Hong Kong will be a three-runway airport by 2023

Hong Kong's government has approved a third runway for the city’s international airport.
Expected to open by 2023, it will help the island maintain its status as the world’s busiest air cargo hub and help Hong Kong maintain its position against other Asian rivals in China and Singapore.
The HK$141.5bn (US$18.2bn) scheme will be funded from internal funds, borrowings and user fees, including a HK$180 (US$23.20) additional passenger fee.
The new runway would be to the north of the airport and will be for landings only. It is expected to boost the airports capacity from 68 flights an hour to 102.
The news was welcomed by local carriers. Cathay Pacific chief executive Ivan Chu said his airline “reiterated its unequivocal support for the development of a third runway which it believes is necessary to maintain the long-term competitiveness of Hong Kong as a premier aviation hub".
Chu said the announcement was “a remarkable milestone" in the third runway project and welcomed the endorsement by the Executive Council.
He added: "Building third runway is the only viable way for our airport to keep pace with future growth and to continue to support Hong Kong’s pillar industries in tourism, international trade, logistics, and finance and professional services.”
Joe Ng, vice chairman of the Board of Airline Representatives in Hong Kong, which represents 76 airlines, said he believed the third runway would “strengthen Hong Kong’s status as one of Asia’s premier aviation hubs.”
He added: “Aviation is an industry that contributes some  eight per cent to Hong Kong’s GDP and accounts for eight per cent of employment in the city; the third runway is urgently needed to maintain the airport’s competitive strength and to ensure continued growth for the benefit of Hong Kong.”

Source : http://www.aircargonews.net/news/single-view/news/hong-kong-will-be-a-three-runway-airport-by-2023.html

Continue

FedEx sees peak season bounce

US parcels giant FedEx saw third quarter revenues up four per cent to $11.7bn.
“We had a very successful peak season as volumes grew across all transportation segments, and our profit improvement programs are moving ahead as scheduled,” said Fred Smith, FedEx Corp chairman, president and chief executive officer.
Operating results for the third quarter ended February 28 improved due to volume and base yield growth in all three transportation segments of ground, freight and express.
There was also a “significant net benefit” from fuel, benefits from profit improvement program initiatives, a lower year-over-year weather impact and reduced pension expense.
These improvements were partially offset by higher variable incentive compensation accruals.

Source : http://www.aircargonews.net/news/single-view/news/fedex-sees-peak-season-bounce.html

Continue

Joint Effort by Cargo Tracking and Loss Detention Groups to Prevent Freight Theft

US – Covert cargo and vehicle theft detection, recovery, and loss prevention company, SC-integrity (LoJack SCI) and perishable and high value shipment tracking firm Locus Traxx Worldwide, have announced an alliance which aims to both advance and bolster supply chain and cargo shipment security and efficiency. Together, the organisations plan to release a series of bundled tracking and information solutions based on Locus ‘SmartTraxx™ GO’ tracking technology, which monitors both the security and condition of the freight in real-time. LoJack SCI CEO, Ted Wlazlowski, said:

"We couldn't be happier with this collaboration. This venture will allow both Locus Traxx and LoJack SCI to support the latest generation of communication and geo-localisation technologies, while continuing to provide high value service to customers. Our market is ready for the flexibility and ease in providing a disposable tracking solution; and, together with Locus Traxx, we intend to exceed expectations for reliable, low cost visibility and control."

Locus Traxx will cooperate in providing information to and through the LoJack SCI sponsored Supply Chain Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Supply Chain-ISAC). Food is the primary target product for freight theft, accounting for 27% of recorded sector robberies in the US last year, leading to the industry facing increasing regulatory pressures from the FDA. The ability for Supply Chain-ISAC participants to obtain an enhanced view of potential risk or efficiency opportunities in the food, produce and cold chain markets could be extremely beneficial.

Source: http://www.handyshippingguide.com/shipping-news/joint-effort-by-cargo-tracking-and-loss-detention-groups-to-prevent-freight-theft_5605

Continue

US postpones 100 per cent container scanning US postpones 100 per cent container scanning

FORWARDERS are not surprised by the latest US climbdown on controversial plans to introduce 100 per cent ocean container screening.

Peter Quantrill, director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA), says it is “hardly surprising” to hear the news that the USA has delayed – for another two years – its demand that all cargo containers entering the USA must have been security scanned prior to departure from their origin stations.

The decision comes amid questions over whether the total scanning scheme is the best way to protect US ports.

Five years after Congress set a deadline requiring all US-bound shipping containers to be X-rayed overseas for nuclear weapons, US Customs officials now appear to have given up on the goal.

