Red tape is cited as the cause of delays in the release of shipping containers from the port of Port of Spain to importers and manufacturers.
Minister of Finance, Colm Imbert, is being urged to bring an immediate solution to the growing crisis.
The concern comes from Member of Parliament from Mayaro, Rushton Paray.
MP Paray says the slow processing of containers could send up the cost of living.
Mr Paray says this has caused a major backlog, with many containers being held back by more than a week.
MP Paray explains the undue waiting interval is having a ripple effect, with hauliers and other service providers being adversely affected.
He says this unwarranted setback is taking place at a time when many businesses are struggling to stay afloat in the aftermath of the crippling Covid-19 shutdown.
MP Paray says he understand the Couva-Point Lisas Chamber of Commerce has written to the Comptroller of Customs on the issue, requesting that the matter be resolved in the quickest possible time.
Mr Paray says he support that urgent plea, and ask for the Minister’s prompt intervention adding failure to settle this matter expeditiously could lead to a further increase in the cost of living, with consumers having to absorb the costs of port storage and demurrage charges.
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