The potential impact of structural changes at regional level by the South African Association of Freight Forwarders (Saaff) is being closely monitored by the organisation representing port users in Cape Town – Exporters Western Cape (EWC).
Commenting on Saaff’s head office decision to close the Executive Committees of regional branches, chairperson Terry Gale says: “EWC is concerned that any disruption to these established engagement mechanisms could impact exporters’ ability to address operational challenges efficiently.
“Maintaining effective communication channels between industry participants, logistics providers and regional authorities remains essential to ensuring continuity, responsiveness and service delivery.”
Gale says it’s important to acknowledge the role Saaff plays in supporting South Africa’s freight and logistics ecosystem.
“The association’s effectiveness is critical to ensuring that exporters are able to move goods efficiently through the country’s ports and border posts.”
The association’s hands-on efficacy on the ground and its immediate responses when urgency is of the essence, should remain a hallmark by which Saaff intervenes on behalf of its members, Gale says.
“Regional structures have historically played an important role in maintaining close working relationships with port authorities, customs officials and other key stakeholders on the ground.
“These relationships are essential in resolving operational challenges quickly and ensuring continuity in cargo flows.
“We look forward to engaging constructively with Saaff and other industry partners as these changes unfold,” says Gale.
“It is important that the evolving structure continues to support strong industry representation and remains responsive to the practical needs of exporters.”