Screening 100 per cent of incoming containers would be nearly impossible to implement now, would cause huge delays and be less cost-effective than focusing only on suspicious cargo, observers say.

More than 30,000 ocean containers arrive at US ports each day and many foreign ports are just not physically equipped to comply.

“As BIFA has said repeatedly, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has consistently underestimated the enormity of the task in hand relative to the costs both to the US government and to foreign governments as well as, importantly, the limited ability of contemporary screening technology to penetrate dense cargo, or large quantities of cargo in shipping containers,” says Quantrill.

BIFA’s comments are in response to a letter from Thomas Carper, chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, which suggested that the use of systems available to scan containers would have a negative impact on trade capacity and the flow of cargo.

Quantrill notes: “Media reports suggest that the US government now doubts whether it would be able to implement the mandate of 100 per cent scanning, even in the long term, and it would appear that it now shares BIFA’s long-standing opinion that it is not the best use of taxpayer resources to meet the USA’s port security and homeland security needs.

"We have always said that expanding screening with available technology would slow the flow of commerce and drive up costs to consumers without bringing significant security benefits.”

BIFA says the US government should take an even bolder step – and repeal the original legislation.

“That would be the most appropriate way to address this flawed provision and allow the Department and industry to continue to focus on real solutions, including strengthened risk-based management systems to address any security gaps that remain in global supply chains.”

Source: http://www.aircargonews.net/news/single-view/news/us-postpones-100-per-cent-container-scanning.html

Continue

Air freight to grow at slower pace over next 20 years

Air freight traffic has grown at 5.3 per cent annually since 1980. Today goods worth $6.4 trillion travel by air — that’s 35 per cent of all world trade by value.

The growth rate is expected to be 4.9 per cent for the next 20 years. This means by the year 2023 traffic will double, according to V.K. Mathews, Executive Chairman of IBS Software, based in Technopark here.

Minimal profit

However, the profit margins are going to be nominal, Mathews said while speaking at the IBS Air Cargo Forum held at Istanbul in Turkey recently.

IBS Software is a leading provider of solutions to the travel, transport and logistics sectors.

Held every six months, the IBS Air Cargo Forum brings together leading cargo airlines where experts debate how advancements in technology can be leveraged to optimise cost of operations and improve yields.

Airlines have no control over their biggest cost element, fuel prices, Mathews said. Capacity utilisation was less than 50 per cent, leading to yield erosion.

“These statistics need to be kept in mind as we devise strategies on how we conduct business going forward,” he said.

Supply chain

“We need to move on and make the best of a demanding situation. For 90 per cent of the time in the supply chain, the cargo is just waiting to be moved. This is where efficiencies need to come in.”

A digitised shipper-to-consignee process has to become the standard to not only shorten the delivery time but also reduce unit cost, Mathews added.

The two-day conclave in Istanbul saw the unveiling of the iCargo portal by IBS Software, which would enable greater adoption of E-freight.

The first phase of the portal is expected to be complete by November and the second phase by the next financial year.

At least 70 experts representing airlines such as South African Airways, Qantas, Hawaiian Airlines, Lufthansa, All Nippon Airways, Nippon Cargo Airlines and Turkish Cargo, attended the event.

Istanbul as hub

They discussed key issues shaping the global air cargo industry and shared insights on strategies to address some of the critical challenges facing them.

Gary Hoyle of South African Airways was appointed the new Chairman of the IBS Cargo Forum.

Meanwhile, Temel Kotil, Chief Executive Officer, Turkish Airlines, said in his address Istanbul was ideally positioned to be the global connection point for air travel within 10 years.

While Europe’s traditional airports were struggling to add travellers as weak economies hurt demand, Istanbul was racing ahead with double-digit growth, thanks largely to the success of Turkish Airlines.

Kotil said Turkish Airlines was one of the fastest growing airlines in the world and well-placed to have 120 million passengers and 450 aircrafts by the year 2023.

Source: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/air-freight-to-grow-at-slower-pace-over-next-20-years/article5141007.ece

Continue

DHL launches downtown mobile service

DHL-Sinotrans, the leading air express company in China, launched mobile stations indowntown Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen to provide companies with convenient pick-upfacilities.

The move will help optimize shipment routes for express items and extend cut-off times forcustomers, according to Wu Dongming,managing directorofDHL-Sinotrans International AirCourier Ltd andexecutive vice-president ofDHL Express Asia Pacific.

The mobile stations will also help tackle logistic issues in urban centers.

The DHL-Sinotrans, established in 1986 as a joint venture between DHL and China NationalForeign Trade Transportation (Group) Corp, has deployed eight vehicles in the three cities,extending the pick-up time by up to 60 minutes.

