Arica Port Authority Boosts Security Coordination Amid Logistics Disruptions

The Port of Arica’s coordination committee met for its fifth session of the year to strengthen security and health measures around the terminal. Led by Empresa Portuaria Arica (EPA), the meeting gathered the Chilean Navy, sanitary authorities and other public agencies to address informal trade, incivilities and the ongoing "Fruit Sale" operation.

Officials reported a 6% rise in cargo transfers and an 18% increase in TEU movements despite a 52‑day blockade in Bolivia and a record 892 hours of port closures caused by storm surges. Captain of the Port, Felipe Rodríguez, pledged continued vigilance and joint patrols to protect workers and transporters. The committee also reviewed protocols for monitoring maritime health alerts after a crew member from a Singapore‑flagged vessel was suspected of hemorrhagic fever, prompting enhanced sanitary monitoring and communication with international maritime health bodies.