Cargo To Africa

Category: Cargo To Africa

  • Enhancing African Cargo Transport: Government’s Pivotal Role

    Enhancing African Cargo Transport: Government’s Pivotal Role

    Transporting cargo to Africa presents unique challenges and opportunities. It’s a task that requires efficient coordination, robust infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies. The role of government in this domain is critical. Governments must act not only as regulators but also as enablers, ensuring that cargo to Africa is moved efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

    As the lifeline of trade and economic development, cargo transportation in Africa demands a strategic approach. Governments, by investing in infrastructure and technology, streamlining policies, and fostering sustainable practices, can significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of cargo movements to and from the continent.

    1. Infrastructure Development

    A key factor in improving cargo transportation in Africa is the development of robust infrastructure. Efficient transport systems are essential for moving goods quickly and cost-effectively. This involves upgrading existing roads, ports, and railways, as well as developing new ones to meet the growing demand.

    Investing in Physical Infrastructure

    The foundation of successful cargo transportation is strong physical infrastructure. This includes not only roads and railways but also ports and airports. Governments need to allocate funds and resources to build and maintain these critical assets. This process involves understanding current deficiencies and planning for future growth. Additionally, integrating different modes of transportation, such as rail, road, and maritime, is essential to create a seamless cargo transport network.

    Moreover, investment should not be limited to the physical aspects alone. It’s vital to ensure that these infrastructures are equipped with modern technologies to handle the complexities of today’s cargo movements. This includes automated systems for handling and tracking cargo, which can significantly reduce delays and enhance efficiency.

    Developing Logistics Facilities

    Alongside physical infrastructure, the development of logistics facilities plays a crucial role. These facilities, including warehouses, container depots, and distribution centres, must be strategically located and well-equipped. They should be designed to handle various types of cargo efficiently, ensuring quick turnover and reduced bottlenecks.

    In addition, the integration of technology in these logistics facilities is crucial. Advanced inventory management systems and automated handling equipment can greatly improve the speed and accuracy of cargo processing. This not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the risk of damage or loss, ensuring that cargo to Africa reaches its destination in optimal condition.

    2. Policy and Regulation

    Effective policy and regulation are fundamental for the smooth operation of cargo transportation. Governments must develop clear, practical regulations that safeguard interests without hindering the flow of goods. This involves balancing security, safety, and efficiency.

    Harmonizing Transport Regulations

    To facilitate easier movement of cargo, it’s vital to harmonize transport regulations across different African countries. This means creating common standards and procedures that all countries in the region can adopt. Such harmonization reduces the complexity and time involved in cross-border transportation, leading to more efficient cargo movement.

    Further, there’s a need for collaborative efforts among African nations to address regional challenges. Joint initiatives can lead to the development of shared infrastructure and systems, making the transportation of cargo to Africa more streamlined and less prone to delays.

    Simplifying Customs Processes

    Customs processes can often be a major bottleneck in cargo transportation. Simplifying these processes is crucial for efficient cargo movement. This involves the adoption of digital documentation, streamlined procedures, and transparent systems. By reducing paperwork and simplifying procedures, cargo can move more quickly through customs, reducing delays and costs.

    In addition, implementing advanced customs technologies, such as electronic data interchange (EDI) and automated customs clearance systems, can further enhance the speed and accuracy of the customs process. This not only benefits the transporters but also improves overall trade efficiency.

    Promoting Competition and Reducing Transport Costs

    Promoting competition in the cargo transportation sector is essential for reducing costs and improving service quality. Governments can encourage competition by ensuring a level playing field, where no single entity has the undue advantage. This involves regulating monopolistic practices and encouraging the entry of new players.

    Additionally, reducing transport costs is crucial for making cargo movement to Africa more accessible and affordable. This can be achieved by subsidizing certain transportation modes, offering tax incentives, and investing in cost-effective technologies.

    3. Trade Facilitation

    The facilitation of trade through efficient cargo transportation is a key role of governments. By adopting measures that streamline and expedite the movement of goods, governments can significantly boost trade and economic growth.

    Adopting Trade Facilitation Agreements

    Adoption of trade facilitation agreements is vital for smooth cargo transportation. These agreements, often multilateral, aim to simplify and harmonize international trade procedures. By committing to such agreements, African governments can ensure smoother, faster, and more predictable cross-border movement of cargo.

