Import volumes surge ahead of World Cup

Stocking up for the World Cup has largely been responsible for substantially higher volumes in the first five months of 2010 compared to 2009, says Roy Ramdiyal, regional head of Safmarine in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Swaziland. “Soccer fever has definitely had a positive impact on our business with high volumes of cargo related to the event – such as clothing and memorabilia – coming into South Africa via the port of Durban.” The bulk of the cargo has been sourced from the Far East. Ian Barclay, Safmarine South Africa’s national imports manager, says while a portion of the increased volumes can also be attributed to the restocking of inventories by retailers and importers, cargo manifests are showing that much of the cargo is related to the Cup. “In addition to soccer memorabilia, Safmarine has also carried high volumes of electronics and items used for the refurbishment of hotels and bed and breakfast establishments. And, based on conversations with our customers, it even appears that ordinary South Africans are spending more on building and related materials as they upgrade their homes, not only to accommodate visitors, but to show the country off.” While volumes on the Safari (South Africa-Far East) trade traditionally drop off in the first quarter of the year, this year they have remained at ‘peak’ levels since October 2009, says Barclay.