In Beijing, DHL-Sinotrans extends pick-up cut-off time for customers in areas around Guomaoand Zhongguancun. In Shanghai, the service is in place within the CBD area.

The vehicles use a 3G wireless signal to access the DHL’s operations network.

Source: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/business/2013-09/16/content_16973931.htm

Continue

AP set to become major sea, air logistics hub

Andhra Pradesh commanded a lion’s share of over 46 per cent in the total basket of new port projects being implemented across Indian maritime States.


The port sector in Andhra Pradesh is set to receive a significant boost with the decks cleared for setting up of a second major port in the State.

The proposal to set up the port, with an initial capacity of six berths in Prakasam district, has been already placed before the Union Cabinet — the initial investment will be of Rs 8,000 crore.

While the State Government will hold about 11 per cent stake in the project, the rest will be picked by the other PSUs such as NMDC and steel companies, who are the major users of the port facilities.

Once commissioned, the State will have two major ports, the other being the country’s premier Visakhapatnam port, and 14 non-major ports.

Having occupied the top slot amongst all major ports in terms of throughput for six consecutive years, it slipped to the second position, after Kandla, in the last two years.

However, the port, which currently handles about 70 million tonnes of cargo annually, is expanding its capacity, after which it could regain the lost position.

RS 3,500-CR EXPANSION

The Rs 3,500-crore expansion, which includes setting up three coal berths, a fertiliser berth, a liquid cargo berth and a general cargo berth, are all scheduled for completion within a year.

It is being implemented through the (public-private partnership) PPP route, with private sector port players such as Essar, involved in the capacity building exercise.

The three non-major ports in the State, Gangavaram, Kakinada and Krishnapatnam ports, together handle about 40 million tonnes.

The State Government has prepared a master plan that envisages increasing the capacity of its non-major ports to handle 175 million tonnes in 2020.

Immediate on the anvil are two ports at Machilipatnam and Nizampatnam, with 20 million tonnes and 15 million tonnes capacity respectively.

Gangavaram port is expanding its capacity from 15 million tonnes to 45 million tonnes by adding three multi-purpose berths and a coal handling terminal, which may be commissioned by next year.

Already the port has made waves in the industry due to the natural draft that it has, allowing bigger ships to anchor.

A recently study by trade body Assocham has pointed out that Andhra Pradesh commanded a lion’s share of over 46 per cent in the total basket of new port projects being implemented across Indian maritime States.

The State is currently implementing three projects worth Rs 20,000 crore in the ports sector under the PPP model as on April 2013, according to a study.

However, the study revealed that Andhra Pradesh comes fourth in terms of completion of port-related projects in the Eleventh Plan period — it completed three projects worth Rs 1,425 crore, with a share of 5.8 per cent in the completed projects pie.

Indeed, Andhra Pradesh is well on its way to becoming a major logistics hub not only in the realm of sea transportation but also air cargo.

AIR CARGO HUB

The Rajiv Gandhi International airport, located at the centre of the country’s production hub with a strong regional connectivity, is gaining ground as India’s first full-fledged air cargo hub.

With more than 20 important domestic and other South Asian cities located less then two hours of flying time away and South-East Asian cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok and Westa Asia cities four hours away, the airport is gearing up to cash in on this natural advantage.

Hyderabad airport currently handles over one lakh tonnes a year, which can be modularly scaled up to 1.5 lakh tonnes.

Lufthansa has already nominated the airport as its pharma hub and Cathay Pacific recently added Hyderabad with a twice-a-week Boeing 747 freighter service. Also Thai Airways and Blue Dart are offering main-deck through their Boeing 747-400F MD-11F and Boeing 757F freighters.

MORE AIRLINES

In addition, about 18 scheduled airlines, including 13 international, have cargo bases here, offering belly spaces, ranging from 2-3 tonnes in a 737 type aircraft and 20-25 tonnes in the larger 747 type aircraft.

The airport has a 33,000-tonne capacity dedicated temperature-controlled pharma zone, a 20-acre Free Trade Zone with warehousing and distribution and the integrated terminal operated by GMR and Menzies Aviation of the UK.

New initiatives include cool container links for pharma products, general and temperature-controlled warehouses within the cargo village, promotion of road feeder services and 24x7 customs clearance of cargoes.

Source: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/ap-set-to-become-major-sea-air-logistics-hub/article5071494.ece

Continue

Turkish Cargo expects continued global growth

Turkish Cargo, the freight service of Turkish Airlines, has ambitious plans for growth, and it seeks to continue the rapid expansion it has experienced over the last several years. The cargo carrier has averaged a 20 percent growth rate over the past five years.

