Falklands: Chilean shipping line drives new link and promotes Expo with Islands and Punta Arenas products

The Chilean shipping company, Easter Island Naviera (EIN), is working to establish a regular commercial maritime link between the Falkland Islands and Chile, with a promotion of an Expo of Islands and Chilean products in Punta Arenas. This initiative was presented to the Falkland Islands last July by EIN representatives. Liam Short, from the Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce, noted that EIN took the initiative, which is unusual for the Falklands, as they often face delays and obstacles in their trade delegations.

EIN has been proactive in addressing any issues that may arise and has proposed a delegation of twenty or more people for the Expo scheduled for late September in Punta Arenas. The Chilean shipping company supports commercial activity and acts as a connecting thread for all parties involved. Short emphasized that the Falkland Islands Development Corporation (FIDC) has been working with the local business community to generate local interest and fill the ship for the first crossing.

Despite initial doubts about the ship's capacity, interest from the private sector has been "incredible," making it likely that the ship will be filled in both directions. FIDC has praised the mayor of Punta Arenas for his support in clearing political hurdles. The Expo in Punta Arenas will feature Falklands products and Chilean goods of interest to the Islands, with 30 to 40 Chilean companies expected to participate. FIDC has organized a delegation of more than twenty Falklands companies and businesspeople to attend.

Those interested in attending the Expo are advised to register with FIDC before booking travel and accommodation. An FIDC support team will be present during the Expo, which is planned for September 26-29. The first sailing is estimated for November, with EIN's capacity to store merchandise for 20 to 25 days before loading. Short emphasized that the proposed link is not expected to compete with the South American Sea Link (SAAS), as it aims to expand opportunities in the Falklands while building resilience.

The development of the oil industry will also create additional pressure for a logistics capacity to respond to that new industry without other community activities losing capacity.