MSC creates Mobile Game to raise awareness on sustainability in Shipping

GENEVA: MSC is pleased to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind shipping game: The Sea Rider, said a recent release from the company.

Available on the Apple Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android) for everybody, the game provides fun, engaging entertainment for the users, who can navigate a giant container ship, collect coins and gather points.

While featuring MSC’s green fleet including some of the World’s Largest Container Ships and the actual MSC Global Network of some 200 ocean services worldwide, the game also provides insights into MSC’s environmental performance and sustainability approach.

Users will not only learn about some of the company’s activities around preserving the environment, but practically they will have to sling the ship from one port to another while minimising the environmental impact. This might include adapting the vessel speed, or avoiding whales.

Conducting shipping operations in a sustainable, ethical way MSC is a responsible company with a longstanding nautical heritage and passion for the sea. As an active member of the United Nations Global Compact, and supporter of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, MSC is pleased to introduce The Sea Rider game as a way to raise awareness on the importance 

of conducting container shipping operations in a sustainable way.

Recently, the company published its 2018 MSC’s Sustainability Report highlighting some key achievements from various companies in the MSC Group. To download a copy, please go to msc.com/sustainability.

FreightBro becomes the first Indian Logistics Startup to join Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg

MUMBAI: FreightBro, India’s first freight forwarder facing digital platform that digitizes operations for Freight Forwarders, became the first Indian startup to join the Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg in an exclusive event titled ‘Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg Roadshow - An Indo-German Logistics Startups Connect.’ Organised by FreightBro, the event focused on the importance and the success of building a digital logistics ecosystem in Germany and the potential of replicating similar ecosystem based models in India.

 

Johannes Berg, Managing Director, Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg, was of the opinion that, “There is immense potential for partnership and expansion opportunities for Indian startups in Germany. We have collaborated with an Indian startup for the first time and introduced FreightBro to one of our hub partners, DAKOSY who are keen on working on Indo-German synergies. We eagerly look forward to further connect Indian startups to hub partners in Germany and connect German startups with the Indian market. We are grateful to FreightBro for organizing a unique event for us in India and enable us to connect with startups which has been immensely satisfying.”

 

Mohammed Zakkiria A, Co-Founder, FreightBro, said, “Joining hands with Digital Hub is a strategically sound decision for us  and is the perfect platform for us to connect with the right partners in Germany and plan future expansion in the European market.” After the recently established partnership with Port of Wilhelmshaven, this collaboration with Digital Hub Logistics, Hamburg comes as a significant step ahead in strengthening FreightBro’s Indo-German ties and establishing a footprint in the European logistics hub, said a release.

Threat to growth in Global Container Port throughput at highest level ever says a report

LONDON: Container terminal operators are facing higher risks than at any time in the industry’s history, according to a new report.

And Container Terminals: Paths to Profitability suggests future investment by operators and investors will need to be more carefully considered than ever before.

The report by industry veterans Remco Stenvert and Andrew Penfold says many of the risks the industry faces are “beyond the control of operators”.

“The container port and terminal business faces greater uncertainties now than at any time since the container revolution started in the late 1970s,” it says.

 

“These represent systemic and intrinsic risks that could dramatically impact the outlook for port demand, profitability and investment in the next 10 years. “All investments need to take a clear view on these risks, the days when expanding container demand could be relied upon to save marginal projects have passed,” the authors write.

 

The study outlines a range of external factors – the retreat of globalisation in the face of rising protectionism; the growing financial instability since 2009, with most growth since the financial crisis funded by mounting levels of debt; a structural change in the nature of demand with many developed economies now effectively reaching peak container throughput; the challenge of near-sourcing strategies; the technological challenges posed by blockchain and 3D printing; and mounting environmental – that port operators have no control over, but yet need to take into account when planning new projects.

 

But there is also a long list of factors internal to the shipping and terminal industry with which many are already acquainted – shipping overcapacity and under-utilisation; alliance instability, which increases in terms of risk as volume growth slows; shipping line terminal investment, which is increasingly in the minds of terminal operators independent of carrier involvement; the pressure of ever large vessel sizes; terminal overcapacity in some regions; and finally the potential for the industry to be disrupted by new operators altogether.

Drewry: Shipping Container prices drop in challenging market October 25 , 2019

LONDON: Prices for new and second hand shipping containers as well as lease rates fell in the third quarter of 2019 as factory stocks continued to build up and prospects for container shipping cooled, according to shipping consultancy Drewry.

Container shipping remains challenged by rising geopolitical uncertainty and a slowdown in the global economy. In response, Drewry recently cut its forecast for global container port throughput in 2019 from 3% to 2.6%. Add to this the growing number of boxes stockpiled in depots around China, estimated to be over one million TEU, and “it’s no surprise that the container manufacturing and leasing sectors posted disappointing results” in the quarter.

Dry box prices fell 5.5% over the quarter while reefer values remained stable. Drewry’s Dry Shipping Container Newbuild Price Index, which tracks values of new 40ft high cube containers, dropped four points in the quarter to a value of 82, representing an annual decline of 20%.

But the reefer price index, based on the prevailing value of new 40ft high cube reefer containers was unchanged at 89, having declined just 3% over the year. However, container resale prices remained broadly stable.

For the second quarter in succession transport operators purchased more reefers than lessors with Ocean Network Express and Hapag-Lloyd among those carriers taking delivery of a substantial amount of new equipment. Both lines are expanding their reefer services and needed the additional boxes to satisfy expected demand in the fourth quarter of 2019 and early 2020.

However, over the medium term Drewry still expects lessors to increase their share of the global container pool as shipping lines’ priorities lie elsewhere, notably in upgrading their IT systems and door-to-door service offering.

“A glut of newbuild dry box containers and falling values forced manufacturers to slash output which fell over 50% in the quarter, although reefer production remained stable,” Drewry said, adding that total shipping container production “will end the year having fallen 36% compared to 2018.”

India & Bangladesh stakeholders stress on Port Connectivity

GUWAHATI: Water resources management and port connectivity are critical in boosting commercial relationship between India and Bangladesh, stakeholders of the two countries asserted recently.

 

India and Bangladesh share a total of 54 rivers and historically, the two countries have shared riverine routes for trade, commerce and movement of people, speakers said at a session over ‘Port Use Agreements’ held on the concluding day of the India Bangladesh Stakeholders’ Meet here. The session was jointly coordinated by Bangladesh Ministry of Shipping Secretary Md Abdus Samad and Inland Waterways Authority of India Chairperson Dr Amita Prasad.

 

In recent times, India and its neighbours have realised the immense potential of rivers as trade-transport- connectivity routes, both within and across borders. Recent developments and policy thrust of the countries in the region show emphasis on re-harnessing that connectivity and enhancing trade contacts, the speakers said.

 

Coordinators of both the countries pointed out the developments in terms of maritime, coastal and inland waterways connecting the region, and said some of these relate to neighbouring Nepal and Bhutan as well. Prasad said the Indian Government has been putting increasing emphasis on better management and governance of water resources for trade, transport, tourism, domestic and industrial purposes.

As many as 106 new national waterways were declared in 2016 in addition to the five that already existed, she added.

Kolkata & Bengaluru to be included in World Bank's Doing Business report

NEW DELHI: The World Bank will now include Kolkata and Bengaluru, besides Delhi and Mumbai, for preparing Ease of Doing Business report to provide a holistic picture of business environment of the Country, an official has said.

 

"The Country of the size of India was not properly represented by just two cities, and now with the inclusion of Kolkata and Bengaluru, Indian ranking in the World Bank's report will present a much better picture," the official said.

 

The report ranks 190 nations based on ten parameters, which includes ease of starting a business, construction permits, getting electricity, getting credit, paying taxes, trade across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency.

The official added that the exercise to include these two new cities has already been initiated and would be included in the World Bank's ranking in the years to come.

DP World reports 1.1% gross like-for-like volume growth in 3Q 2019

DUBAI: DP World PLC handled 17.7 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of container terminals in 3Q2019, with gross container volumes growing by 1.1 % year-on-year on a like-for-like basis. On a nine-month basis, like-for-like gross container volumes grew by +0.7% year-on-a year to 53.5 million TEU.

 

Jebel Ali (UAE) handled 3.6 million TEU in 3Q2019, down -1.0% year-on-year, as volumes stabilised following a shift of low-margin cargo. Growth in Asia and India remains robust with strong growth in ATI (Philippines), Qingdao (China). Growth in India has been driven by Cochin, Mundra and NSIGT (Mumbai). Decline in reported volumes in Asia Pacific & Indian Subcontinent is due to discontinued operations in Surabaya (Indonesia) and Tianjin (China).

