Retail sector growth attracts changing cargo mix

An increase in the volumes of project cargo originating from Mozambique and East African ports shows that global suppliers are increasingly using alternative routes to the traditional South African entry points, according to Alwyn Nel, managing director of Kingfisher Freight Services. The company has responded by ensuring that it has a presence at all the ports of entry being used by its clients. The bulk of Zambian imports is, however, still coming by road or air from South Africa. A change in the mix points to the growth of the retail sector in Zambia in response to the increase in consumer spending power and rise of the middle class. “Continued development in the banking and consumer markets has had a marked impact on the type of freight we are handling,” he says. Kingfisher provides clearing and forwarding, warehousing and storage, packing and a range of other services. Challenges which it helps clients meet in Zambia include delays at the border following the introduction of a new clearing system, and the resultant increase in logistics costs. Kingfisher assists “by ensuring that the f luidity of the supply chain is maintained despite the challenges being faced,” he says. This includes making sure that the correct documentation is submitted on time, and the constant monitoring of shipments in order to control costs. Despite the challenges, he believes there are still opportunities for South African importers and exporters in the Zambian market. “With the addition of new services and infrastructure business has increased, and Zambia remains both a profitable and viable market.” INSERT & CAPTION Global suppliers are increasingly using alternative routes to the traditional South African entry points. – Alwyn Nel