Transporter moves into Moz market

Breaking ground in new markets such as Mozambique is not easy but it’s crucial for operators who are looking to grow their business regionally. According to Anthony Lee, managing director of Botswanaheadquartered Transport Holdings, they have been operational in Mozambique for just over a year – and while it is still slow going they are determined to make a success of the venture. “We are not seeing a lot of volumes as yet, but we are also moving slowly as our intention is to ensure a longterm presence in the country. We are taking the time to do our research and to get to know the market and the clients and be in a position to deliver the service required.” He said mining in Mozambique had taken a knock with the drop in the coal price but gas finds were good news for operators in the country. “We are very positive about the Mozambican opportunities and are pursuing several avenues – including consolidations to the country from Johannesburg and other areas,” he said. “Competition is stiff and it is not easy taking on local and other international competitors but we believe that we have what it takes to be successful in this market and that we can offer our clients something different.” He said dealing with the seasonality of some of the commodities in Mozambique – such as tobacco and wheat – posed some challenge in ensuring viability during the off-peaks but as growth continued and exports and imports increased the situation would improve. “It is still very early days for us in terms of our presence in Mozambique, but we are happy with the progress we have made and with what we have achieved thus far,” he said. CAPTION Transport Holdings … growing business regionally.