The Colombian Federation of Logistics Agents in International Trade (Fitac) voiced concerns over severe logistics issues at Buenaventura port, causing traffic jams up to 25 kilometers long and waits of seven hours. These problems hinder operational efficiency, raise costs, and endanger drivers' safety. Fitac calls on the government and bodies like Dian for coordinated action.
The Colombian Federation of Logistics Agents in International Trade (Fitac) has warned of a persistent logistics crisis at Buenaventura port, Colombia's main gateway. In a statement, the organization notes that traffic congestions near the port stretch over 25 kilometers, with vehicle waits lasting up to seven continuous hours.
These delays prevent adherence to operational schedules, lead to substantial extra costs, and severely undermine overall productivity. Fitac also points to issues with port access, excessive vehicle entry delays, and inadequate capacity in patios and logistics zones to accommodate goods. Failures in appointment assignment systems and container return processes add to the woes, alongside rising security risks.
"Fitac expresses its deep concern over the serious and ongoing logistics situation facing Buenaventura ports, which is directly impacting operational efficiency, the competitiveness of Colombian foreign trade, and the sustainability of the entire logistics chain," the statement reads.
The problems impact Fitac's affiliates, including cargo agents, multimodal transport operators, carriers, warehouses, customs agencies, importers, and exporters. Additional challenges include charges for expired appointments despite the operational collapse and insufficient infrastructure to meet demand.
Fitac views this as a structural risk to Colombia's foreign trade, inflating logistics costs and eroding the country's reliability as a trading partner. Consequently, Fitac president Miguel Ángel Espinosa renewed the appeal to the government, Ministries of Transport and Commerce, the Superintendence of Transport, and Dian for coordinated intervention.
"From Fitac, we reiterate our willingness to contribute, coordinate, and support structural solutions, but we insist that immediate decisions, institutional presence, and concrete actions are needed to restore the port's efficiency, security, and competitiveness," Espinosa stressed.