“We have a strategy independent from market conditions,” says Mehmet Kizilkaya, Turkish Airlines’ regional cargo director for Central and Southern Europe. “Over the last 10 years, we are playing our own game. Of course, for the airfreight sector in general, the first half of 2013 has been challenging. Based on the positive indications, we believe that there will be a recovery during the second half of 2013 and for 2014.”

Turkish Airlines’ blueprint for growth includes a major expansion in its fleet, which now numbers 232 planes. That figure includes nine freighters and 45 wide-bodies. The Turkish fleet will grow majorly over the next three years, reaching 14 freighters, 71 wide-bodies and 338 total aircraft by the end of 2016.

Turkish Cargo is projecting growth around the globe, with concentration in Africa, the countries of the former Soviet Union, Asia and the Americas, but one region stands out for growth in 2013 and beyond.

“This is an Africa year for Turkish Airlines,” Kizilkaya says.

The southern region of Africa is “interesting,” and is a growing market for the carrier, Kizilkaya says. Central Africa, especially Nigeria, is a strong market, as are the traditional great markets of Algeria, Morocco and Libya.

“We have allocated resources to Africa and we believe in the future of Africa,” Kizilkaya says. “The developing nations will find that Turkish Airlines is a good partner and a good friend.”

The expansion into Africa has been brisk in 2013. Cargo flights to Khartoum, Sudan; Johannesburg; Nairobi; Entebbe, Uganda and Kigali, Rwanda, have been added to the existing network. Trucking networks have also been added in South Africa and Nigeria.

Kizilkaya, who moved over to the cargo department in 2012 after working eight years on the passenger side for Turkish Airlines, says several factors are contributors to the airline’s cargo success. These include Istanbul’s logistics-friendly central location, a young, energetic, well-educated staff and aggressive investment in the company’s infrastructure.

“We are optimistic, but we are more than just optimistic,” he says. “We plan everything. We develop five- and 10-year budget plans and each year, we work hard to achieve our targets.”

Turkish handles a wide range of cargo. Recent examples include:

• 14 tonnes of gold shipments between September and October 2012
• 130 tonnes of live fish between September and November 2012
• 730 tonnes of mobile phones and computers between September and November 2012
• 335 tonnes of hunting weapons between September and November 2012
• 10 tonnes of live bird between September and November 2012.

A major facility expansion is also in the works at Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport. Turkish Cargo is on track to open a new dedicated cargo terminal in the third quarter of 2014. The new terminal will be 42,500 square meters (457,725 square feet), have a 1.2 million tonne capacity and have a special cargo are of 5,250 square meters (56,542 square feet). The current building is 23,000 square meters (247,710 square feet), has a 500-tonne capacity and a special cargo area of 1,200 meters (12,924 square feet).

“With the increase in our fleet and destinations, our base should also coincide with the high demand from our customers,” Kizilkaya says. “The expansion will allow us to handle more special cargo such as live animals and valuables.”

Source: http://www.aircargoworld.com/Air-Cargo-News/2013/08/turkish-cargo-expects-continued-global-growth/2815102#sthash.62iXfM7j.dpuf

Continue

Ethiopian Airlines opens second cargo hub in Africa

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - Ethiopian Airlines, which operates the largest cargo services in Africa, is to open its second cargo hub in Africa, in partnership with the Lome-based ASKY Airlines, the Ethiopian flag carrier has announced on its website.

PANA reports Saturday that the new cargo hub will commence operations in September 2013 using a B737-400F aircraft.

For the past three years, Ethiopian and ASKY have partnered to serve the needs of passengers travelling within, to and from West and Central Africa through the Lomé hub.

Now, Ethiopian and ASKY are partnering in the establishment of a new cargo hub in the Togolese capital for the transportation of goods between West Africa and the rest of the world.

'This partnership will enable easy and convenient air transport of high value and perishable goods to and from West and Central Africa, thereby playing a critically essential role in the growth of trade and the economic development of the region,' Ethiopian Airlines said.

“As Africa continues with its fast economic growth, we are expanding our cargo network to serve the continent better and make air cargo accessible to more countries and more people,' it added.

Ethiopian Cargo, the cargo operations of the Airlines, serves 25 cargo destinations globally using six dedicated freighter aircraft.

Ethiopian Airlines, which has been in operation close to seven decades, is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. It is 100% owned by the Ethiopian government

ASKY, a passenger airline operating out of the Togolese capital, was founded in 2008 as a hub carrier for West and Central Africa, and it is 40% owned by Ethiopian Airlines.

