Well-positioned for export of value-added goods into the region

Mauritius is well connected to the rest of the world through weekly services to all of the major import and export centres trading with the African continent, according to Percy Lamy, managing director of Consolidated African Freight Services Mauritius Limited (CAFS). The subsidiary of the CFR Group offers weekly direct export consolidations from Port Louis to all neighbouring Indian Ocean Islands including Seychelles, Madagascar, Reunion and Comoros (Mayotte). Established in 2011, the company is located half a kilometre outside the port area, with direct access to the harbour, the customs headquarters and container freight stations. “Since its inception, CAFS has positioned itself as a totally independent NVOCC operator,” says Lamy, who is confident about growth prospects for the island. It is well positioned for the export of manufactured and value-added goods into the region. “With Mauritius being a Southern African Development Community (SADC) signatory, there is a range of benefits and exemptions on duties and taxes, as well as available quotas,” he says. The exemptions are mainly related to textiles and garments but include other products such as pharmaceuticals where tangible value is added. Judging by the mix of freight being moved by CAFS, the demand lies in foodstuffs, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, spare parts, building materials, readymade garments and computer equipment. A growing tourism industry is driving demand for consumables. Consolidation services make an important contribution to the economy of Mauritius and the other Indian Ocean islands, says Lamy. “In a small economy like Mauritius, stock holding and management is a common challenge. “Due to the island’s geographical location, procurement is also a delicate balance between financial risks and just in time delivery. “Hence we always have to be on the move to review, modify and adapt our logistics to design new solutions to help the trade community and support their projects. “We are constantly evaluating plans for expansion of our facilities and extension of our services,” he says. Since opening in Mauritius CAFS has established a presence in Antananarivo and Tamatave (Toamasina) in Madagascar through CAFS Mada. “Direct consolidation services are already in place from Tamatave through Port Louis to global destinations via Durban and Singapore hubs,” says Lamy. INSERT & CAPTION There is a range of benefits and exemptions on duties and taxes, as well as available quotas. – Percy Lamy