TPT responds to tariff hike objections

Transnet Ports Terminals’

(TPT) response to

industry objections

regarding its tariff hike

of 9% – announced last

week – arrived too late for

publication with the article

headlined “TPT hikes

tariffs” (FTW March 11,

2016).

“In line with annual

tariff adjustments TPT

will, effective April 1,

increase its cargo handling

tariffs for container

handling at levels

commensurate with its

continued capex funding

requirements as well as to

accommodate operating cost

increases as a result of the

consumer price index (CPI),

increased energy costs, etc,”

a spokesman said.

“The increases

comprise a blended mix of

adjustments which in part

are volume-driven yet also

aimed at minimising the

impact on non-recoverable

parts of its service

offerings. TPT has recently

invested extensively in

new container handling

quayside and landside

cranes and ancillary

equipment and will

continue to do so to ensure

that SA ports can continue

to boast best-in-class

terminals and facilities.

“While cognisant of

the prevailing market

and trade conditions,

TPT remains committed

to the Transnet market

demand strategy (MDS),

whose objectives include

a counter-cyclical

investment strategy

aimed at creating and

providing capacity ahead of

demand, promoting skills

development, providing

world class infrastructure

and technology, and

improving global and

regional maritime

connectivity, amongst

others."