Source: http://www.afriquejet.com/news/10782-ethiopian-airlines-opens-second-cargo-hub-in-africa.html

Continue

Airport Tries Attracting Freight and Logistics Customers and Incentivising Cargo Charters

Space to Expand Means it's Special Offer Time for Prospective Customers 


US – How to drum up more business? The eternal question for all companies whether in the logistics industry or any other, but a question especially relevant when economic times are hard. Advertising (even with the low rates charged by the Handy Shipping Guide) is one avenue but for Lambert St Louis International Airport (STL) the decision to position itself as the ideal cargo charter airport for the US Midwest firstly meant offering a range of incentives to attract more freight and now the airport has a new drive for cargo charter traffic under way.

The airport already provides new freighter operators with an 18 month waiver of landing fees and terminal rentals, based on a 2 year service agreement, whilst the State of Missouri also provides incentives to attract trade. Now STL is making itself more ‘charter-friendly’ by increasing the amount of charter-related information on its website. The website and supporting video also now feature details of local ancillary service providers such as cargo handlers, freight forwarders, customs brokers and specialist equipment operators. The aim is to simplify the flight planning process for charter brokers and operators.

STL strategy is actively to encourage all forms of cargo and logistics activity on and around the airport; this is fully supported by local government as a vitally-important driver of employment and economic prosperity for the region. The airport already generates an estimated US$3.6 billion annually for the 16-county area surrounding it and the airport has form, it was formerly a major cargo hub, as the home base of Trans World Airlines (TWA) until the latter's absorption into American Airlines in 2001 whilst geographically it is strategically placed, with seventy million people living within just five hundred miles.

The four active runways can handle the largest of aircraft, including the giant Antonov An225 and the adjacent cargo area stretches to 21,500 m2. When pressed Cargo Development Director, David Lancaster, waxes lyrical about the lack of night-time operating curfews, a 24/7 Customs presence, STL’s proximity to inland waterways and major highways and the lack of ramp congestion and slot constraints. He continues: 

“Attracting scheduled freighter services is a long process, especially in the currently unfavourable environment where freighters are being parked and frequencies reduced. We continue to work hard for this business, but tangible results could take some time yet. On the other hand, ad hoc charters continue to flourish. We already accommodate many such flights each year, and we are well suited and located to expand this important area of our business.

“Some of the leading charter operators already pick STL whenever they are allowed a choice of airport by their customers, and they speak highly of the ease of operating here. We now want the rest of the sector to get the message loud and clear that we love cargo charters!”

Source: http://www.handyshippingguide.com/shipping-news/airport-tries-attracting-freight-and-logistics-customers-and-incentivising-cargo-charters_4812

Continue

EXCLUSIVE-China approves first Argentine GMO corn cargo -sources

BUENOS AIRES, Aug 6 (Reuters) - China has approved its first shipment of genetically modified Argentine corn, Buenos Aires-based trade sources said on Tuesday, signaling that the Asian country may eventually import GMO crops from other producers like the United States.

The sources said Chinese health authorities cleared 60,000-tonnes of genetically modified (GMO) Argentine corn. The cargo was already headed inland to be used as hog and chicken feed.

Benchmark Chicago corn futures fell briefly after the market learned about the shipment. Argentina competes for market share with the United States, the No. 1 world corn exporter. But CBOT corn futures, which were already depressed due to good U.S. crop weather, ended the session mixed.

U.S. farmers could eventually benefit from China finally opening the door to GMO corn imports.

Demand for corn-fed pork and poultry has boomed in China as a growing middle class can afford a higher-protein diet.

The Argentine corn was imported by China's state-owned trading house COFCO and left Argentina about a month ago, said three Buenos Aires-based grains trading sources with knowledge of the situation.

The market knew since May that Argentine corn was headed to China. But questions lingered as to whether it would be approved for entry by the AQSIQ, China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

"The cargo has now been approved by the AQSIQ and the vessel has been discharged in China. The corn is officially imported and on its way to end customers," said a source at a major trading company in Buenos Aires, asking not to be named.

Chicago corn prices have fallen sharply from record highs last summer, and many analysts and traders expected prices to fall further on prospects for a U.S. bumper crop this season.

In contrast to last year, the world is expected to be awash with corn for the foreseeable future, keeping prices in check. Argentina's 2012/13 crop is nearly all harvested.

China is seen by corn futures traders as a wild card in their attempt to pencil in specific price projections.

Most Argentine corn is genetically modified. A small amount was allowed into China late last year as a test case under a China-Argentina GMO deal signed in February 2012.

There is broad scientific consensus that food on the market derived from genetically modified crops pose no greater risk than conventional food. However, advocacy groups argue the risks of GMO food have not been adequately identified. (Additional reporting by Sam Nelson in Chicago; Editing by Gerald E. McCormick, Jeffrey Benkoe and David Gregorio)

Source: http://www.trust.org/item/20130806201856-jygv5

Continue

Abu Dhabi cargo portal planned

Etihad Airport Services – Cargo (EAS-Cargo), a subsidiary of Etihad Airways, is working with the Singapore-based Cargo Community Network (CCN) to roll out a new information technology platform for the Abu Dhabi cargo community called Cargo Community Service (CCS). 

