Project Cargo Weekly - Yearbook 2022

It is time now for the 4th year in a row to publish our Project Cargo Weekly Yearbook. 2022 will certainly go down in history as quite a unique if not extremely golden year for most of the shipping industry. When it comes to the container liners they never had it so good with massive profits and the same for the MPP vessel operators who were also fully if not overbooked most of the time.

With the world slowly recovering from the demise of the COVID-19 pandemic we saw the markets slowly start to stabilize towards the end of 2022. For 2023 the prediction is that freight rates will sink back to pre-COVID levels and that is of course good news, not only for the freight forwarders –many of whom we have as readers– but also for the real shippers, without whom freight forwarders would have nothing to do.

The year 2022 was also the year when some shipping lines revealed their strategy of going ashore with the direct purchase and snap-up of particular freight forwarders specialized in project cargo, Africa trade and so on. Time will tell if the “one size fits all” and “end to end” run by the shipping lines is a strategy that they are able to maintain also from a customer service point of view.

At PCW we have seen it tried numerous times before without any resounding success. Just because they have massive profits, meaning they are able to withstand the losses, doesn't mean that the strategy was or is right. As a project freight forwarder since 1980 myself I do believe –also as chief editor of this publication– that the freight forwarders of the world play a pivotal role in offering a balanced and diversified plate to the real shippers out there. But times change and evolve and so must we all, change and evolve with it.

In the last few years Project Cargo Weekly has managed to gain considerable traction and readership from around the globe, so it has become easy to get interviews both online and written, as readers do find PCW worth reading, irrespective of the editor’s sometimes direct opinions on matters ranging from shipping to politics.

Reaching some 40,000 recipients worldwide and allowing a maximum of 4 banner ads (6 starting in 2023) in each issue means that there is indeed a lot of intelligence to be derived for the avid reader of PCW and it is my hope that during the year of 2023 you will continue to find PCW worth reading. For 2023 PCW will be published every 2nd week thus helping to unclog receivers inboxes and also editors to find more and better material for the newsletter.

PCW is an integral part of the CLC Projects Group which was established in 2012 in Hong Kong and although the CLC Projects Group manages two project freight forwarder networks (www.clcprojects.com & www.cross-ocean.com), PCW is strictly neutral and does not provide any particular favors to interviewees who happen to be a member in the freight forwarding networks. Integrity and a willingness to allow anyone in the shipping industry to come to the fore and receive support via our publication is paramount to PCW.

Finally, I hope that you will enjoy this 2022 YEARBOOK which is comprehensive, clickable (as it is totally online) and I also remind you that you are welcome to download our PCW Mobile App which is available for free.

Thanking also the supporters of the yearbook who placed an ad with us for your generosity, it is highly appreciated and helps to fuel the continued work also in the year to come!

PS in case you were wondering, the front and back cover pictures for this yearbook were taken during my visit to Lord Howe Island, a tiny island paradise 2 hours northeast of Sydney in the Tasman Sea. True paradise!

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com Editor in Chief of Project Cargo Weekly

SOLUTIONS BEYOND THE ORDINARY

CPC COLI Project Cargo GmbH

PCW YEARBOOK 2022

UNITED HEAVY LIFT

FOREWORD

COLI SHIPPING

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WEEK #02

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NETZ GLOBAL – ARGENTINA, BUENOS AIRES

QUANTUM FORWARDING PROJECTS & LOGISTICS – MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY

EUROTRANS OVERSEAS – SANTIAGO, CHILE

COMARK PROJECT LOGISTICS

WEEK #04

VIDEO INTERVIEW: TOEPFER TRANSPORT - HAMBURG, GERMANY

HÖEGH AUTOLINERS - OSLO, NORWAY

VIDEO INTERVIEW: COMARK PROJECT LOGISTICS – LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA

WEEK #05

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ASIAN TIGER SHIPPING – DUBAI, UAE

ICTSI – DUBAI, UAE

NATCO MIDDLE EAST – JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA

ATLAS HEAVY TRANSPORT

WEEK #06

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FRACHT AG – BASEL, SWITZERLAND

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ITN LOGISTICS – CALGARY, CANADA

SILVASTI OY LTD. – JYVASKYLA, FINLAND

WEEK #07

VIDEO INTERVIEW: A.R.T. LOGISTICS GROUP - HONG KONG

POLYTRA GROUP – PART OF THE FRACHT GROUP - ANTWERP, BELGIUM

VIDEO INTERVIEW: CARGO-PLANNER - MALMÖ, SWEDEN

HUGO STINNES SCHIFFAHRT

WEEK #08

AIRWAGON CARGO MOVERS LTD. – NAIROBI, KENYA

FRITS KROON TRANSPORT - JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRI

UAL CHARTERING – COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

TSA AGENCY SWEDEN

WEEK #12

VIDEO INTERVIEW: DKT / NAXCO GROUP - ANTWERP, BELGIUM

VIDEO INTERVIEW: MULTICONT – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

MILAHA – DOHA, QATAR

WEEK #13

NATCO ANGOLA – PART OF ILS INTERNATIONAL GROUP - LUANDA, ANGOLA

INTERNATIONALE SPEDITION SCHNECKENREITHER – ANSFELDEN, AUSTRIA

BRASIL

– SÃO PAULO, BRAZI

MA

EAS

WEEK #15

– WARSAW, POLAND

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ALAJEAL OIL SERVICES - TRIPOLI, LIBYA

–

WEEK #16

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FURNESS SHIPPING – ZURICH, SWITZERLAND

VIDEO INTERVIEW: INCHCAPE SHIPPING SERVICES – DUBAI, U.A.E.

