SOUTH AFRICA’S automotive industry is headed for significant growth over the next three years, says Safmarine’s automotive account manager, Dave Kirkman. This as the local industry takes advantage of new markets, the Agoa agreement, reduced import duties, increased shipping capacity and improved shipping services. And according to Kirkman, trade growth between Asia and South Africa has been particularly strong and is expected to grow further into 2007/2008. “Automotive cargo is currently the biggest single import commodity on the Far East – South Africa trade, and includes CKD and parts. This cargo is likely to remain the top commodity on this trade as several automotive companies move their operations from Europe to Eastern Europe and the Far East,” says Kirkman. He believes Naamsa’s vision for the SA auto industry – to produce one million fully built up units by the year 2010 – is achievable. But just how many of these units are exported will depend on the support the auto industry receives from the transport and logistics industry. “A reliable shipping schedule providing adequate capacity is key to the local OEMs’ (original equipment manufacturers) ability to grow their export business and meet increased production targets,” he says. Safmarine’s main focus will be on ensuring that all cargo shipped for OEMs and their suppliers remains on time, week after week, says Kirkman. “Safmarine’s second string services on the Safari (Far East – South Africa) and SAECS (Europe-South Africa) trades are primarily designed to provide this reliability.”