 

At a consolidated level, our terminals handled 10.3 million TEU during 3Q 2019, a +0.8% improvement year-on-year on a like-for-like basis. The strong reported growth of +93.7% in Americas and Australia region is due to the consolidation of Australia and acquisition of the two terminals in Chile.

 

Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem commented: “Our portfolio continues to deliver a steady volume performance which is encouraging given the challenging macro backdrop caused by the global trade dispute. However, despite this uncertainty, it is encouraging to see robust growth in key markets such as Asia Pacific and Indian Subcontinent, while growth in west coast of Americas remains solid. In Europe, London Gateway continues to deliver strong growth due to market share gains. While we have seen volumes stabilising in Jebel Ali (UAE), the outlook remains uncertain given the regional geopolitics and we remain focused on profitable origin & destination cargo.’’

 

“On our broader portfolio, we continue to make progress in strengthening our product offering, allowing us to connect directly with end customers to deliver a range of unique logistic solutions. We are seeing positive signs of progress in our new businesses that give us encouragement for the future. The near-term focus is on integrating our recent acquisitions, managing costs and disciplined investment to cement DP Worlds position as the logistics partner of choice. Overall, we remain well placed to deliver full year market expectations.’’

KICT honoured as Fastest Growing Terminal in 2018-19

GANDHIDHAM: Kandla International Container Terminal (KICT) has received an award in the ‘Fastest Growing Terminal’ category for 2018-19 at the 33rd Deendayal Port Trust (DPT) Awards held on October 5, 2019 at the Gandhidham Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Gujarat. On behalf of KICT and the J. M. Baxi Group, the award was received by Mr Amardeep Singh Parmar, Terminal Head of KICT from Mr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers, informed a release. 

 

A total of 43 port users were recognised and awarded for their contribution towards making Deendayal Port the numero uno Major Port for the 

12th consecutive year by handling 115.40 million tonnes of cargo during 2018-19.

 

Along with Mr Mansukh Mandaviya, others who graced the occasion were DPT Chairman, Mr Sanjay Mehta, IFS; Director, Ministry of Shipping, 

Mr Arvind Chaudhary, MP; Mr Vinod Chawda, MLA; Ms Maltiben Maheshwari; Mr Vasanbhai Ahir; Gandhidham Municipality President, 

Mr Kanjibhai Bharya; Kandla Timber Association Head, Mr Navnit R. Gajjar, and other leading members of the trade, the release added.

Höegh Autoliners transport critical Breakbulk cargo from Mumbai to Ghana

MUMBAI: When critical equipment needed to be transported urgently from Mumbai for an infrastructure project in Ghana, OM Freight Forwarders chose Höegh Autoliners’ unbeatable direct liner service and experience in transporting breakbulk cargo. Recently Höegh Autoliners India was presented an opportunity to transport equipment and track laying machines that would be used in the development of a rail network from Tema to Akosomba. 

 

The challenge posed was that the customer needed one hundred sensitive breakbulk units to be shipped urgently for a project deadline.

 

Unbeatable liner service

With the customer’s strict time constraints, Höegh Autoliners’ regular and direct liner service from India to Africa offered the most competitive transit time in the market. In addition, with a fixed departure time, it meant the customer could plan and prepare their cargo for transportation in advance.

Capt. Atuldutt Sharma of Höegh Autoliners India says; With the equipment being an essential part of the project, the customer could not afford any delays. Höegh’s India to Africa service offered the best possible transit time of 25 days from Mumbai to Tema, which ensured the customer keep to their tight deadline. 

 

Dependable equipment

Transporting sensitive equipment like this is a precise operational process that requires experienced personnel and dependable equipment. 

The cargo handling team were put to the test, when the shipment consisting of 100 breakbulk pieces of varying sizes and shapes, needed to be transported on the same vessel. Using Höegh’s diverse fleet of rolltrailers, the team devised a plan to strategically place the 100 breakbulk units on 15 select rolltrailers. This ensured all units fit inside the vessel, and would reach the destination in time for the project

Mr. Vishal Joshi, OM Freight Forwarders says; We were extremely pleased with Höegh’s professional team that provided a customised solution for our shipment. With the competitive transit time offered, and equipment provided on such short notice, Höegh ensured our critical cargo reached its destination on time.

 

Safer with RoRo

By rolling the cargo on and off the vessel, it eliminates the need for crane lifts in both load and discharge port. This reducing the risk of damage to the cargo and ensures a safer operation.  Once inside the vessel, the rolltrailers are secured to designated lashing points underdeck, safeguarding the sensitive equipment from humidity or seawater.

 

Atuldutt continues; Keeping to the customer’s deadline, the cargo was safely transported on board Höegh Amsterdam ready for its journey to Tema. These types of breakbulk shipments demonstrate how our dedicated Breakbulk Team around the world, in their quest for excellence offer our customers timely, reliable, safe, professional and cost effective services, said a company release.

 

MSC creates Mobile Game to raise awareness on sustainability in Shipping

GENEVA: MSC is pleased to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind shipping game: The Sea Rider, said a recent release from the company.

Available on the Apple Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android) for everybody, the game provides fun, engaging entertainment for the users, who can navigate a giant container ship, collect coins and gather points.

While featuring MSC’s green fleet including some of the World’s Largest Container Ships and the actual MSC Global Network of some 200 ocean services worldwide, the game also provides insights into MSC’s environmental performance and sustainability approach.

Users will not only learn about some of the company’s activities around preserving the environment, but practically they will have to sling the ship from one port to another while minimising the environmental impact. This might include adapting the vessel speed, or avoiding whales.

Conducting shipping operations in a sustainable, ethical way MSC is a responsible company with a longstanding nautical heritage and passion for the sea. As an active member of the United Nations Global Compact, and supporter of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, MSC is pleased to introduce The Sea Rider game as a way to raise awareness on the importance 

of conducting container shipping operations in a sustainable way.

Recently, the company published its 2018 MSC’s Sustainability Report highlighting some key achievements from various companies in the MSC Group. To download a copy, please go to msc.com/sustainability.

 

FreightBro becomes the first Indian Logistics Startup to join Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg

MUMBAI: FreightBro, India’s first freight forwarder facing digital platform that digitizes operations for Freight Forwarders, became the first Indian startup to join the Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg in an exclusive event titled ‘Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg Roadshow - An Indo-German Logistics Startups Connect.’ Organised by FreightBro, the event focused on the importance and the success of building a digital logistics ecosystem in Germany and the potential of replicating similar ecosystem based models in India.

 

Johannes Berg, Managing Director, Digital Hub Logistics Hamburg, was of the opinion that, “There is immense potential for partnership and expansion opportunities for Indian startups in Germany. We have collaborated with an Indian startup for the first time and introduced FreightBro to one of our hub partners, DAKOSY who are keen on working on Indo-German synergies. We eagerly look forward to further connect Indian startups to hub partners in Germany and connect German startups with the Indian market. We are grateful to FreightBro for organizing a unique event for us in India and enable us to connect with startups which has been immensely satisfying.”

 

Mohammed Zakkiria A, Co-Founder, FreightBro, said, “Joining hands with Digital Hub is a strategically sound decision for us  and is the perfect platform for us to connect with the right partners in Germany and plan future expansion in the European market.” After the recently established partnership with Port of Wilhelmshaven, this collaboration with Digital Hub Logistics, Hamburg comes as a significant step ahead in strengthening FreightBro’s Indo-German ties and establishing a footprint in the European logistics hub, said a release.

Threat to growth in Global Container Port throughput at highest level ever says a report

LONDON: Container terminal operators are facing higher risks than at any time in the industry’s history, according to a new report.

And Container Terminals: Paths to Profitability suggests future investment by operators and investors will need to be more carefully considered than ever before.

The report by industry veterans Remco Stenvert and Andrew Penfold says many of the risks the industry faces are “beyond the control of operators”.

“The container port and terminal business faces greater uncertainties now than at any time since the container revolution started in the late 1970s,” it says.

 

“These represent systemic and intrinsic risks that could dramatically impact the outlook for port demand, profitability and investment in the next 10 years. “All investments need to take a clear view on these risks, the days when expanding container demand could be relied upon to save marginal projects have passed,” the authors write.

