Alumina producer Jamalco resolves port logistical challenges, reopens Rocky Point after repairs

The Jamaica-based bauxite mining and alumina-producing company Jamalco has successfully reopened its Rocky Point port following extensive repairs, resuming normal shipping operations. The port's conveyor system was damaged by storm conditions caused by Hurricane Beryl, which passed offshore on July 3 and impacted Jamaica's southern coast.

In response to the damage, Jamalco declared force majeure and temporarily shifted to alternative port arrangements to fulfill shipments. However, the interim solutions presented logistical challenges, and the company acknowledged that only partial commitments were met during the disruption.

With the Rocky Point port back in operation, Jamalco has restored its regular shipment schedules, concluding the challenges posed by the storm damage.

Repairs to the six-decade-old dock amounted to approximately US$10 million, equivalent to J$1.58 billion. Jamalco stated that the project involved clearing debris from the seabed and carrying out preparations with three large barges and a 350-tonne crane brought in from Virginia.

Melanie Thwaites, Civil Engineer and Project Manager said, “The restored dock and supporting structure are now stronger and bigger, with 36-foot-wide piles installed to support the trestle system and a reinstated 2,000-foot conveyor belt.”

Despite the disruption, operations remain on track to achieve the full annual capacity of 1.2 million tonnes of alumina. According to data from the Planning Institute of Jamaica, sector-wide alumina production increased by 15 per cent in the June quarter, while bauxite production surged by 24 per cent.

In its quarterly report on the preliminary performance of the Jamaican economy, the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) stated, “The bauxite capacity utilisation rate decreased by 11.2 percentage points to 35.9 per cent.”