17-18 September 2026. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
The UNCTAD TrainForTrade Port Management Programme (PMP) supports port communities in developing countries in delivering more efficient and competitive port management in the future. In order to increase trade flows and foster economic development, the programme creates port networks bringing together public, private and international entities. The aim is to share knowledge and expertise between port operators and strengthen talent management and human resources development in port communities.
The PMP’s main objectives
- Strengthen institutional capacity and management efficiency of ports and related agencies.
- Promote port community participation and public-private partnerships.
- Enhance the competitiveness of ports and the quality of their services.
- Improve the environmental sustainability and social responsibility of ports.
The PMP provides technical assistance in various areas, including port planning, management and operations, logistics and supply chain management, port security, safety and environmental protection, and legal and regulatory frameworks. It also organizes training courses, workshops, and seminars, as well as conducts research and analysis on port-related issues.
Programme outline
As part of the activities of the Spanish-speaking network of the TrainForTrade Port Management Programme (PMP), the trainees of the 7th cycle of the port community of the Dominican Republic took part in the course on Modern Port Management (280 hours). The full cycle spanned a period of about two years, with each of the eight one-week modules delivered every two to three months.
At the end of the cycle, the trainees prepared business reports consisting of case studies concerning a real problem or opportunity in their port community and providing concrete and actionable recommendations. The group, composed of 24 middle managers (including 4 women), will present their case studies to a national and international jury, including representatives from UNCTAD, in order to obtain the UNCTAD/TrainForTrade Port Management Programme certificate. The certificate will be awarded to those who have completed the eight modules and successfully defend their case studies. In addition, those with the highest overall scores will receive a scholarship to take part in a study visit to Spanish ports in 2027.