KINGSTON, Jamaica — A new mixed-use port primarily for the export of aggregate is to be constructed in St Thomas.

This was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness on Thursday during his contribution to the 2026/27 Budget Debate at Gordon House.

The prime minister noted that the development of a new port in St Thomas had been discussed for some time.

“The original intent was to develop an aggregate export port to serve the growing demand for construction materials in regional markets such as Guyana and Suriname. However, Hurricane Melissa has fundamentally expanded our thinking,” he said.

Holness said Hurricane Melissa has served as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Jamaica’s southern coastline and the existential risk that a direct strike on Kingston would pose to the Port of Kingston — and by extension, to the nation’s ability to recover from any such disaster.

“As a result, the Government will now develop, not only an aggregate export port, but one with capacity for mixed-usage similar to Reynolds Pier in St Ann that could serve as a critical backup to the Port of Kingston in the event of a major disaster, while simultaneously driving economic growth and creating much-needed employment opportunities for the people of St Thomas.

“Subject to more detailed feasibility studies, the Port Authority has identified a site near Yallahs, St Thomas that benefits from adequate coastal depth for vessel berthing, proximity to established quarry operations and road access via the newly-completed highway,” Holness said.