More varied range of inbound cargo

Zambia’s drive to diversify its economy is beginning to reshape its freight market, with growth in agriculture, infrastructure, construction, manufacturing and retail creating demand for an increasingly varied range of inbound cargo. While mining remains the country’s dominant economic driver, demand is broadening to include irrigation systems, fertiliser, food-processing machinery, steel, electrical equipment, piping, industrial machinery and FMCG goods. “Zambia consistently stands out as one of Africa’s markets with tremendous growth potential,” said Natasha Lawrence-Ramiah, general manager at SACO Shipping South Africa. “Its strategic location, strong mining sector, growing agricultural industry and continued investment in infrastructure make it a key destination for businesses looking to expand across the region.” To strengthen its service on the Zambia trade lane, SACO has appointed a dedicated road freight controller with specialist knowledge of the corridor’s cross- border requirements, including border procedures, documentation and shipment coordination. The appointment forms part of the company’s broader investment in its Africa Gateway Team, which was launched earlier this year to improve the movement of cargo into African markets. “The objective was to make logistics into Africa easier, more transparent and better connected for our customers,” said Lawrence- Ramiah. “Since the launch, customers have benefited from quicker responses, improved communication, greater shipment visibility and closer coordination between our ocean freight and cross-border road freight teams.” She said this integrated approach provided continuous oversight of shipments from origin through to final delivery. “Having a specialist overseeing the corridor means our customers benefit from someone who understands the complexities of Zambia’s cross- border logistics – from border procedures and documentation to keeping shipments moving and customers informed every step of the way.” According to Lawrence- Ramiah, the Africa Gateway Team has been one of SACO’s biggest successes this year. Together with the company’s dedicated Zambia specialist, it supports the movement of both less-than-container-load (LCL) and full-container-load (FCL) cargo from the Port of Durban to destinations across Zambia. “As a neutral NVOCC, we are well positioned to support freight forwarders by connecting our ocean freight offering with cross-border road services,” she said. “Our teams manage the transition from the port through to the final destination, while providing customers with proactive communication and consistent shipment visibility.” Lawrence-Ramiah said logistics services would need to continue evolving in step with Africa’s growth. “Zambia is one of the region’s most promising markets and we are investing in the people, expertise and partnerships needed to support customers as they pursue opportunities in the country.” LV