The service is designed to facilitate air cargo booking and shipment processes for Abu Dhabi-based freight forwarders and clearing agents, by linking them directly with air cargo carriers, ground handlers and third parties.

Also, under CCS, several comprehensive electronic cargo services for the Abu Dhabi air cargo community will be introduced utilizing a secure online portal called CCNhub. This includes Electronic Customs Manifest and Electronic Delivery Orders (eDO) functions, which Etihad says offers freight forwarders a timely and cost-effective way of submitting customs data electronically for cargo clearance, in addition to obtaining pricing information for printing delivery orders.

EAS-Cargo and CCN expect the new information technology platform services to go live in the fourth quarter of 2013.

“We are delighted to collaborate with EAS-Cargo as it sets about building an air cargo e-commerce environment and hub in Abu Dhabi,” said Teow Boon Ling, CCN’s CEO. “Having been in this region for the past few years, we have a good understanding of the local market requirements and practices, and with this exciting partnership we envisage the customized e-services we deliver to the Abu Dhabi cargo community will elevate the standard of air cargo services to the next level.”

Kevin Knight, Etihad Airways’ chief strategy and planning officer, said: “In line with Etihad Airways’ vision to promote Abu Dhabi as an international gateway, e-commerce has always been at the forefront of how we do business. Partnering with CCN to create a cargo technology platform will simplify business engagement for the entire Abu Dhabi cargo community by enabling all stakeholders including, freight forwarders, clearing agents, the terminal operator and the regulatory authorities to communicate on a single platform.”

Source: http://www.aircargoworld.com/Air-Cargo-News/2013/08/abu-dhabi-cargo-portal-planned/0614818#sthash.JHvNC3kI.dpuf

Continue

E-commerce boost for Abu Dhabi air cargo community

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airport Services — Cargo (EAS-Cargo), a subsidiary of Etihad Airways, is working with the Singapore-based Cargo Community Network (CCN) to roll out a new information technology platform for the Abu Dhabi cargo community called Cargo Community Service (CCS).

The one-stop service is designed to help air cargo booking and shipment processes for Abu Dhabi-based freight forwarders and clearing agents by linking them directly with air cargo carriers, ground handlers and third parties.

Furthermore, under CCS, a number of comprehensive electronic cargo services for the Abu Dhabi air cargo community will be introduced utilising a secure online portal called CCNhub. This includes Electronic Customs Manifest and Electronic Delivery Orders (EDO) functions, which offer freight forwarders a timely and cost-effective way of submitting customs data electronically for cargo clearance, in addition to obtaining pricing information for printing delivery orders.

EAS-Cargo and CCN expect the new information technology platform services to go live in Q4 2013.

Teow Boon Ling, CEO of CCN, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with EAS-Cargo as it sets about building an air cargo e-commerce environment and hub in Abu Dhabi.

“Having been in this region for the past few years, we have a good understanding of the local market requirements and practices, and with this exciting partnership, we envisage the customised e-services we deliver to the Abu Dhabi cargo community will elevate the standard of air cargo services to the next level.”

Kevin Knight, Etihad Airways’ chief strategy and planning officer, said: “In line with Etihad Airways’ vision to promote Abu Dhabi as an international gateway, e-commerce has always been at the forefront of how we do business. Partnering with CCN to create a cargo technology platform will simplify business engagement for the entire Abu Dhabi cargo community by enabling all stakeholders, including freight forwarders, clearing agents, the terminal operator and the regulatory authorities, to communicate on a single platform.”

Source: http://gulfnews.com/business/aviation/e-commerce-boost-for-abu-dhabi-air-cargo-community-1.1217443

Continue

EU to enter talks with China on ending its anti-dumping wine probe

CHINA and the European Union continue to negotiate anti-dumping probe of European wine exports which amounted to 257.3 million litres in 2012, valued at US$1 billion, half of which were from France. 

A decision to drop the wine anti-dumping probe is unconfirmed with a latest report from Reuters citing law firm's continued investigation into the Chinese industry association's complaint. However, discussion is a sign that Europe's most important trading partner is willing to ease tensions. 

The threat of duties on European wine from France, Italy and Spain appears a symbolic move, particularly centred on the two countries, France and Italy, most in favour of hefty fines on Chinese solar panels. 

Germany and Britain opposed the move with Germany as they would be hurt by tariffs in China, a major exporter of polysilicon, a raw material used in making solar-energy devices. 

