Draught limitations continue to plague West Africa services

KEVIN MAYHEW TRADE WITH West Africa remains buoyant despite some factors – mainly relating to port infrastructure – which can sometimes hinder smooth operations, according to the general manger of CMA CGM Shipping Agencies SA, Pam Yerushalmy. CMA CGM – which in South Africa is a joint venture between CMA CGM, the French line, and the Grindrod Group - is still providing its service to West Africa every nine days, she said. “As with most African ports there are problems and in the case of West Africa, the ongoing port draught limitations, the refurbishment and renovations at Tema Port, and the general port congestion are the main concerns. On the whole though the region remains a buoyant one,” she said. The Gauteng-headquartered national agency imports mainly from Asia and exports to Africa’s west and east coasts, South America and various global ports of discharge. June sees the maiden call (CMA CGM Astrolabe) of the new SEAS Service in Durban. SEAS is a weekly service to South Africa from Asia and on to South America. CMA CGM has five vessels employed on this service which is further bolstered by the WAX service.