 

The study outlines a range of external factors – the retreat of globalisation in the face of rising protectionism; the growing financial instability since 2009, with most growth since the financial crisis funded by mounting levels of debt; a structural change in the nature of demand with many developed economies now effectively reaching peak container throughput; the challenge of near-sourcing strategies; the technological challenges posed by blockchain and 3D printing; and mounting environmental – that port operators have no control over, but yet need to take into account when planning new projects.

 

But there is also a long list of factors internal to the shipping and terminal industry with which many are already acquainted – shipping overcapacity and under-utilisation; alliance instability, which increases in terms of risk as volume growth slows; shipping line terminal investment, which is increasingly in the minds of terminal operators independent of carrier involvement; the pressure of ever large vessel sizes; terminal overcapacity in some regions; and finally the potential for the industry to be disrupted by new operators altogether.

Drewry: Shipping Container prices drop in challenging market October 25 , 2019

LONDON: Prices for new and second hand shipping containers as well as lease rates fell in the third quarter of 2019 as factory stocks continued to build up and prospects for container shipping cooled, according to shipping consultancy Drewry.

Container shipping remains challenged by rising geopolitical uncertainty and a slowdown in the global economy. In response, Drewry recently cut its forecast for global container port throughput in 2019 from 3% to 2.6%. Add to this the growing number of boxes stockpiled in depots around China, estimated to be over one million TEU, and “it’s no surprise that the container manufacturing and leasing sectors posted disappointing results” in the quarter.

Dry box prices fell 5.5% over the quarter while reefer values remained stable. Drewry’s Dry Shipping Container Newbuild Price Index, which tracks values of new 40ft high cube containers, dropped four points in the quarter to a value of 82, representing an annual decline of 20%.

But the reefer price index, based on the prevailing value of new 40ft high cube reefer containers was unchanged at 89, having declined just 3% over the year. However, container resale prices remained broadly stable.

For the second quarter in succession transport operators purchased more reefers than lessors with Ocean Network Express and Hapag-Lloyd among those carriers taking delivery of a substantial amount of new equipment. Both lines are expanding their reefer services and needed the additional boxes to satisfy expected demand in the fourth quarter of 2019 and early 2020.

However, over the medium term Drewry still expects lessors to increase their share of the global container pool as shipping lines’ priorities lie elsewhere, notably in upgrading their IT systems and door-to-door service offering.

“A glut of newbuild dry box containers and falling values forced manufacturers to slash output which fell over 50% in the quarter, although reefer production remained stable,” Drewry said, adding that total shipping container production “will end the year having fallen 36% compared to 2018.”

ndia & Bangladesh stakeholders stress on Port Connectivity October 25 , 2019

GUWAHATI: Water resources management and port connectivity are critical in boosting commercial relationship between India and Bangladesh, stakeholders of the two countries asserted recently.

 

India and Bangladesh share a total of 54 rivers and historically, the two countries have shared riverine routes for trade, commerce and movement of people, speakers said at a session over ‘Port Use Agreements’ held on the concluding day of the India Bangladesh Stakeholders’ Meet here. The session was jointly coordinated by Bangladesh Ministry of Shipping Secretary Md Abdus Samad and Inland Waterways Authority of India Chairperson Dr Amita Prasad.

 

In recent times, India and its neighbours have realised the immense potential of rivers as trade-transport- connectivity routes, both within and across borders. Recent developments and policy thrust of the countries in the region show emphasis on re-harnessing that connectivity and enhancing trade contacts, the speakers said.

 

Coordinators of both the countries pointed out the developments in terms of maritime, coastal and inland waterways connecting the region, and said some of these relate to neighbouring Nepal and Bhutan as well. Prasad said the Indian Government has been putting increasing emphasis on better management and governance of water resources for trade, transport, tourism, domestic and industrial purposes.

As many as 106 new national waterways were declared in 2016 in addition to the five that already existed, she added.

Kolkata & Bengaluru to be included in World Bank's Doing Business report

NEW DELHI: The World Bank will now include Kolkata and Bengaluru, besides Delhi and Mumbai, for preparing Ease of Doing Business report to provide a holistic picture of business environment of the Country, an official has said.

 

"The Country of the size of India was not properly represented by just two cities, and now with the inclusion of Kolkata and Bengaluru, Indian ranking in the World Bank's report will present a much better picture," the official said.

 

The report ranks 190 nations based on ten parameters, which includes ease of starting a business, construction permits, getting electricity, getting credit, paying taxes, trade across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency.

The official added that the exercise to include these two new cities has already been initiated and would be included in the World Bank's ranking in the years to come.

DP World reports 1.1% gross like-for-like volume growth in 3Q 2019 October 25 , 2019

DUBAI: DP World PLC handled 17.7 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of container terminals in 3Q2019, with gross container volumes growing by 1.1 % year-on-year on a like-for-like basis. On a nine-month basis, like-for-like gross container volumes grew by +0.7% year-on-a year to 53.5 million TEU.

 

Jebel Ali (UAE) handled 3.6 million TEU in 3Q2019, down -1.0% year-on-year, as volumes stabilised following a shift of low-margin cargo. Growth in Asia and India remains robust with strong growth in ATI (Philippines), Qingdao (China). Growth in India has been driven by Cochin, Mundra and NSIGT (Mumbai). Decline in reported volumes in Asia Pacific & Indian Subcontinent is due to discontinued operations in Surabaya (Indonesia) and Tianjin (China).

 

At a consolidated level, our terminals handled 10.3 million TEU during 3Q 2019, a +0.8% improvement year-on-year on a like-for-like basis. The strong reported growth of +93.7% in Americas and Australia region is due to the consolidation of Australia and acquisition of the two terminals in Chile.

 

Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem commented: “Our portfolio continues to deliver a steady volume performance which is encouraging given the challenging macro backdrop caused by the global trade dispute. However, despite this uncertainty, it is encouraging to see robust growth in key markets such as Asia Pacific and Indian Subcontinent, while growth in west coast of Americas remains solid. In Europe, London Gateway continues to deliver strong growth due to market share gains. While we have seen volumes stabilising in Jebel Ali (UAE), the outlook remains uncertain given the regional geopolitics and we remain focused on profitable origin & destination cargo.’’

 

“On our broader portfolio, we continue to make progress in strengthening our product offering, allowing us to connect directly with end customers to deliver a range of unique logistic solutions. We are seeing positive signs of progress in our new businesses that give us encouragement for the future. The near-term focus is on integrating our recent acquisitions, managing costs and disciplined investment to cement DP Worlds position as the logistics partner of choice. Overall, we remain well placed to deliver full year market expectations.’’

KICT honoured as Fastest Growing Terminal in 2018-19

GANDHIDHAM: Kandla International Container Terminal (KICT) has received an award in the ‘Fastest Growing Terminal’ category for 2018-19 at the 33rd Deendayal Port Trust (DPT) Awards held on October 5, 2019 at the Gandhidham Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Gujarat. On behalf of KICT and the J. M. Baxi Group, the award was received by Mr Amardeep Singh Parmar, Terminal Head of KICT from Mr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers, informed a release. 

 

A total of 43 port users were recognised and awarded for their contribution towards making Deendayal Port the numero uno Major Port for the 

12th consecutive year by handling 115.40 million tonnes of cargo during 2018-19.

 

Along with Mr Mansukh Mandaviya, others who graced the occasion were DPT Chairman, Mr Sanjay Mehta, IFS; Director, Ministry of Shipping, 

Mr Arvind Chaudhary, MP; Mr Vinod Chawda, MLA; Ms Maltiben Maheshwari; Mr Vasanbhai Ahir; Gandhidham Municipality President, 

Mr Kanjibhai Bharya; Kandla Timber Association Head, Mr Navnit R. Gajjar, and other leading members of the trade, the release added.

Höegh Autoliners transport critical Breakbulk cargo from Mumbai to Ghana

MUMBAI: When critical equipment needed to be transported urgently from Mumbai for an infrastructure project in Ghana, OM Freight Forwarders chose Höegh Autoliners’ unbeatable direct liner service and experience in transporting breakbulk cargo. Recently Höegh Autoliners India was presented an opportunity to transport equipment and track laying machines that would be used in the development of a rail network from Tema to Akosomba. 

 

The challenge posed was that the customer needed one hundred sensitive breakbulk units to be shipped urgently for a project deadline.

 

Unbeatable liner service

With the customer’s strict time constraints, Höegh Autoliners’ regular and direct liner service from India to Africa offered the most competitive transit time in the market. In addition, with a fixed departure time, it meant the customer could plan and prepare their cargo for transportation in advance.

