Far East backlog begins to normalise

THE TRADITIONAL festive season backlog of cargo from the Far East to South Africa appears to have been resolved, although backlogs at this time of year are an annual problem, says Safcor Panalpina’s airfreight director Henry Visser.
The lack of capacity affects not only South African-bound cargo, but European imports as well, with insufficient capacity an on-going problem.
The reduction of capacity by Singapore Airlines has exacerbated the local situation, which has however normalised since Safcor Panalpina reported a 350 tonne backlog at Hong Kong on November 21.
The company has further warned of possible disruptions during the Chinese new year which falls in the period 31 January - 3 February 2003. Clients placing orders that are required in February should therefore ensure that suppliers are instructed to despatch these
well in advance of the holiday period.