Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) last week handled two significant vessels carrying record citrus fruit exports out of South Africa. Three container terminals loaded 2099 forty foot equivalent unit (FEU) containers destined for Europe aboard vessel MSC AINO, with the largest consignment of 960 FEU containers loaded in Durban, 579 FEU containers in Ngqura, 534 FEU containers in Cape Town and 26 as transshipments.
MSC Head at Coega Marc Economou, Ngqura Container Terminal Senior Specialist Business Performance Siziwe Batyi, MSC Director of Operations in South Africa Captain Ian Rosario
TPT General Manager for Commercial and Planning Michelle van Buren Schele said, “It is the first time in the history of our operation that TPT has loaded over 2000 FEU citrus containers on a single vessel”. She added that the volumes were testament of the resilience of the South African citrus growers to deliver their product to key markets despite the challenges engulfing the industry. According to Van Buren Schele, the last record of citrus exports on a single vessel was 1665 FEU containers in January 2020.
TPT had also loaded a reputable 1911 FEU containers aboard vessel MSC Rayshmi with the largest consignment of 899 FEU containers loaded in Ngqura, 636 FEU containers in Durban and 376 FEU containers in Cape Town. This week the Maersk Santa Rosa had loaded 747 FEU containers alone at Pier 1, all destined for the European market.
South African citrus exports were 7% higher across all terminals combined when compared to prior year volumes mid-season. “The confidence that shipping lines are demonstrating by calling South Africa is encouraging and we are maximising our stack capacity, ensuring ample resources are available including increased terminal plug points for refrigerated containers” said Van Buren Schele.
The country’s peak citrus season is between April and September annually, where both Durban and the Eastern Cape move export volumes to over 100 countries mainly within the European Union (EU), Far East, and United States of America (USA).
For more information:
Mbali Mathenjwa
Tel: +27 (0) 83 279 2651
Email: Mbali.Mathenjwa@transnet.net
www.transnetportterminals.net