadmap for reform. This roadmap is not just about fixing problems—it is about unlocking opportunities for growth, investment, and resilience.

The Challenges: Why Change Is Urgent

Grenada’s logistics system faces multiple constraints. The Port of St. George’s operates with outdated equipment and lacks container cranes, while the airport struggles with limited cargo space and no modern cold-chain facilities. These infrastructure gaps slow operations and increase costs, particularly for perishable exports like fresh produce and fish. 

Connectivity remains another hurdle. Maritime services are limited, and air connectivity remains challenged due to limited operators and the high cost of regional travel. Inland, poor road conditions and aging truck fleets make it difficult to move goods efficiently from farms and factories to export markets. 

Governance and operational inefficiencies compound these issues. Customs processes are largely paper-based, tariffs are outdated, and there is no single agency coordinating logistics reforms. Meanwhile, the sector suffers from a shortage of skilled professionals and limited adoption of digital tools, leaving bottlenecks unresolved and innovation stifled. 

These weaknesses make Grenada vulnerable to external shocks and raise the cost of living. But they also highlight where the greatest opportunities lie.

The Opportunity: Logistics as a Growth Engine

Improving logistics is not simply a technical exercise—it is a strategic imperative. Modern, efficient systems can lower costs for businesses and consumers, boost exports, attract investment, and strengthen food security. By transforming logistics, Grenada can position itself as a competitive player in regional and global value chains.

The Roadmap: Steps Toward Transformation

The study proposes a series of practical, high-impact actions that can be implemented in the short to medium term. These include modernising port operations through investments in a terminal operating system, updated equipment, and an off-site container depot to ease congestion. 

Coordination across stakeholders is critical. A Port Community System would connect customs, port authorities, shippers, and transporters, streamline processes and reduce delays. At the same time, the upgrade of cold-chain infrastructure at both the port and airport is essential to support the export of perishables and improve food security. 

Governance reforms are equally important. Revising tariffs, improving transparency, and designating a lead agency to oversee logistics modernisation will ensure accountability and policy coherence. Building human capacity through training in logistics, supply chain management, and digital trade facilitation will equip Grenadians with the skills needed to sustain these improvements. 

Finally, investments in rural and farm roads, along with modernising truck fleets, will ensure goods can move efficiently from production points to markets.

Looking Ahead: A National Imperative

Modernising Grenada’s logistics sector is no longer optional—it is essential for economic resilience and growth. By implementing these reforms, Grenada can reduce costs, improve reliability, and create new opportunities for trade and investment. 

The benefits will be far-reaching - lower prices for consumers, greater market access for farmers and entrepreneurs, and a stronger, more resilient economy prepared for future shocks. 

Grenada therefore stands at a turning point. Sector modernisation will build a stronger, more competitive economy. By investing in infrastructure, embracing digital solutions, and strengthening governance, the country can reduce costs, improve reliability, and open doors to new markets.

The rewards are clear. Grenada has the vision, the strategy, and the opportunity to transform logistics from a constraint into a catalyst for national development. With a clear roadmap in hand, Grenada can turn logistics from a constraint into a driver of inclusive growth and long-term prosperity.