Not only about project cargo ...

WHILE BELUGA Shipping has carved a lucrative niche in the project and heavy lift cargo markets, the line’s 54-strong fleet is equally equipped to move bulk, general cargo, containers and hazardous cargoes, says Johannesburg-based Jean- Pierre du Toit. Du Toit heads up Beluga Maritime Projects Johannesburg which opened its doors in January this year. Having identified Africa and South Africa as growth markets, particularly in light of the upcoming 2010 Fifa World Cup, the company has already made major inroads into the bubbling potential. Some 60-80% of its export business is bound for the Mediterranean and north of Europe, says Du Toit. Building materials, steel products, mining equipment, generators, turbines and components for the Soccer World Cup are key items moving on its vessels. And while the new Johannesburg office is dedicated to developing traffic on the Southern African route, Beluga is also involved in tramp shipping, says Du Toit. “We go where there is a demand, and that includes the likes of Australia, Asia and South and North America.”