Kingston Wharves is positioning itself as a major force in global logistics, with strong growth driven largely by rising cargo volumes and expanding international operations.

The company reported an 18% increase in revenue to $13 billion and more than 30% growth in net profit for its latest financial year. 

Speaking on Taking Stock with Kalilah Reynolds, CEO Mark Williams says the real story is Kingston’s growing role as a global transshipment hub, particularly in the movement of motor vehicles.

“Kingston Wharves has now become and continues to become a real global player,” Williams said, noting that the company moved more than 180,000 motor units across over 45 countries.

While many Jamaicans may assume the surge in vehicle shipments reflects local demand, Williams clarified that roughly 80 per cent of those vehicles are not destined for Jamaica. Instead, they are transshipped through Kingston to markets as far as Australia and New Zealand, highlighting the island’s strategic position in global trade.

That growth has been supported by increased activity across multiple segments, including bulk cargo such as grains, edible oils and construction-related materials, particularly in the third quarter. The company has also leaned heavily on productivity improvements, cost management and technology investments to drive profitability.

At the same time, Kingston Wharves is expanding its regional footprint. The company recently acquired a 27% stake in Cargo Handlers Limited for $1.1 billion, a move Williams described as part of a broader strategy to grow across the Caribbean and create operational synergies rather than pursue a full takeover.

Despite the strong performance, challenges remain. Williams pointed to rising costs and global supply chain disruptions as ongoing risks, particularly amid geopolitical tensions affecting shipping routes. However, he said the company’s diversified operations have helped cushion those impacts.

Locally, the company has also moved past recent congestion issues caused by a surge in uncollected barrels following Hurricane Melissa. Williams said operations have since returned to normal after extended working hours and increased staffing helped clear the backlog.

Looking ahead, Kingston Wharves is betting on logistics as its next major growth area, with plans to expand services beyond traditional port operations into areas like warehousing, distribution and packaging.