Capt. Atuldutt Sharma of Höegh Autoliners India says; With the equipment being an essential part of the project, the customer could not afford any delays. Höegh’s India to Africa service offered the best possible transit time of 25 days from Mumbai to Tema, which ensured the customer keep to their tight deadline. 

 

Dependable equipment

Transporting sensitive equipment like this is a precise operational process that requires experienced personnel and dependable equipment. 

The cargo handling team were put to the test, when the shipment consisting of 100 breakbulk pieces of varying sizes and shapes, needed to be transported on the same vessel. Using Höegh’s diverse fleet of rolltrailers, the team devised a plan to strategically place the 100 breakbulk units on 15 select rolltrailers. This ensured all units fit inside the vessel, and would reach the destination in time for the project

Mr. Vishal Joshi, OM Freight Forwarders says; We were extremely pleased with Höegh’s professional team that provided a customised solution for our shipment. With the competitive transit time offered, and equipment provided on such short notice, Höegh ensured our critical cargo reached its destination on time.

 

Safer with RoRo

By rolling the cargo on and off the vessel, it eliminates the need for crane lifts in both load and discharge port. This reducing the risk of damage to the cargo and ensures a safer operation.  Once inside the vessel, the rolltrailers are secured to designated lashing points underdeck, safeguarding the sensitive equipment from humidity or seawater.

 

Atuldutt continues; Keeping to the customer’s deadline, the cargo was safely transported on board Höegh Amsterdam ready for its journey to Tema. These types of breakbulk shipments demonstrate how our dedicated Breakbulk Team around the world, in their quest for excellence offer our customers timely, reliable, safe, professional and cost effective services, said a company release.

IMF sees Indian economic growth rebounding to 7 % next fiscal

GENEVA: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) sees Indian economic growth rebounding to around 7 per cent in the next financial year, supported by measures like monetary policy stimulus and corporate income tax cuts. We see the Indian economy rebounding from our projected 6.1 per cent growth this fiscal year to something like 7 per cent in the next fiscal year (2020). We see the factors that will support growth, including monetary policy stimulus, working their way through the pipeline, Jonathan Ostry, Deputy Director, Asia Pacific Department at the IMF, told reporters.

 

The recent tax cuts, Government's progress in addressing lingering weaknesses in the financial sector and measures to support growth sectors as seen as factors underpinning growth in the near term, Ostry said.

 

Talking about the slowdown in Indian economy in recent quarters, he said: indeed (it) took many of us by surprise, including the IMF.

"There wasn't a single cause for the slowdown there were many different causes at work including corporate and regulatory environmental uncertainties, the stresses in the non-bank financial sector, (and) stresses in the rural sector, among others," he said.

Indian Register of Shipping receives RO authorisation from Denmark October 24 , 2019

MUMBAI: The Danish Maritime Authority (DMA) has approved the application by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) for authorisation as a “Recognised Organisation” (RO).

Seeking RO status from key maritime flags is part of IRClass’ strategy to expand its presence in Europe. The company already has offices in the UK, Greece, the Netherlands and Turkey with plans to expand its business in other Northern European countries.

 

With the addition of this high-quality flag, IRClass is now approved by 44 leading flag administrations globally. Having secured EU approval in 2016, IRClass has been authorised earlier by flag administrations like Malta, Cyprus, Netherlands, Bulgaria and are in the process of seeking approval from other key maritime flags in Europe.

 

In a letter to IRClass the DMA stated: “We are fully convinced that IRClass is a qualified and competent organization capable of providing professional services for our Danish shipping industry. The agreement will further strengthen the maritime ties between India and Denmark.”

“IRClass is proud to have been formally recognised as a “Recognised Organisation” by the DMA. This enables us to offer our classification services to Danish flagged vessels and further enhances our reputation in the European market as a trustworthy classification society with a commitment to provide prompt and value-added services to European shipowners,” said Mr PK Mishra, Vice President & Regional Manager (EU) for IRClass.

 

The DMA letter concluded by stating that: We look forward to establishing a sound working relationship with IRClass and will seize future opportunities for direct technical cooperation with your distinguished classification society.”

India bans single-use plastics on Ships in its Waters

NEW DELHI: India has decided to ban single-use plastics on ships sailing in its waters, effective immediately. According to Directorate General of Shipping, plastics including cutlery, plates and cups, are prohibited on board Indian ships and foreign ships when in India.

The current ban includes other plastics, such as bottles, bags and dispensing containers for cleaning fluids. India also announced that, with effect from January 1, 2020, additional single-use plastics would be added to the list.

Over the years, India has actively collaborated in the work of the UNEP, including for the prevention of marine pollution. The Directorate General of Shipping cited International Maritime Organization as saying that marine litter “presents a huge problem in our oceans,” with some scientists warning that, by 2050, the quantity of plastics in the oceans could outweigh fish.

The Country opted for the ban in order to avoid future pollution through non-responsible manner of single-use plastics disposal.

India-US trade: Contours of a deal almost final, says Piyush Goyal October 24 , 2019

NEW DELHI: In a clear sign that India and the US are close to finding common ground on their outstanding trade issues that started looking intractable, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently said here that the two sides “have almost resolved the broad contours” of an imminent deal in this regard. He even hinted at a “much larger engagement between the two countries in the days ahead”, hinting at the possibility of a larger bilateral trade agreement, following the limited deal on the immediate horizon.

 

This is perhaps the first time New Delhi is making it unambiguously clear that the differences between the two sides on a host of trade issues have indeed narrowed down. A limited deal was expected to be announced when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US President Donald Trump on Sept. 24 

 

but that was not to be, as both sides practically stuck to their positions. India’s exports to the US, its largest market, touched $52.4 billion in 2018-19, while imports were to the tune of $35.5 billion. Its trade surplus with the US has been shrinking in the past two years, as it has stated importing oil and gas from the largest economy, something that India has been highlighting. According to the US Government data, New Delhi’s trade surplus with Washington eased to $21.3 billion in 2018 from $22.9 billion in 2017. In contrast, China’s trade surplus with the US widened further to a record $419.2 billion last year from $375.6 billion in 2017, despite the tariff war between the top two economies.

On the 16-nation Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Goyal said that the government would protect the interests of domestic industry before entering into the proposed mega free-trade pact, which is in the last phase of negotiations.

PICT handles its First Concor Container Movement October 24 , 2019

PARADIP: The first Concor Container train movement took place from Paradip International Cargo Terminal (PICT) on dock rail siding for our esteemed customer Jindal Stainless Steel Ltd on 6th October 2019. 

 

A detailed advance planning / coordination in terms of necessary approvals pertaining to siding inclusion, Railway Receipt (RR) generation, 

etc was well coordinated by 'PICT marketing & railway liaisoning team', finally with smooth rake handling within free time, by PICT operations team, ensured overall a happy customer experience, especially for the reputed corporates involved namely JSL and CONCOR.

The rake was loaded with 44 TEUs of Quick Lime and 46 TEUs of Scrap.

HICT bags the Swachhta Hi Seva Award 2019

KOLKATA: The Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) held an event “Swachhta Hi Seva” at the CPT Officers Club Auditorium, Haldia Township at 1800 hours on the 2nd of October 2019. The event was to acknowledge the efforts of the entities towards sanitation and cleanliness of the surroundings and by extension, the environment.

 

The Haldia International Container Terminal (HICT) was felicitated by the HDC for the upkeep and their efforts in the “Swachhta Hi Seva” motto. HICT has played an active role for ‘Pakhwada’ with the activities pertaining to cleanliness. Scheduled guidelines for the ‘Pakhwada’ were formulated and circulated to each department of HICT and all departments observed the same in the effectively. A series of activities, like upkeep and cleaning of office premises, terminal, carrying out inspection and repair work of all sanitary facilities in the office premises and terminal, cleaning and painting of road signs, displaying cleanliness message safety banners have been undertaken as part of the ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’. Besides, a special cleanliness drive was organized on 19th May 2019 and 19th September 2019 at the office premises, terminal, wharf, main stores, workshop and Training Centre. Also, various training programs on cleanliness and ‘5S’ Kaizen were organized for employees explaining the importance of keeping the premises clean & hygienic and to stop the usage of plastic in daily life.

