Over 300 leaders in shipping and logistics from the Caribbean, Latin America, and the United States are attending the 23rd Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference (CSEC) this week in Fort Lauderdale. The event is hosted by the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina from May 19 to May 20, 2025.
The conference aims to explore significant factors influencing both regional and global maritime industries during a period of rapid change for the sector. Discussions will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, trade policy, climate resilience, cruise competitiveness, maritime security, and global supply chain disruptions.
CSA President William Brown and CSA General Manager Milaika Capella Ras will deliver opening remarks. Broward County Commissioner for District 9 Hon. Hazelle P. Rogers and Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades, will also address attendees. New delegates will be introduced during the opening ceremony.
“As a proud Jamaican and a Broward County Commissioner, I am honored to welcome the Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference to Fort Lauderdale,” said Hazelle P. Rogers. “By choosing our County once again to host their conference, the Caribbean Shipping Association recognizes everyone under the sun and how inviting our community is for doing business and participating in leisure activities.”
Joseph Morris highlighted Port Everglades’ role in Caribbean trade: “As the leading gateway between the United States of America and the Caribbean, we value our strong trade partnership with the Caribbean Shipping Association and its members,” he said. “I am especially proud to showcase to its membership how our port is advancing infrastructure improvements to further support efficient trade with island nations for years to come.”
William Brown remarked on CSEC’s importance: “The Caribbean Shipping Executives’ Conference continues to be a vital platform for industry collaboration, reflection, and action,” he stated. “As we confront complex global challenges, our ability to come together, share insights, and innovate across borders is more important than ever.”
Milaika Capella Ras commented on this year’s agenda: “This year’s conference reflects the dynamism of our industry and resilience of our members,” she noted. “From AI integration to climate adaptation, topics on the agenda speak to both current realities and future ambitions.”
Sponsors supporting CSEC include Port Everglades; HIT Rio Haina Port; King Ocean; Shipco Transport; Puerto Nuevo Terminal; Taylor International; Kingston Wharves Ltd.; Svitzer; Tropical Shipping; Tote Maritime; Caribconex; Inter-American Development Bank; CFL Global Logistics Solutions; Seaboard Marine; SSA Maritime MIT.
