China’s Angola plans open up new shipping opportunities

JOY ORLEK CARGO VOLUMES between South Africa and the Far East are increasing by an average 15% across the board, according to Safmarine’s Africa region manager Alan Jones. While that varies from country to country, China is still undoubtedly top of the pile. “And China is now spreading into Angola where they have committed to invest in infrastructure, which opens up a range of new opportunities,” said Jones. While the volume flow has been a boon for shipping lines, the challenge lies in finding the right hub port, says Jones. A review of current transhipment hubs is under way. In terms of cargo mix, general cargo continues to dominate. “Automotive is still the biggest single commodity, and this includes CKD and parts.” Jones is cautiously optimistic about continued volume growth, but points out that the level of the rand will be the deciding factor. “At the moment it’s strong so the outlook is positive, particularly if it remains in the current band. People are buying cars like never before, which is good for us. But if the interest rate changes, imports could slow down, and within six months we’ll begin to see the impact on volumes.”