Transnet Port Terminals Ngqura Container Terminal (NCT), a deep-water port on the east coast of South Africa, has recorded the highest TEU handled in its history despite disruption from storms.
The Eastern Cape facility handled over 81,927 TEU in October 2017, which it claimed as a “remarkable milestone” that would “bode well for the economy of the region and the country” in a statement about the result.
Wandisa Vazi, TPT’s NCT Acting Terminal Manager, said that the milestone proved the terminal’s “capacity and readiness to handle greater volumes” as it achieved the result despite facing abnormally adverse weather conditions that affected service delivery to clients.
South Africa is also suffering from sluggish economic growth that is affecting both imports and exports.
Vazi added: “We are delighted that the terminal was able to handle this kind of volume while overcoming a number of challenges.
“It was really a team effort that allowed us to reach this milestone that included our staff collaborating with customers and other Transnet Operating Divisions.
“The NCT terminal prides itself on delivering exceptional service by our talented workforce that is supported by state-of-the-art equipment and modern technology.”
The terminal’s milestone volumes broke down into 63% from transhipments,19% in imports and 18% in exports.
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Siya Mhlaluka, TPT General Manager Eastern Cape Terminals, said: “We are grateful for the support that our customers and stakeholders have afforded us.
“It further cements the shared vision of both TPT and customers to growing volumes whenever an opportunity presents itself.
“We are also encouraged by the increase in the transshipment volumes which is testament to the fact that Ngqura Container Terminal is ideally positioned to service the east and west markets.”