    Furthermore, these agreements often include provisions for mutual recognition of standards and procedures, which can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with cargo movements. This is especially important in the African context, where cross-border trade is a key driver of economic growth.

    Investing in Technology

    Investing in technology is essential for modernizing cargo transportation. This includes the adoption of digital platforms for tracking and managing cargo, as well as the use of advanced technologies like GPS and RFID for real-time tracking. Such technologies not only enhance efficiency but also improve transparency and security in the transportation process.

    Moreover, embracing innovative solutions like blockchain can revolutionize how cargo is tracked and documented. This leads to more reliable and tamper-proof systems, ensuring the integrity of cargo movements to Africa.

    4. Sustainability and Environmental Protection

    Sustainable practices in cargo transportation are crucial for protecting the environment and ensuring long-term economic viability. Governments must prioritize sustainability in their transportation policies and practices.

    Promoting Sustainable Transport Modes

    Promoting sustainable transport modes is key to minimizing the environmental impact of cargo transportation. This includes encouraging the use of eco-friendly vehicles, adopting cleaner fuel options, and investing in renewable energy sources for transportation infrastructure.

    In addition, implementing regulations that incentivize the use of environmentally friendly practices can significantly contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of cargo transportation. This not only benefits the environment but also aligns with global sustainability goals.

    Developing Regulations for Safe and Responsible Transport

    Developing regulations for safe and responsible transport is essential. This involves setting standards for vehicle emissions, cargo handling, and waste management. These regulations should ensure that cargo transportation does not adversely affect the environment or compromise safety.

    Furthermore, regular monitoring and enforcement of these regulations are crucial. This ensures compliance and encourages continuous improvement in environmental and safety standards in the cargo transportation sector.

    Challenges and Considerations

    • Limited resources: Many African governments face constraints in budget and expertise to invest adequately in infrastructure and implement these policies.
    • Corruption and inefficiency: Bureaucracy, corruption, and inefficient institutions can impede progress and undermine the effectiveness of government interventions.
    • Capacity building: Building the capacity of government agencies and stakeholders involved in the transport sector is crucial for the effective implementation of policies and programs.

    Overall, the role of government in African cargo transportation is critical for creating an enabling environment for efficient, sustainable, and inclusive trade and economic growth. By prioritizing infrastructure development, implementing effective policies, facilitating trade, and promoting sustainability, governments can unlock the immense potential of Africa’s cargo transportation sector and drive inclusive development across the continent.

  • How African Car Owners Can Access Global Spare Parts Markets

    How African Car Owners Can Access Global Spare Parts Markets

    Here is How You Can import Spare Parts to Africa from UAE, Europe & USA

    Car owners in Africa often face challenges when it comes to sourcing high-quality spare parts for their vehicles. In many cases, the local market might not offer the required parts, or they may be overpriced. Fortunately, importing car spare parts from different parts of the world can be a viable solution. In this article, we will explore import options from Europe, America, and the UAE, and provide helpful sources, including Partfinder UAE, to guide African car owners in the process.

    1. Importing Car Spare Parts from the UAE:
      When importing car spare parts from the UAE, African car owners have several reputable sources and platforms to explore. Utilizing resources like Partfinder UAE, along with engaging with local distributors and using popular online marketplaces, will increase the chances of finding the required spare parts at competitive prices. Remember to conduct thorough research, verify the authenticity of the parts, and be mindful of shipping costs and customs regulations to ensure a successful and satisfying importing experience.
      1.1. Leverage Partfinder UAE:
      Partfinder UAE is a valuable online platform that connects buyers with sellers of car spare parts in the UAE. African car owners can use this platform to search for specific parts and compare prices from various suppliers. It simplifies the process of finding suitable spare parts and reliable sellers in the UAE.
      1.1.1. Inquire About International Shipping:
      Contact the sellers through Partfinder UAE to inquire about international shipping to Africa options. Some sellers might offer shipping to African countries, ensuring a smooth importing process. Clarify shipping costs, estimated delivery times, and any necessary paperwork or customs procedures.
      1.1.2. Ensure Secure Payment Options:
      Opt for secure payment methods to protect yourself from potentially fraudulent activities. Use trusted payment gateways that offer buyer protection for added peace of mind. Avoid making payments through insecure channels or sharing sensitive information.
      1.2. Dubai Yellow Pages and Local Distributors:
      For car owners who prefer to work with local distributors in the UAE, exploring the Dubai Yellow Pages or other local business directories can lead to discovering authorized dealers and distributors of car spare parts. These companies often have experience in international shipping and can facilitate the export process.
      1.3. Popular Online Marketplaces:
      Many popular online marketplaces, such as eBay and Amazon, also operate in the UAE. African car owners can search for specific car spare parts on these platforms and filter their search results to display sellers based in the UAE. Some of these sellers might offer international shipping options.
      1.4. UAE Automotive Forums and Communities:
      Engaging with UAE-based automotive forums and communities can be an effective way to connect with local car enthusiasts and experts. These forums often have members who are knowledgeable about sourcing car spare parts and can provide valuable recommendations and insights.
      1.5. Export Services and Freight Forwarders:
      Consider partnering with export services or reputable freight forwarders with experience in shipping car spare parts from the UAE to Africa. These companies can handle the logistics, customs paperwork, and shipping arrangements on your behalf, ensuring a smoother importing process.
    2. Importing Car Spare Parts from Europe:

    2.1. Identify the Required Parts:
    Accurate identification of the needed spare parts is crucial before starting the import process. Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle or seek advice from trusted mechanics or car specialists to ascertain the specific components required.
    2.2. Research Reputable European Suppliers:
    Europe is home to numerous reputable suppliers of car spare parts. To find reliable suppliers, conduct online research and read customer reviews. Look for suppliers with a proven track record of reliability, quality products, and excellent customer service.
    2.3. Verify Certifications and Standards:
    Ensure that the European supplier complies with relevant industry certifications and standards. Look for suppliers who hold ISO certifications, as these indicate adherence to international quality standards. This step ensures that the purchased spare parts meet the required quality and safety standards.
    2.4. Consider Shipping Costs and Times:
    Contact the supplier to inquire about shipping costs and estimated delivery times to your location in Africa. Take into account these costs when comparing different suppliers to find the most cost-effective option. Sometimes, although the part prices may be reasonable, high shipping costs can significantly impact the total expenses.
    2.5. Customs and Import Duties:
    Before making any purchases, research the customs and import duties applicable to importing car spare parts into your African country. Being aware of these regulations will help you calculate the total cost of importing and avoid any unexpected charges during customs clearance.

    1. Importing Car Spare Parts from America:

    3.1. Utilize Online Marketplaces:
    Online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and Rock Auto are excellent platforms for finding a wide range of car spare parts. They often offer international shipping options, making it easier for African car owners to purchase from American sellers.
    3.2. Cross-Reference Part Numbers:
    To ensure compatibility, cross-reference the part numbers of the required components with those listed by the American sellers. This step minimizes the risk of purchasing incorrect parts and saves you from the hassle of returning or exchanging them later.
    3.3. Explore Freight Forwarding Services:
    Some American sellers may not directly ship to African countries or might have limited shipping options. In such cases, consider using reputable freight forwarding services that can receive the package in the US and forward it to your African address. Freight forwarders can consolidate multiple purchases, potentially reducing shipping costs.
    3.4. Be Mindful of Import Taxes and Customs Regulations:
    Before finalizing the purchase, familiarize yourself with your country’s import taxes and customs regulations to avoid any unexpected fees or delays during customs clearance.
    3.5. Authenticity and Genuine Parts:
    Be cautious of counterfeit products when purchasing from online marketplaces. Stick to well-established sellers with a strong reputation for providing authentic and genuine car spare parts.
    Conclusion:
    Importing car spare parts from Europe, America, and the UAE can significantly benefit African car owners in acquiring high-quality components at competitive prices. By following the guidelines provided in this article and utilizing reputable platforms like Partfinder UAE, car owners can navigate the import process with confidence and improve the maintenance and performance of their vehicles. Always stay informed about the latest import regulations and seek assistance from professionals if needed to ensure a successful importing experience. Remember, thorough research and careful planning are essential for a smooth and successful spare parts importation process.