NYK BULK & PROJECTS – ANTWERP, BELGIUM

WEEK #17

VIDEO INTERVIEW: STAXXON, LLC - LOS ANGELES, USA

NOSCO – CAIRO, EGYPT

VIDEO INTERVIEW: HAPAG LLOYD – GLOBAL SPECIAL CARGO, HAMBURG, GERMANY

DSV - GLOBAL TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS

WEEK #18

STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK MARITIME COLLEGE - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ATLAS HEAVY TRANSPORT - HOUSTON, TEXAS

ALLROUND FORWARDING MIDWEST – CLEVELAND, OHIO, USA

BRASIL PROJECTS

WEEK #19

ASSTRA FORWARDING – CONSTANTA, ROMANIA

KARL GROSS LOGISTICS – HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM

US OCEAN, LLC – HOUSTON, TEXAS

WEEK #20

CLC PROJECTS AND CROSS OCEAN JOINT NETWORK MEETING

ITN LOGISTICS

WEEK #21

HOUSEBOAT HOLIDAY APARTMENTS – ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

CU LOGISTICS – BANGKOK, THAILAND

BOK SENG GROUP – SINGAPORE

WEEK #22

ISS GLOBAL FORWARDING – MANAMA, BAHRAIN

SVECON FREIGHT AB – GAVLE, SWEDEN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: HUGO STINNES SCHIFFAHRT – ROSTOCK, GERMANY

ONE GLOBAL LOGISTICS

WEEK #23

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FAST LINES - ANTWERP, BELGIUM

SEVENSTAR EXCEPTIONAL MARINE TRANSPORT - AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

NTG AIR & OCEAN AS – OSLO, NORWAY

WEEK #24

VIDEO INTERVIEW: TRUST LOGISTICS – PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS

VIDEO INTERVIEW: TRUSTED – SILKEBORG, DENMARK

ULOG – BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

SINO PROJECTS

WEEK #25

SIX OVERSEAS TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS S.A. – LISBON, PORTUGAL

KAMOR LOGISTICS LTD – HAIFA, ISRAEL

IGNAZIOMESSINA&C.–GENOA,ITALY WEEK #26

WEEK #31

TRADELINK

GAC – DUBAI, U.A.E.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VIDEO INTERVIEW: KITA LOGISTICS – ISTANBUL, TURKEY

WEEK #32

VIDEO INTERVIEW: SPECTAINER - SINGAPORE

VIDEO INTERVIEW: CALLIDUS LEGAL - MUMBAI, INDIA

AUDIO INTERVIEW: STÉPHANE BERNINET – HEAD OF CMA CGM PROJECT CARGO DIVISION - MARSEILLE, FRANCE

HACKLIN LOGISTICS

WEEK #33

VIDEO INTERVIEW: RMS PROJECTS - HAMBURG, GERMANY

VIDEO INTERVIEW: DTEQ TRANSPORT ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS - PHUKET, THAILAND

WEEK #34

VIDEO INTERVIEW: TIBA GROUP - BARCELONA, SPAIN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ICHCA INTERNATIONAL & TT CLUB - LONDON, UK

SHANGHAI CAPITAL LOGISTIC TRANSPORT CO., LTD. – SHANGHAI, CHINA

CLC PROJECTS NETWORK

WEEK #35

MBM LOGISTICS LLC – DUBAI U.A.E

MARINE CHARTERING SERVICES – MONACO

ABNORMAL LOAD SERVICES UK INTERNATIONAL LIMITED (ALS) – HULL, UK

WEEK #36

VALMET (TISSUE MACHINERY UNIT) – KARLSTAD, SWEDEN

CROSS OCEAN AIR & SEA PROJECT LOGISTICS NETWORK

WEEK #37

VIDEO INTERVIEW: LEMAN – COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

VIDEO INTERVIEW: REDCON PROJECTS – JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

PORTS MARINE LTD – PART OF THE PORTSIDE GROUP OF COMPANIES - ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

WEEK #38

VIDEO INTERVIEW: NAVI MERCHANTS - BARCELONA, SPAIN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: KWH LOGISTICS - VAASA, FINLAND

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ACCESS WORLD – PROJECTS - SINGAPORE

WEEK #40

VIDEO INTERVIEW: GARGOUR SHIPPING COMPANY – AQABA, JORDAN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: PORT OF UMEÅ – SWEDEN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FREJA GROUP – AARHUS, DENMARK

PROJECT CARGO WEEKLY

WEEK #43

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ESGIAN – OSLO, NORWAY

VIDEO INTERVIEW: ELI LOGISTIX – MONTEREY, MEXICO

VIDEO INTERVIEW: STRATEGIO CONSULTING – LISBON, PORTUGAL

WEEK #44

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FLEET LINE SHIPPING SERVICES – DUBAI, U.A.E.