Source: http://www.schednet.com/home/index.asp?area=seacargo

Continue

Piracy and its Effect on Global Trade

Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi, Director General of the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), contends that over the last ten years, the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea have reached high levels of piracy, lending to increased risk for the maritime shipping industry. At Tuesday’s international symposium entitled: ‘The Challenges of Piracy in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea,’ he highlighted the issue.

“The risks of such crimes taking place are exacerbated by links to organizations involved in international terrorism. Undoubtedly, the volume of global trade that passes through the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea makes this region an indispensable economic artery and maritime corridor for world security and stability,” he is quoted as saying.

However, aiming for a balance in his rhetoric, he also accentuated how the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have shown their commitment over the past ten years to reducing piracy and related activities in the region. These actions by the UAE have shown positive results, as well as a commitment to working against international terrorism and the collateral crime manifests itself as a bi-product of it.

Acknowledging the notion that piracy is largely a bi-product of weak government as well as ties to terrorist organizations, Dr. Al-Suwaidi is later quoted as saying: “In response to maritime piracy activities in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, the UAE is following a two-track approach. On the one hand it provides support for international efforts to confront maritime piracy gangs and on the other hand it supports political ties aimed at enabling the Somali state to control its territory.” Lending credit to the nations in the region for exhibiting their best efforts to curb the phenomenon of piracy is a major step forward into the realm of significantly cutting down on the problem.

The symposium held on Tuesday reflected the issue of piracy in the region, while also seeking solutions through various panels to combat the problem in the future. Overall, it will contribute to safer shipping lanes and economic activity in the region to be reflected in the coming months/years.

Source: http://globalseafreight.com/piracy-and-its-effect-on-global-trade/

Continue

GMS Offers Valuable Service for Retired Vessels

Being as controversial as it is, the practice of shipbreaking is relinquishing its role to more productive means of retiring used vessels. One of these means is ship recycling. One of the most prominent companies in this industry is GMS LeaderShip, a company with a global office disposition that conducts cash buys of ships in order to recycle them or sell them to other companies that do.

So far, GMS has negotiated the recycling of about 2,000 vessels, making them the premier company in the industry worldwide. They operate out of offices ranging from Bangledesh, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Shanghai to Dubai and Romania. GMS stands out due to its exceptional Corporate Social Responsibility Standards (CSR). It has exhibited these many times over through its deals with other companies and its innovative solutions to ship recycling.

GMS has achieved numerous milestones over the last three years. These include: negotiating more than 100 ship buying deals over the last nine years, delivered 300 ships in one year, developed a Green Ship Recycling Program, and delivered 24 vessels in one month. For more information on GMS’ accomplishments, visit the following site: http://www.gmsinc.net/gms/aboutus.php.

In the coming years, GMS will be a significant partner for companies who want to exercise CRS and engage in disposal of vessels in a way that will not be harmful to the environment or the people who work to dispose of them or recycle them.

Source: http://globalseafreight.com/gms-offers-valuable-service-for-retired-vessels/

Continue

Future Expansion of Malaysian Ports

Kuantan Port in Malaysia is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. A partnership between IJM Corp Bhd and its subsidiary Kuantan Port Consortium Sdn Bhd (KPC), as well as China’s Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group will facilitate the expansion.

The final design of the project is due in October; the partners have agreed to expand the facility with 16 extra meters of draft alongside the new facility’s berths to help support trade to and from the adjacent Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s major gateway near the capital, is also slated for expansion. Rumors of a third major port being built have also circulated via the Port Klang Authority; this would be in response to rising demand. Westport and Northport currently handle container traffic at Klang.

This presents an issue because these ports also have their own ambitions for expansion, being hindered in their endeavours as long as Port Klang continues to use their facilities. Northport’s plans to increase capacity include means of purchasing larger container-handling equipment, while Wesport plans to raise funds for new developments through a proposed initial public offering. Westport’s goal is to have this complete within the calendar year.

The expansion in Malaysia means more access of maritime shipping to the Asian market, especially due to the connections between Malaysia and China. This is an expansion project that companies will want to be familiar with in the coming months, as its development will affect access to the region.

Source: http://globalseafreight.com/future-expansion-of-malaysian-ports/

Continue

US: Stricter cargo security to cost airlines $2.8m a year

The new measures, which include more scanning, might usher an increase of the maximum prices for flying shipments or the introduction of a security fee on exporters.

The price for sending air freight overseas could soon rise due to stricter US security demands that could halt flights to the United States if not carried out. The companies affected would be El Al Israel Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines and US Airways.  