  • Comparing Container, Breakbulk, and Air Freight Shipping Methods for Cargo to Africa

    Comparing Container, Breakbulk, and Air Freight Shipping Methods for Cargo to Africa

    Introduction:

    Shipping cargo to Africa presents a unique set of challenges, as the continent features diverse infrastructure, varying customs regulations, and a wide range of logistical requirements. When selecting the most suitable shipping method, businesses must consider cost, transit time, and the goods’ nature. This blog post will delve into the specifics of the container, break-bulk, and air freight shipping methods, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of African cargo transportation.

    Container Shipping



    Container shipping, the most popular method for transporting goods globally, involves loading cargo into large, standardized metal containers, typically measuring 20 or 40 feet in length. These containers are then stacked onto large vessels specially designed to transport them.

    Container Shipping Advantages

    Cost-effective: Container shipping is often more economical than other methods, especially for large goods. The standardization of containers allows for efficient loading and unloading processes, reducing labor costs.

    Security: Goods are securely sealed within the containers, reducing the risk of theft or damage during transit.

    Versatility: Containers can accommodate various types of cargo, including dry goods, refrigerated items, and even vehicles.

    Container Shipping Disadvantages

    Limited accessibility: Not all African ports can handle large container vessels. In such cases, businesses may need to rely on transshipment or use smaller feeder vessels, potentially increasing costs and transit time.

    Infrequent sailings: Some African routes may have less frequent container shipping services, leading to longer waiting times between sailings.

    Breakbulk Shipping



    Breakbulk shipping is a traditional method of transporting cargo that only fits within standard containers. This method involves loading individual pieces or units of cargo directly onto a vessel, often using cranes or other specialized equipment.

    Breakbulk Shipping Advantages

    Flexibility: Breakbulk shipping is ideal for transporting large or irregularly shaped cargo, such as machinery, heavy equipment, or bulk commodities like grain and minerals.

    Customization: Breakbulk vessels can be designed or adapted to accommodate various cargo types, providing tailored solutions for unique shipping requirements.

    Breakbulk Shipping Disadvantages

    Higher costs: Breakbulk shipping often involves more manual labor and specialized equipment, leading to increased costs compared to container shipping.

    Longer transit times: The loading and unloading processes for breakbulk cargo can be more time-consuming, resulting in extended transit times.

    Air Freight



    Air freight is transporting goods via air cargo carriers on dedicated cargo planes or in the cargo hold of commercial passenger flights.

    Air Freight Advantages

    Speed: Air freight is the fastest shipping method available, with transit times, typically ranging from a few hours to a few days, depending on the destination.

    Reliability: Air freight services generally operate on strict schedules, providing greater predictability and reducing the risk of delays.

    Air Freight Disadvantages

    High costs: Air freight is often significantly more expensive than other shipping methods, particularly for heavy or bulky cargo.

    Limited capacity: Air cargo carriers have strict weight and size restrictions, which may only be suitable for some types of cargo.

    Conclusion

    When shipping cargo to Africa, the optimal method depends on factors such as the nature of the goods, budget, and time constraints. Container shipping is a cost-effective solution for most types of cargo, while breakbulk shipping offers flexibility for oversized or irregularly shaped items. Air freight may be the best option for time-sensitive shipments, albeit at a higher cost. Ultimately, businesses must carefully evaluate their specific needs and choose the shipping method that best aligns with their objectives.

  • You can Send Goods to Africa from UK by Using Sea and Air Cargo Service

    You can Send Goods to Africa from UK by Using Sea and Air Cargo Service

    The United Kingdom has been trying to export more to these countries and for this trade related authorities engage with countries

    Cargo companies help businesses to grow and for this, they deliver cargo in different markets. It also grows the business of freight forwarding. Goods are reached to different markets either through sea or air cargo and traders use either of them as per their demand Cargo to Africa from UK comprises of different types of goods and volume of cargo can be increased further.

    For this trade between the UK and African countries is of pivotal importance. The United Kingdom has been trying to export more to these countries and for this trade related authorities engage with countries of the continent. Door to door and from door to port services are offered by international cargo companies.

    cargo to africa
    cargo to africa

    These companies are present in great number in the UK, their experience also helps traders to send goods to a destination. Some newly founded cargo companies have earned good repute due to the use of technology and efficient delivery record. For the convenience of the clients, these companies offer access to their shipments through digital devices.