VIDEO INTERVIEW: MALDIVES STATE SHIPPING - MALE,

#46

INTERVIEW: LR INTERNATIONAL – CHICAGO, USA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VIDEO INTERVIEW: PORTICO & PORT OF PORTSMOUTH, UK

ENERGY INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS SRL – MILAN, ITALY

WEEK #48

EXPRESS FREIGHT MANAGEMENT – HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS

VIDEO INTERVIEW: COLI SCHIFFAHRT & TRANSPORT - BREMEN, GERMANY

AD TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS – PANAMA CITY, PANAMA

WEEK

GLOBAL

OMAN

VIDEO INTERVIEW: FORMAG GROUP – ODESSA, UKRAINE

ANL (AUSTRALIA NATIONAL LINES) - MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

WEEK 02 – 2022

January 13, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 13th of January, and we are starting the year of 2022 in Project Cargo Weekly with our first issue of many to come for this year

It is always a struggle to start again after the holidays, any holiday really. It sometimes feels like you need a holiday after the holiday to rest up—in particular if you have smaller kids and since I have 3 of them in my final production during this life, I am reminded about their energy level at almost all hours…

I left for Denmark on December 16 and the rest of the family arrived on the 26th, so that we spent the New Year celebration together, shooting off a few rockets and listening to the Queen’s speech which is a tradition for many Danes on the 31st of December. She knows what Denmark is about and always gives us an injection of common sense and a feeling of togetherness in our being from Denmark.

My father, although terminally ill, is still with us, and we spent as much time as we ever could together. I have now accomplished having all 6 kids pass by his house to say their formal “goodbye”, and as he is ready to depart this world, we have said what we should and have done the best we could in the situation facing us. Quality time and doing something when people ARE here (not when they no longer are) is what counts.

It seems that the wretched coronavirus is still with us and that the new variant Omikron is causing havoc around the world. Without any clear plan between many countries on how to combat this, we are facing yet another year of difficult planning, rules being made on the go, and no one being certain whether a conference, meeting or trip can actually be made or not.

Shipping is still doing very well and seems to be continuing on a strong note income-wise also in the beginning of 2022—although I do sense that there are risks around the corner, not least with rising interest rates and inflated property bubbles that are bound to explode at some point. Let us see what triggers it. The fact is that

there is too much cheap money floating around looking for a quick fix, so there is bound to be a “correction” at some point as I believe they say in the financial industry.

Further on the shipping front, I received an interesting statistic from one of the major canal agencies, LETH in Copenhagen, Denmark. They compiled statistics about the traffic via the Suez Canal and Panama Canal which you might find interesting.

Before I introduce you to what we have in store for you this week interview-wise, I did a “reverse” interview in order to understand how it really is to be in the HOT seat. Thus my colleague Cody interviewed me about my background in shipping. Hope you are not bored to death by it but find it interesting as it spans a career starting in 1980 in shipping.

Taking a soft start this year I have chosen to re-publish 3 interviews, and here I focus on the countries of Argentina, Uruguay and Chile. You will find the 3 interviews further below. They are still interesting and valid for those of you interested in this southern continent.

We, of course, finish our newsletter with shipping news and trade intel. Also, I wish to point out the following important information which you are kindly requested to take note of:

1.Our Project Cargo Weekly Yearbook 2021 will be published on the 20th of January in this newsletter. It is an online version and everything is clickable.

Our PCW app is useful when you are on the go. Feel free to download it here.

With featured picture and video of the week, including wise words, we bid you “au revoir” for this time and until next Thursday,

I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Netz Global – Argentina, Buenos Aires

Tell us about NETZ Global and its history? How did you come by that name? Who are the owners of the company?

Netz Global was founded at the end of 2013. After spending 18 uninterrupted years working for large multinationals in the world of freight forwarding: Emery, DHL Danzas, Eagle and UTi, there came a time when I thought that it would be best to stop being an employee in earnings and partner in losses… Ha ha!… That was the moment I decided to get out of the corporate world and put my experience to the test. I founded the company together with a great friend and colleague from the industry.

The name came up on a trip to Austria. I was looking for a name for the company. I looked at the word “Netz” on the map of the Austrian subway stations, and I said, “That’s the name I want.” Remembering Bax Global, I reinforced my choice with Global, creating Netz Global. It would be the name of my new adventure.

During the last months of 2015 and in mid-2016, the former partners of the company withdrew, and Claudio

Interview with Mr. Francisco Rugilo Managing Director

Polito (great logistics professional and friend) joined the team. Claudio is co-owner and brand new Chief Operating Officer of Netz Global. I knew Claudio in the years when I was a salesperson at Emery Worldwide, and Claudio was a foreign trade manager at Emerson Process Management. A great team was formed to continue the journey.

Argentina has several ports. Can you tell our readers about the main ports used in Argentina for import/export and, in particular, could you highlight the ports used for project and oversized cargo? Perhaps you could provide our readers with a detailed map?

We can say that 90% of cargo in containers continues to enter through the ports terminals of Buenos Aires (EXOLGAN, BACTSSA, TRP, APM). Nothing has changed in that sense. Buenos Aires continues to centralize most of the conventional cargo operations and also project cargo (oversized cargo). In Buenos Aires, we also have the Zarate terminal. Grimaldi operates there with its RO RO / Break Bulk service, Campana port, La Plata Port.

Other ports of great importance, but for the agro-export business, are the ports of Bahía Blanca and Rosario. I attach a map in Spanish but illustrative of the volumes in TEUs handled by the ports in Argentina.

Your country is an important one in South America. How is your current economy doing, and is your shipping business affected by the global pandemic?

