Alan Jones…‘South Africa could be achieving more than the Government-desired 6% growth.’ JOY ORLEK THE BENEFITS of recent adjustments to Safmarine’s Far East service are beginning to filter through, according to Africa region executive, Alan Jones. In April the line reduced the number of ports on its schedule to speed up transit time, at the same time introducing an additional direct call at Yantian, in mainland China. “It takes a few months to take effect and we’re now enjoying the rewards,” he told FTW. Cargo to and from smaller ports is trans-shipped at Tanjung Pelepas or Kaohsiung. “This makes a lot more sense than trying to call at 10-12 ports.” Combined with the increased capacity provided by the redeployment of the ‘Big Whites’ from the line’s Europe service, Safmarine is geared for this growing market. Along with the Indian subcontinent, it’s a major focus. China is anticipating growth in the region of 9% and India 7.5%, says Jones, who believes that South Africa could be achieving more than the Government-desired 6% growth provided ongoing infrastructural investments are made. The exchange rate tends to dominate discussions on barriers to South Africa’s trade growth, but limited infrastructure will be the greatest impediment, in his view. “In 2015 Gauteng is expected to double its current size, which will make infrastructure even more vital then ever before.” And while wage levels clearly play a role in the global competitiveness index, infrastructure is as important if South Africa is to take its rightful place on the world stage.
