Bullish outlook for container volumes

Containerised cargo volumes moving in and out of the Port of Durban are expected to pick up for the remaining six months of 2009, says Roy Ramdiyal, Safmarine regional executive for Kwazulu Natal and Swaziland. “This prediction comes off a low base and total volumes for the year are unlikely to be ahead of 2008 volumes,” he told FTW. “This said, the mood is more buoyant as a result of the increased volumes experienced during the March to May 2009 period and we’re hoping the positive trend will continue.” He says the firming of rand against the US dollar, the decreasing lending rates and a perceived stabilisation of freight rate levels have contributed to a slow improvement in import volumes. Ramdiyal also believes the impact of ‘sub-economic’ rates on certain trade routes will have to be addressed if lines are to continue offering the capacity currently committed. Export-wise, he expects the commodity market – especially the heavy metals sector which has become active again – to grow. And reefer exports, which started slow, are steadily picking up. The current trade environment remains a challenging one for South African exporters and importers but Ramdiyal says all stakeholders in the logistics chain appear committed to adding value and reducing costs. “For example, port productivity has been improved which has decreased turn-around times. The staging area in the port has also added immense value as it has decreased port traffic during peak periods.” Safmarine has also enhanced its focus on customer service. According to Ramdiyal, the line’s National Call Centre operated from Durban is the only one of its kind for South African shippers wanting a single entry point for general information such as estimated vessel arrival/ departure times, vessel stack dates and the like. “The Call Centre is just one way we can add value because it allows us to service our customers ‘The Safmarine Way’ by giving them quick, easy access to knowledgeable, experienced Safmariners.” The Centre is managed by Melissa Sukdeo and Aarthi Mehta, and Ramdiyal says customer response to the Call Centre to date has been extremely positive and encouraging.