 

The award was presented by Shri. G. Senthilvel, Dy. Chairman Haldia Dock Complex, KOPT and was received by Mr. Sauvik Kumar Saha – Head HR and Mr. Harikesh B Singh – Head Engineering on behalf of HICT and the J M BAXI GROUP.

 

Some notable personalities like Shri. CR Das – Deputy Inspector General, Coast Guard, Shri. B Dutta – Principal, DAV School, Shri. SK Jha – Commandant, CISF, Haldia, and other representatives from TMIL, Five Star Logistics, ISPL, AM Enterprise, AEGIS Logistics, Replay Stevedoring and Nationalist HDC (C.P.T) Thika Sramik Mazdoor Union graced the occasion.

Shipper must indicate specific HS Codes rather than adopting ‘Others’ category: DGFT October 24 , 2019

NEW DELHI: The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has asked the trade and industry to be careful while mentioning Harmonised (HS) Codes in the Bill of Entry, in case of imports and Shipping Bills in case of exports.

It has asked them to indicate the specific HS Codes of items at 8 digit where they exist, instead of using the ‘Others’ category in a loose and inaccurate manner.

The DGFT warned that any wilful mis-declaration of HS Codes will be duly dealt with under Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.

India maintains 8 digit HS Codes under the Indian Trade Classification (Harmonized System) 2017.

DGFT said it has observed that many importers while filing Bill of Entry with the Customs Authorities are not doing due diligence in mentioning the correct HS Codes at 8 digit level.

It said that even though specific codes are available for the imported items under ITC (HS), 2017, Schedule – 1 (Import Policy), importers tend to casually adopt the ‘others’ category, which is essentially a residual category of the relevant products.

Next FTP may reduce raw material costs to boost sliding exports

NEW DELHI: India’s upcoming Foreign Trade Policy is likely to ease the norms for import of raw materials and capital goods for exporters in a bid to provide a boost for exports, hit by sluggish global demand.

The Foreign Trade Policy 2020-25 will also offer higher export rewards to products with geographic indication (GI) tag such as Alphonso mango, Banarasi sarees and Moradabadi metal craft with the Make in India scheme being at its core, officials aware of the details said.

The Commerce Department also proposes to lay special emphasis on services and e-commerce in the upcoming policy that is to come into effect on April 1, 2020.

“In certain cases, there are notional duties that increase the export obligation of the exporters. We are rationalising some schemes to encourage them to do more local sourcing,” said an official.

The Department is considering simplifying various export incentive schemes such as Advance Authorisation Scheme, which facilitates duty free import of inputs for export products, Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) that allows exporters to import certain amount of capital goods at zero duty for upgrading technology related with exports, and Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS) to incentivise exports of various services ranging from legal and accounting to engineering and medical, officials said.

MSC creates Mobile Game to raise awareness on sustainability in Shipping

GENEVA: MSC is pleased to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind shipping game: The Sea Rider, said a recent release from the company.

Available on the Apple Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android) for everybody, the game provides fun, engaging entertainment for the users, who can navigate a giant container ship, collect coins and gather points.

While featuring MSC’s green fleet including some of the World’s Largest Container Ships and the actual MSC Global Network of some 200 ocean services worldwide, the game also provides insights into MSC’s environmental performance and sustainability approach.

Users will not only learn about some of the company’s activities around preserving the environment, but practically they will have to sling the ship from one port to another while minimising the environmental impact. This might include adapting the vessel speed, or avoiding whales.

Conducting shipping operations in a sustainable, ethical way MSC is a responsible company with a longstanding nautical heritage and passion for the sea. As an active member of the United Nations Global Compact, and supporter of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, MSC is pleased to introduce The Sea Rider game as a way to raise awareness on the importance 

of conducting container shipping operations in a sustainable way.

Recently, the company published its 2018 MSC’s Sustainability Report highlighting some key achievements from various companies in the MSC Group. To download a copy, please go to msc.com/sustainability.

Portall Infosystems inks MoU with IOS Partners, Florida

MUMBAI: Portall Infosystems Pvt Ltd and IOS Partners, Florida are working together to explore diverse business opportunities across the world in the maritime shipping and logistics sector.

This association will bring global best practices to technology offerings in the maritime and logistics space; backed by the right policy and legal framework.

The new partnership will bring about much needed transformation in the shipping and logistics sector.

Prime Minister highlights efforts to improve Ease of Doing Business in India

NEW DELHI: The members of US India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi. The delegation was led by Chairman, USISPF, Mr. John Chambers.

Prime Minister highlighted the steps taken by his Government to improve the Ease of Doing Business in the Country when members of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) called on him here.

The Prime Minister also referred to the evolving start-up ecosystem in the Country, highlighting the entrepreneurial risk taking capacity of India’s youth.

Modi talked about steps taken to ensure ‘Ease of Doing Business’ including reduction of corporate tax and labour reforms.

He also outlined that the target of the Government is to ensure ‘Ease of Living’. He said the unique strength of India is the availability of three Ds – democracy, demography and ‘dimaag’ (brains).

The delegation expressed faith in Modi’s vision for the Country and said that the next five years of India will define the next twenty five years of the world, the statement said.

The USISPF is a non-profit organisation, with the primary objective of strengthening the India-US bilateral and strategic partnership through policy advocacycy in the fields of economic growth, entrepreneurship, employment-creation and innovation.

India's First Woman Captain, Radhika Menon honoured by Govt Of India under Bharat Ki Laxmi campaign October 23 , 2019

NEW DELHI: The Indian Government recognised Captain Radhika Menon under the Bharat Ki Laxmi campaign initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Captain Menon, who is the first female master mariner had won the top international bravery award by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for 'Exceptional Bravery at sea 2016'. She was recognised recently, under the Bharat Ki Laxmi campaign which was announced by PM Modi on September 29, during the 57th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' to honour the extraordinary achievements of women in society.

Captain Radhika Menon is the first woman captain of the Indian Merchant Navy who received the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 2016. The IMO, which is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships, conferred Captain Menon with bravery award to honour her for rescuing seven fishermen from a sinking fishing boat in tumultuous seas in the Bay of Bengal in June 2015. Captain Radhika Menon first started her career as a radio officer at the Shipping Corporation of India and established the International Women Seafarers Foundation (IWSF) in 2017 to help young women pursuing a career in maritime. Menon has made her mark spectacularly in a male-dominated profession and proven that professions are not gender-based. 

Konkan Railway looking to transform itself as “complete logistic service provider”

MUMBAI: Faced with challenges of declining freight traffic and the impact of economic downturn, the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) is looking at transforming itself into a “complete logistic service provider” even as it strives to look for new revenue streams in areas of its expertise — railway engineering and technological innovations.

“The company is striving hard to convert itself into a complete logistics service provider. This is a sunrise field where I find lots of revenue is available without much of expenditure, and the profit margin is very very high. The backbone of Konkan Railway can definitely be used to exploit logistic advantages which we have got,” 

H D Gujrati, Director, Operations and Commercial, KRCL, said in his address at the 29th Foundation Day celebrations of the Corporation 

recently.

Towards this end, Gujrati pointed out, Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR) has set up a container terminal at Balli in Goa. “Once the (required) clearance is available, probably export-import traffic will start moving on that route,” he said.

KRCL’s Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) service has been extended upto Karambeli near Vapi in Gujarat on the Western Railway, he informed. 

“We are negotiating with the Indian Railways to make it a permanent service,” Gujrati said.

Govt likely to extend benefits to exporters under MEIS till March 31 October 23 , 2019

NEW DELHI: The Government may extend benefits to exporters under the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) till March 31 next year, when the updated Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2020-2025 will go live. The current deadline for the scheme to be disabled is December 31, 2019.

The Government is also considering key suggestions such as introduction of industry rates for deemed exports and removal of pre-import conditions requirement in the Self Ratification Scheme. The suggestions have emerged out of hundreds of meetings between the Government and Industry Associations, people in the know, said.

Adding an array of agricultural products in the interest equalisation scheme and making extensive changes to schemes such as Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) and Export Credit Insurance Scheme are also under consideration for the upcoming FTP, sources said.

The decision to extend MEIS benefits is expected to draw the biggest cheer from the industry, 

which had opposed its withdrawal. Last month, the Government had announced a new scheme named Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) to replace the MEIS for all goods exports.

Introduced in 2015 under the FTP, the mega MEIS was created out of a merger of five existing reward schemes. It incentivises merchandise exports of more than 8,000 items now and is the biggest of its kind. Exporters earn duty credits at fixed rates of 2 per cent, 

3 per cent, and 5 per cent, depending upon the product and country.

