Caldera Port, one of Costa Rica's key maritime gateways, is under immense pressure due to long-standing congestion issues.

The local online newspaper, La República, recently described the port's situation as "on the brink of collapse." The port has faced unresolved congestion for seven years, with recent reports highlighting significant structural and maintenance flaws.

Ricardo Ospina, General Manager of the Caldera Port Authority (SPC), emphasized the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and modernization to maintain port efficiency.

Reports indicate that the port's current yard occupancy rate has reached 90%, and at times, it even exceeds 100% capacity.

In mid-July, nearly 3,300 vehicles were located in designated container areas and green spaces. Caldera Port is typically considered congested when the occupancy rate exceeds 65%, and anything beyond that level is considered problematic.

Authorities have stressed the urgent need for expansion and improvement measures.

According to news agency El Observador, a government directive from the General Customs Directorate (DGA) has further exacerbated the situation by preventing pre-cleared containers from being transferred to temporary storage areas (ET).

This year, Sociedad Portuaria Caldera (SPC) plans to begin dredging operations to increase depth and accommodate larger vessels. However, progress has been delayed due to excessive silt buildup in the berths and operational areas.

As Costa Rica's main Pacific port, Caldera is a vital channel for the country's imports and exports, linking local industries with global markets.

Stakeholders stress that the port's continued operation and development are crucial for maintaining the nation's economic growth and global connectivity.