The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A $1.6 million customs broker and port agent opened in Grand Bahama on Saturday, employing 16 Bahamians.

Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Bahama, congratulated the owners of Fowlco Marine and Logistical Management company, Curtis Fowler, founder, and his wife, Glenette Fowler, managing director, on the 'soft opening' of their business. It will providing customs brokerage, port agency and husbandry, dry dock logistics and facilitation of special project services

"I wish to commend Fowlco because, in addition to these services, one of the company's major goals is to develop and facilitate a training model and institute that will allow Bahamians to engage in certified training and decrease the skills gap that currently exists in the industry," Mr Thompson said.

"This is an issue that the Government has prioritised as we seek to facilitate more technical training to ensure Bahamians are skilled, and are equipped to pursue long-term employment opportunities, especially considering several new businesses are slated to be birthed in GB this year and in the coming few years."

Mr Thompson said the company's launch showed rising investor confidence among Bahamians in Grand Bahama.

He added that other projects underway in Grand Bahama include Blue Marlin Cove, Seaward Fishing Village, the multi-million dollar expansion at Pharmachem and repair works at Statoil.

In East End, a new government housing subdivision, inclusive of new water infrastructure and a new cemetery, is underway.

Mr Thompson stated Grand Bahama is expecting a second new vessel, the Grand Classica in April, to bring overnight guests. It is operated by Bahamas Paradise Cruises, operators of the Grand Celebration.

In light manufacturing, Mr Thompson said Wind River Tobacco company had recently hired about 15 employees.

"We should soon see the opening of another light manufacturing company who has been approved, and property under contract and hiring employees," the minister added.

Mr Thompson also indicated there is high interest in medical tourism and education tourism, with a medical school seeking space, and a new technology company seeking property and looking to hire employees.