Officials said the new RoDTEP would also be based on this method but the rates were yet to be decided.

For the EPCG scheme, the Government is considering removal of annual average and keeping only specific export obligations. Also, total exports of a third party will be counted as export obligation instead of only proceeds realised from third party by EPCG holder.

Apart from taking a decision to soon implement the recommendations of the Baba Kalyani Committee on revamping Special Economic Zones, policymakers have turned to export oriented units (EOUs) to provide the next level of growth. While duty benefits for infrastructure may not be extended, policy formulation, regulation, and administration may be brought under one roof for EOUs.

For deemed exports, the Government may allow a reintroduction of all industry rate for drawback, which is now limited to only the brand rate. The Centre may also include central excise duty on fuel in the drawback. However, a suggestion to double the rate of interest on delayed payment to 12 per cent from the present 6 per cent may not be allowed, sources said.

On the other hand, for the advanced authorisation scheme, composition fee may be rationalised while norms may be fixed at a faster rate. The new FTP is expected to have new chapters on services and e-commerce.

Govt likely to extend benefits to exporters under MEIS till March 31

NEW DELHI: The Government may extend benefits to exporters under the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) till March 31 next year, when the updated Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2020-2025 will go live. The current deadline for the scheme to be disabled is December 31, 2019.

The Government is also considering key suggestions such as introduction of industry rates for deemed exports and removal of pre-import conditions requirement in the Self Ratification Scheme. The suggestions have emerged out of hundreds of meetings between the Government and Industry Associations, people in the know, said.

Adding an array of agricultural products in the interest equalisation scheme and making extensive changes to schemes such as Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) and Export Credit Insurance Scheme are also under consideration for the upcoming FTP, sources said.

The decision to extend MEIS benefits is expected to draw the biggest cheer from the industry, 

which had opposed its withdrawal. Last month, the Government had announced a new scheme named Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) to replace the MEIS for all goods exports.

Introduced in 2015 under the FTP, the mega MEIS was created out of a merger of five existing reward schemes. It incentivises merchandise exports of more than 8,000 items now and is the biggest of its kind. Exporters earn duty credits at fixed rates of 2 per cent, 

3 per cent, and 5 per cent, depending upon the product and country.

Officials said the new RoDTEP would also be based on this method but the rates were yet to be decided.

For the EPCG scheme, the Government is considering removal of annual average and keeping only specific export obligations. Also, total exports of a third party will be counted as export obligation instead of only proceeds realised from third party by EPCG holder.

Apart from taking a decision to soon implement the recommendations of the Baba Kalyani Committee on revamping Special Economic Zones, policymakers have turned to export oriented units (EOUs) to provide the next level of growth. While duty benefits for infrastructure may not be extended, policy formulation, regulation, and administration may be brought under one roof for EOUs.

For deemed exports, the Government may allow a reintroduction of all industry rate for drawback, which is now limited to only the brand rate. The Centre may also include central excise duty on fuel in the drawback. However, a suggestion to double the rate of interest on delayed payment to 12 per cent from the present 6 per cent may not be allowed, sources said.

On the other hand, for the advanced authorisation scheme, composition fee may be rationalised while norms may be fixed at a faster rate. The new FTP is expected to have new chapters on services and e-commerce.

CMA CGM launches SHIPFIN TRADE FINANCE, its new range of import and export financing solutions

MARSEILLE: The CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics, is pleased to announce the launch of SHIPFIN TRADE FINANCE, its new range of financing services dedicated to importing and exporting, in partnership with Incomlend, a global invoice finance platform.

An innovative offer to support the international development of the CMA CGM Group's customers Committed to supporting its customers and their development, the CMA CGM Group now wishes to support their business through financing solutions that are tailored to their needs. The Group is thus putting its expertise and presence in 160 countries around the world at the service of its customers’ international development.

With SHIPFIN TRADE FINANCE, CMA CGM offers all its customers, importers and exporters alike, a range of simple, reliable and rapid financial services to consolidate and support their international growth. Thanks to a dedicated team of experts based in the Group's headquarters in Marseilles, customers can benefit from a set of tailor-made solutions ranging from extended payment terms to financing advances.

 

Two complementary solutions: SUPPLY CHAIN FINANCING and CARGO FINANCING

The SHIPFIN TRADE FINANCE range is based on two initial products dedicated respectively to importing and exporting customers: SUPPLY CHAIN FINANCING and CARGO FINANCING. They will be available on the CMA CGM, ANL, APL and CNC platforms and initially available to customers based in India, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines before gradually being deployed to other countries.

 

With SUPPLY CHAIN FINANCING, CMA CGM offers a solution dedicated to importers who wish to free up their working capital while stabilizing their supplier relations. 

 

Group customers who opt for this solution can thus:

 

• Extend their payment deadlines up to 120 days;

• Strengthen their supplier relations by improving their cash flow;

• Optimize payment tracking by finding all their documents in one place;

• Master their compliance risk thanks to the KYC (Know Your Customer) assessment achieved by their suppliers;

• Simplify their processes by interfacing their IT systems with the platform (EDI/API).

In addition, thanks to CARGO FINANCING, CMA CGM 

offers a solution intended for exporters who wish to improve 

their working capital and ensure the growth of their business, thus allowing them to:

• Maintain their cash position by receiving payment as soon as they load their goods, for up to 90% of the value of the invoice;

• Optimize the tracking of their invoices and customer receivables by finding all their documents in one place;

• Reduce their customer risk thanks to CMA CGM's credit insurance coverage;

• Simplify their multi-currency exchanges (4 currencies available);

• Simplify their invoice collection process;

• Benefit from non-recourse financing and maintain their borrowing power.

 

On the occasion of the launch of SHIPFIN TRADE FINANCE, Mathieu Friedberg, Senior Vice President – Commercial Agencies Network, CMA CGM Group, said: “By launching SHIPFIN, the CMA CGM Group goes even further in the customer relationship. We draw on our more than 40 years' experience acquired at the heart of international trade to offer innovative, simple and relevant solutions beyond shipping to support our customers' international development.”

 

Essar Ports posts record cargo growth of 20.07% in H1FY20

MUMBAI: Essar’s Ports business, which operates four terminals on the East and West coasts of India, 

has registered a 20.07% growth in cargo volumes with a throughput of 27.29 Million Tonnes (MT) in the first half of FY2019-20.

The growth has been driven by a 183.21% increase in 

third-party cargo compared to that in the corresponding period in the previous financial year. 

Cargo from captive customers grew by 6%.

Speaking on the performance, Mr Rajiv Agarwal, MD & CEO, Essar Ports Ltd, said: “Significant boost in third-party business has been the key driver for our growth in overall volumes. Alongside this, our focus on driving operational efficiencies and minimising operating costs has helped in recording strong growth. Essar Ports has consistently surpassed the average growth rate of the sector, which is showing signs of heightened economic activity.”

Terminal-wise performance 

Hazira

The 50 MTPA terminal has had the following highlights:

• Cargo handling of 14.17 MT with 3.24% growth compared to the same period last year

• 24.46% growth in third-party business over the numbers in H1FY19

• Enhanced third-party cargo share to 16.16%

Vizag

The 24 MTPA Essar Vizag Terminal (EVTL), India’s largest iron ore handling terminal located on the outer harbour of Visakhapatnam Port, has had the following highlights:

• Cargo handling of 5.91 MT with 52.22% overall growth compared to same period last year

• 7.17% growth in anchor customer business

• 277.76% growth in third-party business over the numbers in H1 FY19

• Enhanced third-party cargo share to 41.62%

Salaya

The 20 M 

The 20 MTPA Essar Bulk Terminal Salaya (EBTSL), deepest draft facility of Saurashtra region, has clocked a cargo throughput of 3.22 MT in the first half of FY20.

Paradip

The 16 MTPA Essar Bulk Terminal Paradip (EBTPL), in Paradip Port, has clocked a cargo throughput of 4 MT in the first half of FY20.

Master Marine Services signs MoU with Portall Infosystems

MUMBAI: An MoU has been signed between Portall Infosystems Pvt. Ltd. and Master Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. to explore and integrate various products to add value to the maritime community.

 

 Master Marine has over 50 offices with a staff strength of over 2000 personnel PAN INDIA offering a wide spectrum of services in shipping process and  logistics for over 35 years. Portall having a strong domain expertise in technology and logistics operations will jointly work with Master Marine’s team in solving problems for the industry by identifying and addressing the operational process gaps in the shipping and logistics sector.

