Under a USTDA grant to the National Ports Law Project of Nicaragua’s Port Authority, Nathan Associates has recommended port policy reforms appropriate to Nicaragua; reviewed how Nicaragua is encouraging private investment in the public sector; helped the government articulate reform goals and develop a framework and regulations to meet those goals; recommended adjustments in the port authority’s responsibilities that reflect policy reform, improved competitiveness, and increased private sector investment and participation in the port sector; and drafted documents for tendering of port projects.

Nicaragua is expected to enact a new ports law reflecting recommended reforms in 2009.