Argentina started the year with a change of government. Let’s say that since I started working when I was 19 years old, Argentina has been in a continuous economic crisis. The pandemic has only deepened the problems. The government has taken measures to limit imports to the bare minimum, but is focusing its efforts on productive investments that favor national production. Today, we have an export surplus, but it is directly related to the decline in import volumes. Even so, we trust that by 2021, with the pandemic under control, we can emerge from this long recession that has lasted for more than 10-12 years.

As far as the maritime services, let’s say that they are working almost normally, but we cannot say the same for air cargo. Argentina has practically suspended international flights since March due to the pandemic. This has resulted in sky-high rates and many difficulties in flying cargo from Asia and Europe. Above all, Miami has confirmed its value as the main airport for Argentina and Latin America. Many cargo airlines connect their

cargo from Europe and Asia to Argentina via Miami, but offering very high rates that more than duplicate the cost we had before COVID-19 arrived. Now more than ever, Miami Airport has become the main cargo hub for international freight forwarders.

Is customs clearance a problem in Argentina these days? Is there any golden rule for our readers to ensure smooth handling on arrival?

Let’s say that in Argentina, customs is as bureaucratic as in many countries in Latin America. The golden rule is to work in advance, analyzing all aspects of operations to minimize the margin of error. Errors can be very costly in the final stages.

But above all things: NEVER BUT NEVER SHIP WITHOUT OUR GREEN LIGHT !!!

We have a very professional customs team focused on results and business. We want to minimize the impact of customs problems, so that our clients can focus on their business. Don’t be afraid, contact us!!

It often happens to us that our global partners request quotes, and our first answer continues with many questions. Some agents seem to get annoyed, We understand. It seems that we do not want to answer, but we tell them that it is the most professional way to handle customs operations in Argentina: Information and anticipation. Not having the precise information can give us a wrong approach to the operation.

Could you provide our readers with some examples of project cargoes that you have handled?

We handle everything from huge tanks in break bulk service to oversized agricultural equipment in platforms, from huge energy generators of 3 meters high to 60 tons airfreight shipments with high tech. Although many times, it is just a small box with parts whose incorrect handling could cause companies to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars.

No matter the size and/or the urgency, we can assist you with any shipment.

Tell our readers about your own shipping background. What made you choose this career?

I started at just 19 years of age working at Emery Worldwide as part of their administrative staff, and a year later, one of my most remembered bosses gave me the chance to move to sales. There it all began.

I had to learn a lot in a very short time. Soon after, they chose me to represent Emery Latin America on a trip to the United States, visiting Emery offices and assisting my colleagues in matters related to business in the region.

Emery was my true school. Thanks to my good sales results, they invited me to participate in excellent work trips and training throughout the USA.

After almost 8 years at Emery, I went through the giant DHL-Danzas, then EGL and finally my last corporate years were as Sales Manager at UTi Argentina. I think I did not choose my career—I ran into it! Hahaha!… It’s a very dynamic business. Let’s just say there are no boring days! Everything is in constant motion.

I love what I do, and I do it with passion. The years go by, technology invades us, companies merge, but this continues to be a people business, and that’s where I like to be.

If our readers are interested, how can they get in touch with you?

I’m available 24/7 via WhatsUp: + 54 9 11 3659 5536 and by email: Francisco@netzglobal.com.ar https://netzglobal.com.ar/

Tell us about yourself (Sebastian & Santiago) what is your background and when did you start your shipping career originally? What made you choose this business?

Quantum Forwarding Projects & Logistics – Montevideo, Uruguay

Interview with Santiago Rodriguez & Sebastian Agostini Owners

▪Santiago Rodriguez answer: I graduated with a degree in International Business and took my first job at the Argentinian Embassy in Uruguay, thanks to which I got my second job for an Argentinian company that was setting up in Uruguay. I was in charge of importations and logistics. In 2005 I entered the freight forwarding world (general cargo) and later, in 2008 I became involved in project freight forwarding where I feel is where I always wanted to be. As I always say, “forwarding is a way of life!”.

▪Sebastian Agostini answer: After I finished my degree in International Business I got a job in a familiar local company dedicated to international moves and forwarding, that first job helped me realize that forwarding is the perfect fit for me, partly because all my life I have been immersed in the maritime world because my father was a member of the Uruguayan Navy, he passed his love for the sea and vessels on to me!

When did you establish Quantum Forwarding in Uruguay? Who are the owners?

▪In July 2016 with my colleague and friend Santiago Rodriguez we decided it was time to start our own business after more than 10 years experience in the logistics business. We were part of the most important investments and logistics businesses in Uruguay like Ancap Refinery, Wind Mills Projects, Pulp Mills Constructions Sites (Botnia / UPM/ Montes del Plata), Total Exploration and Production (deep water world record) and so on.

▪The owners are Santiago Rodriguez and Sebastian Agostini.

Uruguay is not in the news every day, tell us a bit about your country, what are the main ports used for business and what are your main import/export products?

▪The most important ports in Uruguay are:

• Montevideo (MVD) for container vessels, cruise ships, RORO vessels, heavy lift vessels. •Nueva Palmira for bulk ships and barges that attend Paraguay & Bolivia through the Parana River.

We export meat, soy, rice, dairy products among others, and we import products such as spare parts, vehicles, machinery, retails goods etc. Last but not least, Uruguay with the Free Harbor Law is positioned as a logistics hub in South America capable of providing services to the whole region.

We have competitive and comparative advantages that put our country in a very good position for the region and world. For example, sometimes it is much more convenient to handle shipments to Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia and the South of Brazil through Uruguay due to the cost & time conditions. We have a modern Customs that makes operations easy and secure.