 

Both companies will strive to offer seamless digital offerings delivered on cloud platforms keeping in mind data security, speed and accuracy via the Portall integrated logistics ERP system and Master Marine’s new integrated digital portal Master Marine Digitech 3 (MMD 3).  

Portall announces agreement with INTTRA by E2open

MUMBAI: Portall Infosystems Pvt. Ltd has announced that it has formed an alliance partnership with INTTRA by E2open. As part of the agreement, the companies will provide seamless container booking services for stakeholders on PCS1x.

Stakeholders including freight forwarders, exporters and CHAs can effect bookings, track and submit shipping instructions for their respective consignments using this collaborated booking module system. With distinct and simplified features like auto population, reuse of data, shipping instructions and BL drafts, Portall enables users to fast track their interactions with Shipping Lines in this collaborated platform. Users can make use of services available by logging into the PCS1x account without the need to sign-in separately. With this collaboration, Portall Infosystems, hopes to bring more customers in the digital ecosystem in the shipping and maritime space by expanding their palate of services accessible on PCS1x.  

Several other initiatives are underway and will be announced soon, said a Portall representative. 

For more information, call toll free 1800 11 5055 or 

write to info@portall.in; contact SPOC’s : vinitp@portall.in

India imposes anti-dumping duty on certain steel imports

NEW DELHI: India has imposed a provisional $29-$200 a tonne anti-dumping duty to rein in burgeoning and predatory imports of galvalume steel products from China, Vietnam and Korea which were causing material injury to the domestic industry. The duty will remain in effect for six months.

Following investigations, the DGTR found that exporters from these three countries were sending galvalume to India “below their normal values”, causing “material injury” to the domestic producers like JSW Steel, Tata Steel and Bhushan Power and Steel among others.

“There is a significant increase in imports of subject goods from subject countries in absolute terms as well as in relation to production and consumption in India. Material injury has been caused by the dumped imports of subject goods from subject countries,” the DGTR found in its preliminary findings.

Box ships deployed on US and Europe trade lanes continue to increase in size

LONDON: The average containership size on the Asia-North Europe trade is expected to reach 17,000 TEU by September 2020, while the size of vessels deployed on the transpacific trades is also continuing to swell as ocean liners take delivery of more mega ships.

'This year saw the departure of the last 4,200- to 5,500-TEU ships from the Asia-Europe routes, following ZIM's decision to withdraw the Asia-Mediterranean ZMP service in March and HMM suspending its Asia-North Europe AEX service in August,' said Alphaliner in its latest weekly report.

'Widely used on the Asia-Europe trades 15 years ago, tonnage of this size class has now been completely displaced by ships that are - most recently - up to four times larger than their predecessors in the mid-2000s.'

In July, MSC deployed the first 23,700-TEU 'megamax-24' vessel on the Asia-Europe trade and a further five units were delivered in the last three months, reported New York's FreightWaves.

'Twenty-four such ships from various carriers will join the world fleet before the end of 2020,' said Alphaliner. 'All these ships are earmarked for the Asia-North Europe trade.'

MSC deployed the first 19,000-TEU megamax units on the Asia-Mediterranean route in March, raising the average vessel size on that trade lane to 12,600 TEU.

'The Asia-North America routes also saw average vessel sizes increase, but this year the pace has been slower, compared to the Asia-Europe trades, as carriers took a more cautious approach in the face of slower demand growth in the US,' said Alphaliner.

The analyst also reported that the number of inactive containerships has risen as carriers plough ahead with their scrubber retrofit programmes to meet the International Maritime Organization's new low sulphur rule deadline of January 2020.

'The inactive containership fleet has risen sharply over the last two weeks to reach 180 units for 753,819 TEU as of September 30, or 3.3 per cent of the total fleet,' said Alphaliner.

The inactive fleet is expected to expand further this month due to the impact of blanked sailings and the continuing stream of ships entering docks for scrubber retrofits. 'Carriers have announced further void sailings in November in response to weak cargo demand, which could see the inactive fleet remaining above 800,000 TEU for most of the fourth quarter,' said the analyst.

India to be topmost export destination for Peru

LIMA: Peru, which has recently come out a new export master plan, said that it would increase its exports to India. Metals like copper, gold, and zinc are among the items that Peru prominently exports to India.

India will be one of the top priority destinations for Peru, a statement said.

“We have implemented a strong plan to intensify our efforts to encourage exports to new markets. The relationship between Peru and India continues to go strong. This Country will become a key market in Asia for Peruvian Companies and Trade," said Luis Torres, the Executive President of the official Peruvian Exports and Tourism Board (PROMPERU).

Asia to US box traffic dips for the first time in three months

LONDON: Outbound containers exported to the U.S. from 10 major countries and regions in Asia in September (based on shipments that mother vessels are loaded with at ports of origin) decreased 0.5% to 1,441,130 TEUs, incurring the first year-on-year decline in three months, according to American research company Descartes Datamyne. In the first nine months (January-September), in contrast, they increased a minute 0.6% from a year earlier to 12,336,367 TEUs.

Looking at September exports by origin, those from China waned 4.3% to 881,529 TEUs, suffering a year-on-year contraction for eight months in a row, but managed to hold the largest share of the pie, Descartes Datamyne said, referring Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and bill-of-lading (B/L) data provided by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB). Ranked second were containers from South Korea, which plunged 11.8% to 137,130 TEUs, registering the first year-on-year decrease in 19 months. Finishing in third place, those from Vietnam ballooned 38.2% to 100,456 TEUs, growing from a year earlier for 10 months in a row. Exports from Taiwan came in fourth place, improving 11.6% to 76,492 TEUs and enjoying a year-on-year rise for the seventh consecutive month.

Containers from Japan, which finished in eighth place, fell 6.5% to 34,464 TEUs, marking a year-on-year decrease for 10 straight months. Including those transshipped, they totaled 47,178 TEUs, up 3.8%, making the first year-on-year increase in two months.

Assam set to have India’s first International Multi-Modal Hub October 18 , 2019

GUWAHATI: Assam Industry Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary said that the State is all set to have India''s first International Multi-Modal Hub recently.

He also said that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to fund the project at an estimated cost of around Rs 600 crore.

"The Government of Assam is planning to develop Jogighopa, a small township near Brahmaputra river, as a logistics hub or Transshipment point for cargo moving from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland to Bangladesh," he said, while talking to reporters.

In addition, the Munshiganj River Terminal in Bangladesh will be used as a Customs station to handle third-party export and import cargo via Kolkata Port.

"To bring about a significant reduction in logistics cost and faster delivery of Bangladesh export cargo, the Indian side have raised the point regarding permitting a third Country export-import trade under the Coastal Shipping agreement and protocol on inland water transit and trade (PIWTT) by allowing trans-shipment through ports on the East Coast of India," he said.

"The Bangladesh Government agreed to hold stakeholder consultations and revert on the matter," he added.

"Increasing connectivity through air, water, rail, road offer mutually beneficial opportunity for enhancing economic cooperation between Bangladesh and the Northeastern States of India and beyond," Patowary said.

"Standard operating procedures for the use of Chattagram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India, particularly to and from the Northeast of India has recently been concluded and it is expected that it

FIEO delegation to visit Kenya, Ethiopia in November to boost exports opportunities

CHENNAI: A high level 37 member FIEO business delegation led by 

Mr. Israr Ahmed, Regional Chairman, FIEO Southern Region will be visiting Nairobi and Addis Ababa from 17 to

22 November, 2019 to explore business opportunities in Agriculture, Machineries and Food Processing sector.

The program is organised with the support of International Trade Centre (ITC) Geneva.  Apart from scheduled Business to Business meetings, the delegation will visit major Special Economic Zones, Plug and play facilities, etc available in both the countries.

The delegation also will be participating in the World Export Development Forum (WEDF) being organised at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia by ITC Geneva organised a the part of Africa Industrialisation week, hosted by the African Union Commission and Department of Trade and Industry, Ethiopia FIEO is taking the delegation in the background of building on the momentum of the newly ratified African Continental Free Trade Area. 

The business delegation also aims to provide cutting-edge machinery for food processing, storage and packaging solutions for a variety of agricultural products to Africa.

Mr. Israr Ahmed, Regional Chairman, FIEO Southern Region said, “At a time when trade tensions and escalating, protectionism are undermining the rules based multilateral system, by initiating this delegation, FIEO intend to help in diversification of trade to unexplored African countries.”

