Venezuelan port and logistics sector disruptions

Venezuelan logistics and customs sectors have faced significant disruptions following earthquakes on June 24, which caused a collapse at the Port of La Guaira. This disaster forced a massive diversion of cargo to Puerto Cabello, which has been operating at double its usual capacity while struggling with container accumulation, machinery shortages, and electricity failures in Carabobo state.

As of late August, operations at La Guaira have resumed following repairs to port cranes and the end of a contingency period. While vessels can now dock at La Guaira following an announcement by Seniat, officials note that achieving full operational normality will take time.

Despite the resumption of activities, the sector faces long-term challenges. Gretsy Marín, president of the Association of Freight and Customs Agencies of Venezuela (Asocav), has noted a sharp decline in the number of customs agents over the last decade and has called for the modernization of customs laws. Import growth for 2026 is projected to remain low, potentially under 2%, unless trade dynamizes during the final months of the year as importers prepare for the December holiday season.