What are the main activities of Quantum Forwarding today? Can you provide us with some examples of project cargoes handled?

▪We have a General Cargo Forwarding Division handling LCL, FCL, Air & Truck shipments from any part of the world and to any part of the world, and we also have a Project Forwarding Division from where we handle special shipments. Some of the projects we have completed from the beginning up-to-now are Oversized Transformers, Windmills, Oil & Gas Drilling Equipment (offshore & on-shore) among others, from EXW up to unloading at the final site.

Which shipowners are calling from outside South America to Uruguay?

▪Container carriers we have calling UY include all of the big players: Hamburg Sud, Hapag Lloyd, Cosco, MSC, Maersk, MOL, UASC among others. Over the last few years, some carriers decided not to call MVD anymore, but this is also a consequence of the consortiums that have joined.

We also have RORO carriers calling UY from Europe & Asia, such as Grimaldi, Glovis & Eukor. Most of them came with cars, for example, that are later shipped on RORO barges to Paraguay from MVD or Nueva Palmira Port.

▪Bulk vessels call UY when they are chartered, the same applies for Projects Vessels although, for example, BBC usually calls MVD once per month with breakbulk cargo given MVD’s proximity to Buenos Aires.

How about customs in Uruguay? can they be difficult and are there any specific rules to follow or guidelines that you can give overseas readers?

▪There are no specific rules to be considered other than the usual things we have to bear in mind when handling a shipment. Documents have to be checked in advance to avoid surprises. The Packing list, Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading and where applicable, Certificate of Origin, are mandatory for all operations.

Again, our Free Port Law allows us to offer a full range of services to our customers regionally as well as globally (picking, packing, etc).

Five years ago our customs authorities launched a system that allows all transactions to be completed via their website system, which helps to avoid delays, bureaucracy and guarantees transparency. Because of the efficiency of the system our Customs serve as advisors to the US Customs. Countries like Colombia, Bolivia, Paraguay have been trying to learn from the Uruguayan model.

Are you member of any international networks currently? If so do you feel it is worthwhile given that there are so many networks around?

▪Yes, we belong to several networks and we feel that networks are always useful because they help you expand your business, develop strong relationships and a good reputation around the world. We truly believe networks are the best way to keep this business strong and liable. Moreover, you can share your expertise with colleagues and take the opportunity to learn from them in turn.

How to get in touch with you?

Web: www.quantumforwarding.com

Email: info@quantumforwarding.com

Santiago.rodriguez@quantumforwarding.com

Sebastian.agostini@quantumforwarding.com

Eurotrans Overseas – Santiago, Chile

Tell us about the history of Eurotrans. Does the name mean that you have a European background?

Eurotrans was born in May of 2013 as a specialized arm in project cargo for an Italian freight forwarder. Since then, we have developed our freight forwarding in many other areas, as well as the work that we solely conduct.

That connection with Europe, especially Italy, explains the origins of our name.

Interview with Mr. Italo Lizana CEO

Do you have experience in handling project cargo and, if so, could you provide us with a few examples?

Yes, we have experience in project cargo, mainly for the piping industry and also transporting minerals like lithium and barite. Transporting oversized iron pieces is another of our specialities.

We also handle exports to South and Central America, being mainly Panamá, Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia, Brazil for example. We handle import reception from mainly India, Turkey, the USA, China and Germany as well.

Chile is a beautiful country and it is a very long country in distance. Can you tell us about the size lengthwise of your country and elaborate a bit on the main ports that are used for handling project cargo?

The length of Chile is around 4.300 kilometres and about the length of the South Pole

The main projects ports are:

NORTH ZONE: Arica, Iquique, Antofagasta, Puerto Angamos, Coquimbo

CENTRAL ZONE: Valparaíso and San Antonio

SOUTH ZONE: San Vicente, Coronel, Lirquén, Puerto Montt & Punta Arenas

How is customs clearance being handled in Chile? is it generally difficult? Do you have any good advice for would-be exporters to Chile?

It’s not at all difficult, depending on the income restrictions of each product, especially those of plant and animal origin. Chilean customs even work hard to reduce bureaucratic barriers for imports and, especially, for national exports.

My advice is to verify the existing customs restrictions before sending the products.

Chile is also the transhipment country for the landlocked country of Bolivia. Which port(s) are being used for this and is that something that you can arrange?

The main ports who are used by the Bolivian importers/exporters in Chile are Iquique and Arica, and yes, we can arrange export and reception there, with the cooperation of our agent in Bolivia, of course.

I once visited Easter Island and that was a five-hour flight from Santiago due west over the Pacific. How on Earth do you get material and supplies out to those remote islands? Further, how often is that possible?

I have not had the pleasure yet of visiting Easter Island, but there are two ways of transport there – by sea or air freight. Mainly provided by just one national airline & naval vessels. Only a few sailings per week.

Tell us about your career in logistics. When did you start? what made you choose this career in the first place?

I started in logistics around 2004, working for an international freight forwarder. After studying as a commercial engineer at a Chilean university, I developed my career in multiple areas: mainly operations, customer service and sales. Then I ended up specialising in project cargo, finished completing my logistics instruction and became the head of Eurotrans.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

Feel free to contact me on my email:

E: italo.lizana@eurotranschile.cl

Website: http://www.eurotranschile.cl/

Chipolbrok Vessel MV Wladyslaw Orkan in Copenhagen to Load Project Cargoes for China

Editor’s Note:

I paid a visit to the CP 2003 built MPP vessel mv W. Orkan which was seen in Copenhagen to load project cargoes for China. It is not everyday that a project cargo vessel is seen in Copenhagen for export loading, but yes, a great day on 20th of Dec, 2021.

