Safmarine keeps an eye on Maputo potential

ALAN PEAT
SAFMARINE IS busy investigating the potential at the Port of Maputo in Mozambique, according to Johannesburg-based executive Keith Lee Shew.
Talking to the recent shipping forum facilitated by the Maputo Corridor Logistics Initiative (MCLI), Lee Shew said that Safmarine saw it as a niche port, and the company had been focusing on opportunities east of Maputo.
A weekly feeder service between Maputo and Port Louis was being considered, he said. “But this is subject to the co-operation of all parties working together to ensure sufficient volumes to make it viable.”
Shipping lines recognised that the Port of Durban could become problematic over time – and Safmarine and sister AP Moller group line, Maersk Sealand - were committed to working with MCLI to explore new opportunities.
“But, he added, “when considering new ports of call, any decisions taken need to make business sense.”
Stakeholders needed to share information – like volumes, landside costs, and transport cycles - so that sound business decisions can be made when considering strategy development for the shipping lines to call at the Port of Maputo.