Mr. Israr Ahmed stated: “Trade between Africa and India has increased more than eight-fold from US$7.2 billion in 2001 to US$62.5 billion in 2018, making India Africa’s fourth-largest national trading partner, accounting for more than 6.4 percent of total African trade in 2018, up from 

2.7 percent in 2001. The business-to-business matchmaking platform in Kenya and Ethiopia will offer Indian delegates the opportunity to forge new business deals in agribusiness and also help MSME in strengthening their abilities in complying with standards, technical regulations, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, etc.”

NYK completes World’s first autonomous ship trial voyage from China to Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s NYK has completed a trial on the world’s first autonomous ship, a 70,826-tonne pure car truck carriers (PCTC) Iris Leader, sailing from China to Japan.

Using the Sherpa System for Real ship (SSR) navigation system, the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) trial was performed from 14-17 September from China’s Xinsha to Japan’s Nagoya, and then from Nagoya to Yokohama from 19-20 September.

During the trial, the SSR’s performance in actual sea conditions was monitored as it collected information on environmental conditions around the ship from existing navigational devices, calculated collision risk, automatically determined optimal routes and speeds that were safe and economical, and then automatically navigated the ship.

“Using data and experience gained through this trial but not obtainable through onshore simulators, NYK was able to ensure the feasibility of the SSR and its benefit for safe and optimal operations. This trial was a big step toward realizing NYK’s goal of manned autonomous ships,” NYK stated.

“NYK will analyse the data and continue to develop the SSR into a more advanced navigation-support system by making adjustments to the difference between the optimal course derived by the program and that determined by professional human judgment,” it added.

The SSR can become a basic technology for remote and unmanned navigation. The SSR verified by this trial will be applied to future coastal ships, which currently faces serious crew shortages, NYK highlighted.

“NYK’s aim of manned autonomous ships that will make use of advanced technologies and remote support from office to support ship operation and enhance safety,” NYK said.

This trial follows the autonomous ship trial guidelines that the IMO has outlined in June 2019, and it is conducted with approval from the Panama flag state.

Centre to bring law to fix minimum distance between Ports

NEW DELHI: The Government will soon bring a law, which will empower the Centre to fix minimum distance between two ports or to alter the limits of any port in the Country.

In recent years, competing ports have come up close to each other and it has become a major cause of concern, particularly for the Government-owned ports. Ensuring minimum distance will help Major Ports under Government compete with the private ones in the region.

“The New Indian Ports Bill will also specify the minimum quality standards or facilities that every new port has to ensure. The other features will include simplifying the regulatory and administrative mechanism for the ports, fixing of port charges and tariff,” said a Government official.

The issue was discussed in detail with the representatives from States who agreed to set up a panel which will finalise the draft Bill for Government’s consideration.

The proposed law will be applicable to all the 13 Major Ports (owned by Central Government) and other Non-Major Ports (under State Government or with private players) across the Country.

The proposal to set up the panel to look into all aspects is significant considering that some of the Maritime States had earlier opposed a similar Bill in 2011 when the Centre had moved a proposal to amend the Indian Port Act, 1908. They had alleged that the Centre was trying to usurp the powers of State Governments.

Officials also said that the Shipping Ministry will introduce the Major Port Authorities Bill during the winter session of parliament, which will give more freedom to the Major Port Chairmen to take decisions considering the prevailing business condition and to improve efficiency.

 

India seeks safeguards in China-led trade pact

BANGKOK: India wants safeguards to be built into a China-led trade pact to prevent a sudden surge in imports, the Commerce Ministry said recently as a new round of talks begin in Thailand.

 Negotiators for the 16-nation Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are in Bangkok this week for talks aimed at finalising the giant free trade zone by the end of the year.

Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has been holding talks to allay fears of a flood of Chinese imports if New Delhi joined the agreement, the Ministry said.

The focus and emphasis of the meetings chaired by the Commerce and Industry Minister was on putting in place appropriate safeguards including auto-trigger mechanism against sudden surge in imports from RCEP countries, it said in a statement.

India and China signs 120 MoUs for exports to China

NEW DELHI: Private companies from India and China signed more than 120 MoUs for export of various products from India, including sugar, chemicals, fish, plastics, pharmaceuticals and fertilisers recently. “China is working to bring down its trade surplus with India. In the first eight months of this year, India’s trade deficit went down by 1.6 per cent to $37.9 billion,”

Zhu Xiaohong, Counsellor, Embassy of China, pointed out at the India-China Business Meeting & Signing Ceremony organised by FICCI.

Modi and Xi held the second India-China Informal Summit on October 11-12.

Over 60 Chinese entrepreneurs from 34 sectors will carry out trade promotion activities in India; these enterprises have formalised trade agreements with orders of about $100 million, pointed out, Liu Changyu, Deputy Director General, Foreign Trade Department of Ministry of Commerce.

India’s trade deficit with China fell to $53 billion in 2018-19 from over $60 billion a year ago, but it still accounts for almost a third of India’s overall trade deficit.

Zhu said that attract Chinese customers, India needs to focus on compatibility, competitiveness, creativity and cooperation. “Chinese consumers want products that are competitive. Also products lacking innovation cannot succeed in the Chinese market,” he cautioned.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce is willing to strengthen cooperation with departments in India to improve economic and trade development, said Liu. “Chinese enterprises have responded to the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ campaigns and their investment in India has exceeded $8 billion,” he said.

“In the next 15 years, China will import $30 trillion of goods and $100 billion of services from the world. As the only two major developing countries with a population of over 1 billion, China and India are focussing on development,” he said.

Global Value Chains can help Developing Countries in better growth outcomes: World Bank

GENEVA: In an era of slowing trade and growth, developing countries can achieve better outcomes for its people through reforms to boost their participation in global value chains, according to a latest World Bank report.

In the report titled “World Development Report 2020: Trading for Development in the Age of Global Value Chains” that was released recently,

the bank argues that these reforms can help developing countries expand from commodity exports to basic manufacturing, while ensuring that economic benefits are shared more widely across society.

“Global value chains have played an important part in the growth, by enabling firms in developing countries to make significant gains in productivity, and by helping them transition from commodity exports to basic manufacturing,” World Bank Group Chief Economist Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg said.

She said that in the age of global value chains, all countries have much to benefit by speeding up reforms that increase commerce and boost growth.

The global value chains today account for nearly 50 per cent of trade worldwide, the World Bank said in its report.

“But their growth has plateaued since the financial crisis of 2008,” it said.

According to the report, creation of the European single market—together with the integration of China, India, and the Soviet Union into the global economy—created huge new product and labour markets, and so firms could sell the same goods to more people and take advantage of economies of scale leading to the further deepening of GVCs.

The report highlights the steps countries can take to attract GVC investments, even if they have been largely left out of the value chain revolution.

Small steps—such as speeding up customs and reducing border delays—can yield big benefits for countries making the transition from commodity exports to basic manufacturing.

“For many goods traded in global value chains, a day’s delay is equal to imposing a tariff in excess of one

per cent. In addition, investments that improve connectivity by modernising communications and roads, railways, and ports can yield large benefits,” it said.

India's August rice exports drop 29% on weak African demand: Govt

MUMBAI: India's rice exports in August fell 29% year-on-year to 644,249 tonnes, Government data showed, due to weak demand from African countries for non-basmati rice, among other factors. "Demand from west African countries is weak for non-basmati rice. They have bought a lot from China and don't need to buy huge volumes now," said Nitin Gupta, 

Vice President of Olam India's rice business. India is the world's biggest rice exporter but its shipments have plunged 27% in the first five months of the 2019/20 financial year, starting on April 1, to 3.8 million tonnes, the data showed.

Iran, the biggest buyer of India's basmati rice, has nearly stopped purchases in the last few weeks as it harvests its own crop, said an exporter based in New Delhi. 

"Iran could resume buying early next year after harvesting the local crop," the exporter said.

Rice supplies from India's summer-sown crop are expected to improve from next month and this could moderate local prices and make exports competitive, Gupta said.

Non-basmati rice exports could fall 40% in 2019/20 from a year ago unless the Government provided some incentive for exports, said B V Krishna Rao, President of the Rice Exporters Association (REA).

"The industry badly needs Government support to accelerate exports," Rao said.

India exported 11.95 million tonnes of rice in 2018/19 through March 31, down 7.2% from the previous 12 months, even though it had provided incentives for exports of non-basmati rice for four months of the year.