Editor’s Note:

On a beautiful yet cold day late December, I took this picture from the local Grenaa to Aarhus train in Denmark. A couple of vessels waiting outside the Port of Aarhus and what describes shipping more beautifully than this?

Wise Words

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WEEK 04 – 2022

January 27, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is the last Thursday of the month of January, and Thursday means that Project Cargo Weekly is being published.

The past week has been interesting in a number of ways. On the COVID19 front, it seems that my native country Denmark decided that they NO LONGER regard the pandemic (in general) and the Omicron variant (in particular) as pandemics. As a result, they will lift all restrictions. But as usual within the EU, there are as many different opinions about this as there are countries.

And on a more embarrassing note for the union, they can hardly stand shoulder to shoulder to show Russia that bullying and intimidation towards the country of Ukraine won’t work because some of the major EU nations have either made themselves totally dependent on natural gas from Russia or are hopeful for some lucrative trade deals.

In my view, it is sickening, and it shows that the US is right to focus more on themselves. Rumsfeld, the former US defence secretary, said it once: ”Well whom to call in the EU?” Of course, the price of democracy is that we sometimes muddle along and there is not a better alternative. Yet, we DO need to find a way to stand firm, stand with a strong voice, and back it up by at least committing the minimum 2% of GDP for the defence forces as we are committed to via NATO. Also, as pointed out correctly by Trump, some countries are riding the cheapskate wave, hoping that the US will come to their aid in case of trouble.

But I am glad to note that Germany is willing to provide helmets and a field hospital to Ukraine, and I am sure that France will be sending pillows next……. see here from Times of Malta ☺.

Let us see what happens, and let us not forget the 280 people who are also victims from this long-term conflict: They died on an MH flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur while flying over Ukraine [editor’s note: 2014 Malaysian Airlines flight which was shot down]. The fact remains that Ukraine is an independent country,

so we had better stand up for it without succumbing to Russia’s salami tactics….Crimea, Donbas Region… what’s next?

I was also in the port of Södertälje / Stockholm Gateway this week where I witnessed a COSCO Shipping vessel mv Tian Lu (see photos here).

arriving and discharging a full load of housing modules. A few days after she departs, another charter vessel from Asia will arrive with a similar load. Smart isn’t it that housing modules can be put together, thus saving 6-9 months in the construction of housing for students and so on here in Sweden. Yet, whether it is green or not to transport things around the world that technically could have been made here is debatable, but at least in the past, global outsourcing and world trade has meant that transportation costs were a fraction of the overall expenditure. That has certainly changed in the past year!

I am off to Dubai this coming Sunday and will be attending the breakbulk expo on February 1-2. This will be followed by chairing a CLC Projects and Cross Ocean Network meeting on February 3rd. Meeting people face-to-face again is indeed something that I am looking forward to, and it also means that you can no longer hide behind a computer screen when doing your sales work, although it is very smart in many ways and has become an accepted way of life in the last couple of years. The wife has given me her long overdue list of duty-free cosmetic items to buy from the airport in Dubai, so it seems life is slowly getting back to normal ☺.

In today’s issue of our newsletter, we first of all visit the wonderful city of Hamburg, Germany. It is a renowned place for shipping, and it is also the HQ for Toepfer Research. Toepfer Research is part of the Toepfer Group and shares forecasts, particularly in the shipping field and what is to be expected. This video is very interesting to watch as the interviewee is more than “just” an analyst of which there are many, but he actually has a concrete past in shipping….which helps when believing the forecast I would say….

After that, we visit the land of plenty when it comes to fish, oil, mountains and even shipping, and here I am talking about Norway. We republish an interview here with Hoegh Lines which you will find interesting as they are very active in moving project cargo around the world using their giant RORO ships.

Finally, I remind you of our Project Cargo Weekly Yearbook. At 472 pages and with clickable contents (to a great extent), it is a massive compilation of intelligence that will reward the active reader with insights, comments, and above all valuable contacts!

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Höegh Autoliners - Oslo, Norway

Yorck Niclas Prehm, Head of Research at Toepfer Transport was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Toepfer Transport - Hamburg, Germany

Interview with Mr. Oskar Orstadius

When was Höegh Autoliners originally established and what is it’s main business today? Where are the headquarters located and where do you have branch offices? Who are the owners of Höegh Autoliners?

Höegh’s shipowning history goes back to 1927, since then the company has been a pioneer in the international shipping industry.

Today, the Höegh companies run Pure Car and Truck Carriers under the Höegh Autoliners’ brand and are involved in the LNG segment through Höegh LNG.

Höegh Autoliners is a privately owned company with the head office in Oslo, Norway.

With two solid owners Leif Höegh & Co and Maersk, the company stands strong to invest in the future. This is evidenced by the order of six new Post-Panamax vessels delivered to the Company in 2015-2016.

The topic for today is the trade between China & South East Asia to Africa. Where and with what frequency do you call ports in Asia and Africa?

With two sailing’s a month, our East Asia to Africa trade caters to shipments from several main ports in Japan, Korea, China and Singapore to destinations in South and East Africa.

