Expanded port capacity will support growth strategy

The world class infrastructure that the Port of Durban provides together with the commitment from Transnet to expand capacity and improve efficiency is a key driver of Cargocare’s plans for growth in the region. Currently engaged in a growth plan that will see the company control greater volumes of cargo traffic through Durban, the appointment of Aadil Hoosen in a business developmental role within Cargocare Durban is an important first step in reaching this goal. “The positioning of both the ports of Durban and Richards Bay is central to the development of the KZN economy. With the Port of Durban being the busiest in Africa and South Africa in turn seen as the gateway to Africa by many foreign investors, these two ports are central to the success of our strategy,” says Hoosen. A major challenge in Durban however remains capacity. “It is essential that Transnet keeps to its word, having cited plans to increase its capacity at the Durban Container Terminal over the next few years,” says Hoosen. “Although the recent global financial downturn saw a drop in container volumes, we have already seen strong signs of recovery with a significant increase in volumes. This trend is expected to continue with Africa being seen as a premier investment destination by the world.” Cargocare believes that the two KZN ports provide significant opportunity for economic growth. “Durban provides great opportunity for re-export opportunities while Richards Bay is the centre of South Africa’s aluminum industry and is also key to securing South Africa’s position as the second largest exporter of coal in the world. “With the expected increase in foreign direct investment in South Africa, cargo volumes handled by both Richards Bay and Durban are sure to increase,” says Hoosen. “The commitment from Transnet to further develop infrastructure and increase capacity will be a catalyst for this growth and we are positioning ourselves to take full advantage.”