New service links FE with Southern and West Africa

The two lines in the AP Moller group, Maersk Line and Safmarine, are to start a new service, called the FEW3, from August 12 – linking the Far East with Southern and West Africa. The initial rotation is still subject to a variety of operational considerations, FTW was told, but is expected to be: Shanghai- Yantian-Nansha-Tanjung Pelepas-Durban-Pointe Noire-Tin Can Island- Durban–Shanghai.The number and size of vessels has yet to be determined. Safmarine Africa trade director Dirk Geens said that FEW 3 would allow the lines to offer additional space during the traditionally high volume peak months to SA exporters and importers trading with the Far East and intra-Africa. “The calls in Durban will also be used to offer additional space to the lines’ customers in the rest of southern Africa,” he added. “Not only will it significantly improve transit times to Pointe Noire (Congo) and Matadi (DRC) through the direct call to Pointe Noire, but it will also make a direct call at Tin Can Island in Nigeria.” A similar call at Tin Can Island on the two lines’ FEW1 service, which also connects the Far East and West Africa, will be phased out. This, according to Geens, will allow for more space on FEW1 for cargo destined for Lome (Togo) and Cotonou (Benin).