This trade also has a synchronised connection in Durban to West Africa and also to the Indian Ocean Islands.

The vessels types service the Asia/Africa trade? What is the ramp capacity and door opening? Do you accept project cargo (static and rolling) for all the services into Africa?

On this trade we basically have two vessel types in service. They have a door opening between 5,0 and 5,1m and ramp capacity ranging from 100-150ton. We do accept all types of project cargo, both rolling and static. We have been most successful in loading many different types of commodities into Africa. If cargo is static it will be loaded on a rolltrailer (mafi) before being loaded on the vessel to ensure a smooth loading and discharge operation.

Who in different regions of the world should be contacted to get a quotation? Do your local offices have the ability to respond to rate requests or must they seek approval from the head office?

We wish to give our customers the best of two worlds; the strength of a global organisation and network combined with the expertise and agility of a local organisation. Therefore we operate with 20 own offices and a wide network of appointed agents across the world.

Points of contact for the regions discussed:

Europe: autoliners.germany@hoegh.com

Africa: autoliners.rsa@hoegh.com

China: autoliners.china@hoegh.com

Japan: autoliners.japan@hoegh.com

Korea: autoliners.korea@hoegh.com

What information do you require for a quotation to be issued in a timely manner?

All local offices handle the quotations, they normally have a rate already or need to discuss with relevant trade department or discuss operational feasibility with our Breakbulk team.

We always strive to make as accurate an offer or indication as possible, to do this it may sometimes take time to study the operational feasibility.

Speed may be improved if as much information as possible is provided from the start, but we at a minimum need to have dimensions, weight, type of commodity and if it is packed loose or crated.

If there are drawings, pictures and/or information about lashing points available including them will help process the quotation faster.

If no drawings/pictures are available please mention this in the information to save time by reducing back and forth emails. Keep in mind the more information given the more accurate the offer will be.

Tell us about the weight/size capacity mafi trailers that you have on the Africa trade.

A standard 40′ rolltrailer ranges in capacity from 100ton up to 120ton. The newest addition to our equipment fleet are 30′ rolltrailers which have a capacity of 160ton and are very suitable for heavy or dense cargo. However, on this trade the vessel capacity would limit what we are able to carry. In addition we also have 80′ and 72′ rolltrailers which is very suitable for lengthy cargo.

Is there anything in particular you would like to point out about the African service, given that it is such a large continent? Can you please provide the sailing schedule for Höegh’s Africa trade?

We have a very good position with our synchronised connections in Durban, this basically connects both east and west Africa from Europe, the Middle East, India and East Asia. Keep in mind that trans-shipment on RoRo is safe and opens up more opportunities for a global coverage. The risk is minimal as the cargo will remain on the rolltrailer all the way to it’s final destination.

View the sailing schedule for Africa here: FEAF trade

View the sailing schedules of all trades here: Global Sailing Schedule

You can search our sailing schedules by trade or load/discharge port or even by vessel from the customer center on our website

All trades are also presented under the Trade Routes tab on our website- here customers get a quick overview of our trades and their sailing patterns: http://www.hoeghautoliners.com/trade-routes

When did you start working at Höegh Autoliners?

I am a Master Mariner and started my maritime career on-board deep sea Ro/Ro vessels. I gained great experience on how to handle Breakbulk and Project Cargo on Ro/Ro vessels. This experience was very useful when

I started to work ashore at various shipping companies before I joined Höegh Autoliners in 2012. At Höegh I was first responsible for Global Port and Cargo Operations before taking my current role as the lead in the newly established Global Breakbulk team.

Interviewee:

Oskar Orstadius

Head of Breakbulk Sales Global Commercial

oskar.orstadius@hoegh.com

Höegh Autoliners AS www.hoeghautoliners.com

Video

Benjamin Herman, Project Cargo & Quality Manager at Comark Project Logistics Slovenia was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview: Comark Project Logistics – Ljubljana, Slovenia

A COSCO Shipping Newbuild Paying a Visit to Port of Södertälje

Editor’s Note:

The Port of Södertälje close to Stockholm is a very large port for importation of cars but is also being used often for discharging project cargo, particularly housing modules. One of COSCO Shipping’s newbuildings recently paid a visit alongside.

Editor’s Note:

And in yet another beautiful morning, this time at the Hutchison Port of Stockholm/Norvik, the Chipolbrok vessel mv NOWOWIEJSKI was seen discharging cable drums from Asia.

Wise Words

WEEK 05 – 2022

February 3, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 3rd of February, and here we are again.

I was supposed to have been enjoying life in Dubai this week and be present at the currently held Breakbulk Middle East Expo and even chairing the first ever CLC Projects/Cross Ocean joint network meeting, but a virus came across my flight path. I had no symptoms, have gotten 3 COVID vaccinations already, and still was deemed positive twice from the tests I took before taking the long-awaited Emirates flight to Dubai.

I hate to admit it, but I was really upset and thought to myself: ”This is nothing but a flu. Why can’t I travel?” But, of course, upon reflection, during a pandemic it is NOT time to be selfish, and luckily, the on-line meeting platform does exist. So I have managed fairly well with a combination of Zoom/Teams and video calls using BOTIM which is the approved APP for the Emirates.

