MIPS database will produce vital costing info

Tremendous opportunities for Spoornet ALAN PEAT THE LACK of reliable, regular, and cost-effective shipping at the Port of Maputo was one of the key issues addressed by the Maputo Corridor Logistics Initiative (MCLI) at a shipping workgroup recently. “Contrary to bulk and break-bulk shipping, where cargo owners can stockpile in the port and then charter a vessel to meet their requirements,” said MCLI CEO Brenda Horne, “the container industry needs a regular scheduled liner service. “This, in turn, requires a collective view and strategy of cargo owners, the rail operator, the terminal and willing shipping lines to work and commit together.” Jorge Ferraz, MCLI chairman and MD of Mozambique International Port Services (MIPS), was adamant that the 100 000 TEUs a year potential of the MIPS container terminal was there. And he is convinced that the challenges could be addressed through the MCLI focus workgroups, which should come up with a strategy between terminal, rail and road operators cargo owners and shipping lines. MIPS has invested US$12-million to date - an investment in terminals which is long-term, and with a commitment to continued investment as the need arises. In the on-going strategy to develop the port and the corridor, Jan Bekker, MIPS SA new business development manager, suggested that information-sharing was a vital element. He added that a database was being put together by MIPS/MCLI, and all stakeholders needed to be transparent and share their figures - current and potential volumes; landside costing; and inventory cycle days. This database could be tied in to MIPS’ extensive in-house expertise on road-rail costing options, and, in turn, information could be released to those needing assistance with costing and/or feasibility studies. Bekker added that Spoornet had tremendous opportunities on the Maputo Corridor, as most of the potential container business was heavy cargo - not ideal for transportation by road.