    They can see the rates, book a consignment and track their shipments. Confidence in a service provider is increased in this way so more and more service providers now focusing much on clients’ convenience. Courier companies are ahead in this regard and they offer you the flexibility of delivery time and day. Mostly weekend is most suitable if you want to receive a parcel at home so you can schedule the delivery according to your convenience.

    Africa is considered as a potential market for foreign goods

    There are different forum established by the industry to evaluate and reward the cargo companies. It is an encouragement for all the service providers to invest in innovation and the use of technology. The progress and changes are aimed at enhancing the quality of service.

    Annual gathering and sharing of experiences also provide an opportunity for the participants to learn about the experiences of others. The future of the cargo industry and present sentiment also discussed. Africa is considered as a potential market of foreign goods and all industrial countries want to enhance their share in this market. Sea cargo to Africa is cheap goods transportation option and widely used.

    E-commerce has emerged as one of the biggest client of the cargo companies and for delivery of online shopped goods. Online seller contract with the service providers to ensure timely delivery of online bought items. In this connection, experienced companies are preferred because they know the demands of buyers and know how to handle different situations.

    Customs clearance is important and if you have staff dedicated to this service at different ports you can offer door to door service to the clients. Receivers are made free with this kind of delivery service and the whole procedure is done by the cargo company.

    With a vast knowledge of customs procedures, staff at cargo companies can offer guidance to the clients in connection to different products. Clients’ reviews are the very important and positive word of mouth can do the trick. New clients usually see how the service users rate a service.

    There are different options available to the consignees

    Sellers send their goods to big companies’ warehouses and for this, they also need cargo services. From these warehouses again goods transportation take place. In this way, the cargo industry is getting sizeable business from e-commerce.

    ocean-freight
    ocean-freight

    Air cargo to Africa delivers your consignment in days so if you want quick delivery and increased safety then air cargo service in the UK can be engaged. There are different options available to the consignees so they can select the most suitable. Health and medical supply are critical and the current pandemic has made it extremely important.

    The supply of vaccine requires special arrangements and air cargo service in the UK is quite capable of providing this service for Africa and the rest of the world. Cargo companies in the UK offer round the clock medical supply facilities in all parts of the world so they are serving humanity.

    You also get assistance from the expert staff in this connection as they will inform you if any special requirement needs to be fulfilled for medical supplies. The competitive price of services is a great appeal for clients and you can have more business by offering good rates.

    The cargo industry has progressed much over the years

    Vehicles are shipped frequently to Africa from the UK and it is carefully executed by UK cargo companies. All different types of vehicles are booked for Africa including cars. Clients share their demands and the cargo companies respond accordingly.

    The budget of clients also very important and cargo companies offer a solution, matching the budget. If documents reach earlier than the vehicle then you can easily receive the vehicle in Africa. For vehicle transportation from the UK to Africa, container service is the most secure option.

    The price of container service is a bit high but you feel secure. The cargo industry has progressed much over the years and in coming years further, improvement is expected. This would increase efficiency and clients’ satisfaction. Some cargo companies cover the whole continent so you can send your consignment to any address in Africa. Such service providers are specialized in providing cargo service for Africa.

  • Cargo to Africa; Improve Yourself With New Activities

    Cargo to Africa; Improve Yourself With New Activities

    Creation of new horizons for remote corners policy

    The growing tension between China and the US’s two rival countries has given ample space for devastating shipments. The African air cargo market is the main market for perishable exports. It is interesting to know that the African continent is rapidly transforming with digital transformation through a significant increase in infrastructure and liberalism. As a result, it has strengthened air cargo to Africa.

    It is also well suited to the economies of African countries that are resolving themselves by stating the way they work with old infrastructure.

    How much does cargo contribute to Africa?

    Statistically, Africa accounts for 1.7% of air cargo. However, there is a tremendous growth of African carriers. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has seen rapid growth over the past two years. In addition, efficiency will increase by 17.1% due to healthy trade and investment connections.

    To ensure this, ICAO Council President Dr Olumuyawa Benard Alio warned that only strong air connectivity in Africa could lead to sustainable development of Africa. It is very clear, he stressed, that this is only possible in reasonable and maximum investment.

    How China Promotes Cargo to Africa

    China has taken advantage of this investment gap as the world’s strongest emerging economy and has already spent a significant amount of time in the cargo sector.

