Norfolk-based shipping agency expands to South America

Published September 20, 2013 by Robert Powell, III

Norfolk-based shipping agency T. Parker Host Inc. has expanded into South America.

The company has established an office in Rodadero, Colombia,  in the country’s Santa Marta region, near Puerto Drummond and Puerto Nuevo. 

The Colombian operation, Host Colombia SAS, received its final required license from authorities on Sept. 17.

Host describes Colombia as a growth market.  The company, which focuses on coal and other dry bulk commodities, sees many opportunities for its vessel agency, cargo supervision and terminal operation divisions in Colombia.

The newly appointed general manager of the Colombian office is Eduardo Silva Ardila, who has experience in the mining industry, cargo supervision and trade development.  

The office currently has four agents, plus support staff.  James Bryant, a veteran agent at Host, has relocated to Colombia and is leading the training of the new team.

T. Parker Host has partnered in Colombia with Caribbsa, an agency and logistics provider since 1992.   Caribbsa will provide administrative and operational support to Host Colombia.

The Host group of companies has operations in 18 locations with 150 employees.