WILLEMSTAD - A shipment of fireworks destined for Curaçao has been delayed, but local sellers assure consumers that the shortage will have minimal impact on their year-end celebrations. The delay stems from logistical challenges in Jamaica’s overcrowded ports, according to multiple fireworks vendors on the island.
Delays Impact Entire Region
The fireworks shortage was first anticipated in October and affects not only Curaçao but also Aruba and Bonaire. The main issue lies in the port of Jamaica, where large container ships from China, which traditionally dock in Venezuela, are rerouting to avoid that country.
“Jamaica’s port has reached its maximum capacity, causing delays,” said Sabir Attaf of Alivio Fireworks. The containers carrying fireworks are now expected to arrive in January, a timing that Attaf finds impractical. “No one is going to buy fireworks in January to use them much later,” he remarked earlier this year.
Workarounds
Despite the setbacks, Attaf revealed that his company has managed to bring in a limited supply of fireworks through alternative shipping routes. “Consumers shouldn’t notice the shortage,” he said, emphasizing that no leftover stock from previous years is being sold to fill the gap.
Other major fireworks vendors, such as Goon Lee, were unavailable for comment. However, industry insiders report that all sellers across Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire are struggling with the same logistical challenges.
Professional Shows Unaffected
Professional fireworks shows and traditional pagara firecrackers remain largely unaffected by the delays. Geraldine Bethencourt, owner of Heroudini Fireworks, confirmed that their events would proceed as planned.
“Heroudini operates year-round and is less reliant on end-of-year shipments,” Bethencourt explained, ensuring that major displays across the island will still light up the skies as scheduled.
While the logistics hiccup has posed challenges for vendors, residents can still look forward to a festive New Year’s celebration, complete with fireworks.