Dear Colleagues
This Friday is a perfect time to focus on the good news. From a Western Cape perspective, just take a look at the map and where we’re situated – that alone should bring a smile to your face.
Exporters Western Cape (EWC) hosted a most successful evening on Wednesday, with all accounts indicating the presenters and speakers were exceptionally well received. Of particular interest was the future of our city, set to be anchored by the proposed Skytrain – a development widely regarded as a potential game changer.
In view of EWC’s support and endorsement of this project, you will be hearing much more about it in the months ahead – and remember, we were the first to share this good news!
On the port side, there are once again several misconceptions doing the rounds, particularly that congestion is being driven by the Middle East crisis and vessels diverting around the Cape. The reality is that the majority of vessels are bypassing Cape Town and not calling at the port.
In previous years, vessels would call for bunkering due to the longer route and extended transit times. However, modern are better equipped for these longer journeys and are therefore increasingly bypassing such stops.
But, let us not forget that WE do provide a safe passage around the
Cape – once again reinforcing the Western Cape’s strategic position!
As of yesterday, there were no berthing delays, with only one vessel in the bay awaiting her berth!
In these challenging times, it is important that we remain guided by facts. There is already enough misinformation circulating.
Terminal statistics for the week 09 – 15 March are as follows:
• CTCT: 18 945 TEU handled (target of 12 192); 16 GCH (target of 19); 34.7 SWH (target of 40); 7-hour wind delay. On Saturday, 14 March, 4 352 TEU were handled. Stack occupancy at 40%, with 342 rail moves completed.
• CTMPT: 2 521 TEU handled (target of 1750); 12 GCH (target of 16); 16 SWH (target of 19); stack occupancy at 30%.
• FPT: Berth occupancy at 33%; 6 vessels handled – 2 multi cargo, 1 container, 2 dry bulk and 1 Layby. Throughput included 448 TEU, 15 918.09 tonnes of dry bulk; 852.72 tonnes of dry bulk direct operations; 376.83 tonnes of breakbulk general cargo; 930 pallets of fruit.
• Fruit: Year-to-date volumes at 37 670 FFE (+ 6% year-on-year from 24/25). Stone fruit season complete; grape season nearing completion; lemons and apples currently in season ahead of citrus, which ramps up from week 20.
• Black Swan: Cargo currently on the water is moving to India, Sri Lanka and Oman, with Jeddah-bonc containers being transshiped via Aleciras.
• Equipment CTCT: 8 of 9 STS cranes operations, 27 RTGs; 61 hauliers.
Sincerely, yours in exporting
Terry
