SAJ joins business community in mourning the loss of Lazarus Bucknor

THE SHIPPING Association of Jamaica (SAJ) joins the wider business community in mourning the loss of Lazarus Bucknor, a director of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) and chairman of the chamber’s Customs, Tariffs and Port Users Committee. He passed away on May 20.

A longtime advocate for trade and economic development in Jamaica, Bucknor was a passionate champion for the private sector and the nation. He was widely respected for his collaborative, solutions-oriented approach and unwavering commitment to improving Jamaica’s trade and logistics landscape.

Corah-Ann Robertson-Sylvester, president of the SAJ, recalled: “Mr Bucknor was always bold in expressing his views and deeply engaged on all matters affecting the industry. He was an important face of the JCC, particularly in the area he worked in. He had great historical knowledge of the logistics industry, long before the word ‘logistics’ became a popular term. He will be greatly missed.”

Neil Smith, deputy chair of the SAJ’s Agents’ Committee, shared: “He was a passionate advocate for the private sector. His clarity, pragmatism, and collaborative spirit inspired those around him. Even in later years, he remained active and committed to strengthening Jamaica’s trade and shipping sector.”

Denise Lyn Fatt, past president of the SAJ, reflected: “I recall the annual Customs seminars near the Christmas peak season when he would bring together port and warehouse operators, customs, customs brokers, and importers to ensure as smooth and seamless a process as possible for our mutual customers to receive their shipments. He was never shy about asking difficult questions or stating when he disagreed, always seeking to assist in finding solutions.”

The SAJ extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lazarus Bucknor. His years of dedicated service have left an indelible mark on Jamaica’s trade and logistics sector, and his leadership and advocacy will long be remembered.