Source: http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=111688

Continue

Mideast carriers see freight volumes up 12.7pc

Middle Eastern airlines saw a continued robust expansion of demand in June with freight volumes growing by 12.7 per cent year-on-year, said a report released by the International Air Transport Association (Iata).

The consistent high growth in recent years, as the region’s carriers take advantage of the geographical position of the Middle East, has led to a substantial increase in its share of world air freight, it added.

African airlines recorded relatively slower growth in June, up 2.4 per cent on June 2012. This lags the year to date trend of 4.3 per cent, which is the second best of all regions, the report noted.

With economic growth in some key African markets looking strong, demand for high-value light weight consumer goods should rise, helping air freight volumes in the months to come, according to Iata.

The global air freight demand in June saw a 1.2 per cent year-on-year expansion in June according to the figures.

The figure, although weak, shows an improvement as compared to the 0.9 per cent year-on-year demand growth recorded in May and the 0.1 per cent growth realised over the first half of the year.

From May to June, global freight volumes increased by 0.8 per cent. A quarter of that improvement was captured by European airlines which saw a 0.9 per cent improvement in demand compared to May, and 2.6 per cent up compared to June 2012.

In contrast, Asia-Pacific carriers and North American airlines recorded year-on-year declines of 1.8 per cent and 1.2 per cent respectively.

“It’s too early to tell if June was a positive turning point after 18 months of stagnation. Air freight volumes are at their highest since mid-2011, but that good news needs to be tempered with a dose of reality. The global economic environment remains weak, and the basis for the acceleration of air cargo growth in June appears to be fragile,” said Tony Tyler, Iata’s director general and CEO.

Earlier this month Iata released the July edition of its Airline Business Confidence Index which showed nearly 58 per cent of respondents expecting freight volumes to increase over the next year.

A much greater percentage of respondents (72.2 per cent), however, expect no change in weak cargo yields despite their expected increase in demand over the same period. The macro-economic trend remains challenging.

Global economic trend was previously defined by robust emerging economies and stagnant growth in developed markets, the strongest improvements in business confidence are now occurring in some developed economies. The overall business confidence, which is a key indicator for air freight, continues to be weak.

Source: http://www.tradearabia.com/news/IND_240327.html

Continue

Slow growth in China hits Asia-Pacific air freight performance with June volume down 1.8%: IATA

CHINA'S ECONOMIC slowdown has dampened air-freight demand throughout Asia and the Pacific as regional carriers' business volume in June contracted 1.8 per cent year on year, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

In the first half, volume dropped 2.3 per cent.

To the organisation representing some 240 airlines comprising 84 per cent of global air traffic, this is the weakest performance among the regions and reflects the broad impact of the slowing growth of Chinese gross domestic product.

There are now fears that China will not achieve its 7.5-per-cent growth target this year, which may disrupt the global economic recovery. The Thai National Shippers Council forecasts only a 2-per-cent increase in the country's shipments to China this year. 

Elsewhere in the world, only airlines in North America suffered from contraction - 1.2 per cent in June and 1.6 per cent in the first half.

European carriers grew freight volumes by 2.6 per cent in June. Though in recession, the euro zone showed some signs of stability. For example, manufacturing activity contracted at its slowest pace in 16 months, easing pressure on key economies such as Italy, Spain and France. An improvement in consumer confidence is also likely to support demand for the sale of lightweight, high-value goods that are typically shipped by air.

While African airlines recorded relatively slower growth in June, up 2.4 per cent, Latin American airlines experienced a 7-per-cent increase. Middle Eastern airlines saw the biggest growth of demand, with freight volumes up by 12.7 per cent. The consistent high growth of airlines based in the Middle East in recent years is the result of their ability to take advantage of their geographical position.

In June, global air-freight demand expanded 1.2 per cent, higher than the 0.9-per-cent increase in May and the 0.1-per-cent growth in the first half.

While the global economic trend had been defined by robust emerging economies and stagnant growth in developed markets, the strongest improvements in business confidence are now occurring in some developed economies. Neverthe-less, overall business confidence, which is a key indicator for air freight, continues to be weak.

"It's too early to tell if June was a positive turning point after 18 months of stagnation," Tony Tyler, director-general and chief executive of IATA, said yesterday. "Air-freight volumes are at their highest since mid-2011, but that good news needs to be tempered with a dose of reality. 

"The global economic environment remains weak, and the basis for the acceleration of air-cargo growth in June appears to be fragile." 

Last month IATA released the July edition of its Airline Business Confidence Index, which showed nearly 58 per cent of respondents expecting freight volumes to increase over the next year. Despite this, 72.2 per cent expect no change in weak cargo yields despite their expected increase in demand over the same period. 

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/business/Slow-growth-in-China-hits-Asia-Pacific-air-freight-30211599.html

Continue