While China remains the predominant market from the Far East, volumes from Thailand are also showing strong growth, with a number of South African-based motor vehicle manufacturers importing parts and accessories from Thailand. Electronics and white good manufacturers have also established plants in the country so that cargo is not totally CKD-focused, says Safmarine SA trade director, Alex de Bruyn. “Korea is also a growing market, underpinned by CKD, while Japan – despite its tsunami-related knock – is still a significant traditional market,” he said.
