Transnet sets a new record for fruit export
A record number of 535 volumes of citrusy fruit was carried aboard shipping line Maersk.
THE Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) in Durban and Ngqura recently handled an export record of over 900 refrigerated containers packed with South Africa’s citrus fruits that were destined for the Far East markets.
According to General Manager of Sales and New Business Development Siyabulela Mhlaluka, this is a 40.6 per cent increase from the previous record of 535 volumes carried aboard shipping line Maersk.
This citrus season has already bagged a record of over 1700 reefers handled at the Port Elizabeth Container Terminal (PECT); another additional record is the movement of 600 reefers to the Middle East destinations in one week via the Durban Container Terminal (DCT), for the first time ever.
“We run a tight ship and circumstances have not always been favourable especially as we navigate Covid-19. But through integrated approaches with our customers and the commitment of an outstanding team, we’ve been able to put our best foot forward for both the customer and South Africa,” said Mhlaluka.
Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) is tracking ahead of a planned 13 per cent citrus export volume increase in 2020 across four of its 19 terminals.
In the face of Covid-19, actual citrus volumes are 29.4 per cent higher across all terminals combined when compared to prior year volumes.
This is the fifth record in the current calendar year, an achievement Mhlaluka attributes to solid planning, flexibility, agility and good customer interaction.
Twice, grape exports to the European market exceeded previous records through the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT).
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