    The $ 60 billion investment from China in Africa’s cargo sector is a big plus. And with this investment, African countries are strengthening their infrastructure and fleet. This has contributed greatly to Africa’s cargo industry, seen by major African countries in South Africa, Mauritius, Ghana, Nigeria and Ethiopia as efforts to improve cargo facilities and related services.

    African Air Cargo benefits greatly from this. Africa’s minority share in cargo makes it an excellent place to grow further from cargo in the African region. Being an abundant port, Africa relies heavily on its ports. It is important that one third of African countries occupy land and have exclusive access to the maritime global market.

    What is being communicated?

    African countries such as South Africa export diamond and gold to industrialized countries. It is very important to carry precious metals in high security handbags. Africa’s small share of global trade has been widely debated, and economists have argued that this low share of Africa is due to insufficient income, poor geography, local constraints on international trade, and increased transportation costs and low infrastructure.

    Due to the Experts believe that the shipping delivery period is important because increasing the shipping duration increases the cost of the inventory process. For example, readable materials such as delicate items and newspapers such as ornamental plants and flowers definitely need quick delivery. What’s more, the stock in transit must be in the required amount.

    Ground Reality and Future Projections

    The cargo industry operates in partnership with various stakeholders or is known as a major source of freight services. Certainly, these stakeholders provide the basic and convenient infrastructure to implement cargo services for each and every operation of the cargo company, and without it, the cargo industry means nothing.

    For example, the company plays a major role in this case with airports around the world, providing a basic and expansive platform for the implementation of cargo carriages and deliveries.

  • New Developments in UK Africa Trade

    In what direction the two trading partners are heading?

    Africa UK trade has a long history to trace back. Both are at present members of EU and are one of the leading traders, not only to each other but also with other countries as well. With Brexit underway, the situation has changed and there are some uncertainties as well as confirmations from both the side. But what will happen in actual situation is a question that will be answered only when the Brexit will happen in 2019. There are some changes as well as on the way agreements that are to be finalized but not without considering many more matters that are coming in the way.

    Both the sides are trying hard to have agreements that do not hinder in the way of trade with other parties as it will not be in favor of UK as well as Africa especially South Africa as being a major trading partner. Africa does not want to disturb its relations with EU as well as UK and it is creating a difficult situation for Africa.

    EPA and ongoing Discussions:

    EPA is not an ordinary agreement for Africa. It took almost ten years to negotiate the treaty and six Southern African countries are a part of this. Due to this agreement, the access to EU for South Africa in agricultural products has improved in return of recognition of geographical indications on European food stuff etc.

    What South Africa want is that whatever agreement between UK cargo and Cargo to Africa is going to be, it follows the line of hard-earned EPA. As it is Brexit UK and not Africa is exiting European Union, the situation is complicated and Africa has to maintain a balance between the two as it does not want to leave any of them. British High Commissioner to South Africa Nigel Casey has confirmed that they are not going to allow any gap in the agreement and make it fall away for Africa.

    Time Conscious:

    UK officials are also concerned about time frame before Brexit. The agreements that are going to take place not only concern South Africa but also other southern African countries that are involved in the EPA.

    So, if the talks are going to commence, they have to spread to all the countries and not only to one and the officials intend to do it necessarily. But until unless Britain is a part of EU, these agreements cannot be made effective or reach a final point.

    What more to add:

    Casey said that EPA only dealt with trade of products, but if the talks are going to be only between the two then chances of including services are also there. These services form a large part of UK and African economies and will prove to be beneficent for both.

    But there are constraints that hinder the easy flow of from one end to another and discussions are taking place on the two options present to ease them. One is whether to make government-to-government agreement or the ones that are sector specific. Every effort is being done to achieve arrangements to avoid any gap in the smooth flow of trade during the transfer.

  • Cargo Trade Agreements Between UK and South Africa

    Especial emphasis is being put on the future of trade relations after Brexit

    South Africa is the largest trade partner of UK and the second largest in EU. With such a big trade relations to both the sides, there are certainly insecurities that are leading to more and more meetings between the two countries regarding the arrangements that are to be made to lessen the effect of Brexit on trade of both the countries. An interim arrangement was being discussed based on the already existing EU partnership deal. This is to ensure that the transfer will not hurt the trading relation and the procedure will be smooth and without complications to streamline Cargo to Africa. Because both are strong trade partners, such actions are obligatory to ensure harmony.

    An Intelligent Decision is needed:

    What is expected from both the sides is to take this time period as a fruitful era. There are still two years before Brexit and lot will be decided by UK as well the trading partners. There will be a total loss if there is any decision that can harm these trade relationships in any way. Both UK and South Africa are in very good positions to reach a point where both can prosper more in trade and make most out of the situation.

    The increasing meetings and revising agreements are very important steps and both the countries should act wisely to reach an interim agreement that will support the trade and cargo from both means like sea cargo and air cargo, while the situation becomes clear after a hard or soft Brexit whatever the case is. Countries are trying to secure their relations with UK to make things move as they are and not have any harm due to the process.

    What is UK expecting of South Africa?

    Many of us always talk about the other countries but what about UK? While others are making arrangements to secure their ends, UK also demands something in return. There are tariff rates which are fixed for the domestic commodities to save them from the competitive imports in the economic partnership agreement of EU. Lower tariff is applied on those products to come in but in certain quota, any volume above the decided one is considered prohibitive traffic.

    UK wants SA to discuss this point that tariff rate volumes remain the same and not decrease after Brexit. EU has not increased them even if there is an increase in the members so the expectation form the UK side is that South Africa will not reduce it when the time comes.

    Ensuring uninterrupted Trade:

    Because of such strong ties, none of the two parties want to have a negative effect of Brexit on the trade side. The interim arrangement will ensure that the trade between the two countries remains smooth and uninterrupted. A halt in the trade will mean a heck of loss for both the sides.

    The increasing meetings and this arrangement also hints towards how important are these two countries for each others trade. The South African Customs Union (SACU) has already sent a letter to UK to make a suggestion of discussions between the two nations to establish an interim agreement to avoid any distasteful experiences for both sides in terms of trade.

  • Popular Ports of Africa

    Trade in the present time is an important business

    As the technology has evolved, many other things are automated to the next level. Among these is the importance of trade which has become an important factor in the increase of income and having an access to the world market. There is no similar situation in the markets of different parts of the world and what is being on sale in one part may not be present in the other. To get access to the product, deals are made so that the spread of a product globally can be made possible by exchanging goods with money.

    Africa is a very fruitful continent and 90% of its trade is being carried out by sea cargo. That’s why, sea ports are very important and special emphasis should be made to get the most out of it. There are some very busy ports in Africa which are very important due to their geological placement. These ports must be made secure and extended so as to increase the trade not only in South Africa but also throughout Africa.

    Port of Durban:

    The Port of Durban is situated in South Africa and it is considered as the busiest port in the sub-Saharan Africa. It is said to handle approximately 31.4 million tons of cargo to Arica each year.

    This does not only make it the busiest port in Africa but also in the southern hemisphere. African trade depends mostly on South Africa and it is the major trade state that is mainly responsible for the economy of the continent.

    Port Mombasa:

    This port is situated on the waters of Kenya in between South Africa as well as Gulf of Aden. Importance of this port can be seen due to its position and it also connects 80 ports all around the world.

    The port not only connects globally with sea ports but also there is a railway line stretching from Uganda to Tanzania. This port is also very important and handles huge cargo traffic and marks second place in the world.

    Port of Djibouti:

    This is another important port which is situated in the city of Djibouti. The port is special due its location in one of the busiest trade paths; it links Europe and Far East, where even Chinese Government is directly involved in the port.

    The trade point is not only important for its trade traffic but also it has naval importance as various nations use it as a military outpost.

    Port of Lagos:

    This port is controlled by Nigerian Ports Authority. This port is crucial to Nigeria as there is a major portion of GDP that this port contributes to the economy.

    This port performs many operations including berthing, cargo handling and stacking areas. The number of cargo traffic can be estimated by the volume of money it generates for the country.

    Port of Abidjan:

    The port is operational since 1950s in Ivory Coast. This port is considered very important for the transshipment and is a busy port in the West Africa.

    The port not only offers cargo shipments, but also it is a fishing port. The port handled 22 million of cargo containers which is a big number.

  • UK Reaffirming Trade Relations with Africa

    A new trade relation is said to trigger after Brexit

    Africa is not a highly developed region. Most areas in this region are underdeveloped and rely highly on foreign aid. So it can be said that the extreme conditions in African states decide the trade, especially in areas that are largely affected by draught and malnutrition due to absence of enough food. The higher spectrum is represented by South Africa that is the leading trade body in the region, while areas like Burundi have the least trading power.

    Countries that rely heavily on imports and cargo services to run the state are always insecure due to changing deals internationally; so is the case with Africa. The uncertain conditions prevailing after the announcement of Brexit has raised questions and UK is leaving no stone unturned to convey a firm message of no harm to be established on its relationship with African countries.

    Internal Issues:

    African extremity struck regions always faces the misfortune of not having enough food and life facilities to move forward. The internal problems grip the region so tightly that coming out becomes impossible and foreign aid becomes the only means for relief. So the African countries which are underdeveloped, import medicines as well as food items to survive such a tough life.

    These problems hinders the way for this region to develop fully as it is rich in its natural resources but without a proper infrastructure and policy, the people cannot fully take advantage of its own wherewithal. Machinery and equipments are regularly imported with the notion of having access to its resources with the help of these equipments.

    Brexit and the uncertain trade environment answered:

    UK has never denied having a positive and growing trade relation with Cargo to Africa. It has been cleared that Brexit means exit with Europe and not with Africa. This clearly indicates that in no condition UK has the idea of breaking ties with commonwealth countries in Europe. The delegation to Africa has affirmed that it will not end its commitment to the continent. Furthermore delegations to different regions in the continent are being sent by the African states so that a positive message can be conveyed of the firm relations of UK and the region.

    Relations with South Africa:

    The UK government has laid special emphasis on its relations with South Africa which is its largest economic and political partner in the continent. As being the main contributor in the economy of Africa and a developed region in this continent, it attracts trade from around the world. This region is very important for the economy of this continent. The present Prime Minister of UK has said very clearly that her government does not intend to become isolated from the world and follow the foot steps of others.

    Importance given to Africa by UK:

    The importance of trade between Africa and UK can be clearly seen by the visit of UK officials to the continent especially South Africa.

    This was a short visit and was carried out immediately after the announcement of Brexit. The other two countries that were visited on that short trip were Japan and South Korea. These and future tours were meant to confirm strong ties of UK globally.

  • Future Prospects of Cargo Handling for Africa

    Air Freight from England to Africa will be double in coming years

    The old standard procedures have been replaced by the ways modern technology is involving and new operating rules. Now almost every single product can be transported to every part of the globe wherever a particular item is in demand.

    People related to Air cargo business have taken it to such levels that allow traders of all types to find new markets in different regions for items they have been dealing in.

    In pursuance of a cool chain with temperature maintaining facility from end to end has been provided on different airports for medical science products and other perishables. To cut short the time required for operations trained and well-equipped workers are today present at every stage.

    Due to wide scope in the field many new companies have joined the business so a sense of competition is also there to serve better the clients to retain their share of business.

    Potential of the continent

    Cargo from United Kingdom to African nations are on the rise as the continent is habitat of fifteen percent total world population and air freight share is just three percent. So there is huge potential that need to be exhausted. The recent repot of international air transport agency about African air cargo to and from Asia has suggested notable growth as compared to previous year first month.

    In the same way business sector of England is ready to find out areas where it can stuff its products. Introduction of new products through modern means of communications in the region has created reasonable demand so there is good amount of freight forwarding activity both in seas and by air for many countries of this land mass.

    Free Trade Zone in Africa

    One of the big steps that are part of plan is making Africa free trade zone and it would further improve relations with Commonwealth countries of the continent. After leaving the economic union of Europe such undertakings were likely to be initiated by the country that has competitive industrial base. With aforesaid countries, England has been planning to create a zone that has no barriers of trade so that could become hub of business activities in the continent.

    Trade relations with developing nations have become much more important particularly after Brexit. This plan of free zone would engage twenty-six countries in total, so a good presence of region certainly makes it a success for everyone.

    Renewal of Economic Agreements with African Nations

    With such trade agreements, there will be great increase in cargo services transportation through both means air and sea. The present resources allocated to this route for goods transportation would also become too little and hopefully new companies will join in to fill the vacuum.

    When United Kingdome joined European Union, it came out of all agreements that it would renew now for its future business. Thus there is much more to do on part of UK to sustain its exports and industrial output. That is why the authorities have been acting proactively to make sure that there will be no issue with companies having base in the country.