Still, the disappointment was palpable, and I was, in no uncertain terms, not a pleasant guy to be around during the first 2 days after my result. My wife confirms this fact and reminds me that she was also unable to receive her long-awaited, cosmetic, duty-free shopping list from Dubai Airport ☺ so I take it that her depression was ultimately longer lasting than mine…

I heard from the floor that although it is unpleasant and clumsy to have a discussion with the face mask (also due to the background noise you need to stand pretty close so the question is how much the face masks actually help), but overall, everyone has been happy to be out and about again. So let us hope there is light at the end of this very long and tiresome tunnel.

On the political front, it seems in the past week that at least for now, the Russia/Ukraine potential conflict has abated a bit, but make no mistake: trust is probably not what comes to mind when dealing with that empire in the east. They have had leaders in the past that were beyond atrocious, and I am not sure if you know about

the genocide that took place at the same time as another dictator was in charge in Germany. It is called Holodomor—not as “well known” worldwide as the Holocaust but certainly its equal in both size and horror! Read about it here

I was in touch with some friends in the Ukraine. I was told that everyone remembers, and although the region was then a part of the USSR, it is today an independent country.

The rest of the world had better stand up for itself and be firm, which is the ONLY language understood. Gas pipeline democratic discussions lead nowhere, and before we become another anschluss victim here in Western Europe, we had better wake up! I can recommend that you all read a book called: I chose freedom. Author: Victor A. Kravchenko. It was a huge eye opener for me years ago and had a profound influence on me. It begins with the history in 1905 leading up to the time when the author took his own life. Here is a quote from the review on Amazon about it:

“During World War II, Kravchenko was a captain in the Red Army, just before being sent to the United States as an official of the Soviet Purchasing Commission in Washington. It was then, in 1943, when he made the decision to defect and sever all relations with the USSR. He had to go into hiding in order to write what would be one of the most shocking accounts of what was happening in Russia. In just eight weeks, his book, I chose Freedom rose to the bestseller lists.”

Before returning to shipping news, let me share with you a recent clip I saw on YouTube concerning a bulker in distress in the North Sea. We have had terrible storms recently here in the North Sea and Baltic region of Europe. It’s amazing to see the rescue operations, watch here: SAR helicopter winching crew off of cargo ship Julietta D.

Also, with all the conflicts raging in the world and disagreements about this and that and so too in the logistics, freight forwarding, and liner shipping world, you may find this book by author Miquel Roca interesting. It’s just been published. It is about London as a centre for mediation, and if they are not too busy partying in the capital, it may well be that they are indeed the maritime centre for arbitration. Read more here.

Now, returning to the business world, today, we naturally have a bit of a focus due to the Breakbulk Middle East Expo in Dubai. We start off by republishing an interview we had with ATS: Asian Tiger Shipping in Dubai. They are active in the region and have close links with Saudi Arabia. You will find the video interview (below) interesting.

We then proceed by talking with the Dubai representative of a Philippine port operator called ICTSI who are among the largest in the world—a bit under the radar perhaps compared to bigger organizations but surely a player in the ever-increasing African market. It is important that you’ve got the terminal on your side when having a booking, right? So do read this interview.

Finally, we speak to a NATCO representative from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. NATCO are proactive and have also got an office in Dubai. You will find their comments insightful as well.

So as you can see, a focus this week on the Middle East is the order of the day.

Also take note of the newly published Project Cargo Weekly Yearbook for 2021. It is chock-full of excellent (both written and video) interviews that were published during the year passed. Since the issue is digital everything including the video interviews are clickable.

Until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Srinivas, CEO and Deepesh Rajan, Dep. GM at Asian Tiger Shipping LLC, Dubai, UAE was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

ICTSI – Dubai, UAE

Video Interview: Asian Tiger Shipping – Dubai, UAE

Interview with Mr. Michael Nielsen Commercial EMEA

To begin with, Michael could you elaborate a bit to our readers about your career in shipping leading up to your current position representing ICTSI—one of the most well-known port and terminal operators worldwide?

I have primarily worked for vessel operators / shipowners throughout my career. I started in the container segment and slowly moved more and more into the break bulk / project / heavy lift segments. I have been lucky enough to have worked in Singapore, Japan, Mauritius, and for the last 8 years in the UAE.

In my current role with ICTSI, I will make use of my operator experience and my network to add some additional focus and further develop the non-containerized cargo we handle through our ports. We recently announced one, new, multipurpose port concession secured in West Africa (more details below), and we hope to be able to announce another couple of new initiatives in the region before the end of the year. These will be in addition to some of the existing terminals already handling break bulk / project cargo on a regular basis.

Baltic Container Terminal Ltd. (BCT), Gdynia, Poland – Wind Turbine Towers Onboard Chipolbrok Vessel

ICTSI is running both container and bulk terminals, right? Tell us more and provide us with some insights as to where you currently have your development focus, please.

ICTSI operates dedicated container terminals as well as a number of multipurpose terminals.

Our terminals range from our fully automated container terminal in Melbourne, Australia, to true multipurpose terminals like our terminal in Umm Qasr, Iraq, which handles both containers and break bulk cargo for Iraq’s massive oil industry.

Currently, one of ICTSI’s focus areas is further expansion in Africa. While we are successfully operating the Matadi Gateway Terminal (DR Congo) and MICTSL (Toamasina, Madagascar), we have also recently signed a concession for a multipurpose terminal at the newly developed Kribi deep water port (Cameroun).

Gateway to Central Africa

Basra Gateway Terminal, Iraq

View the Gateway to Central Africa brochure

And, fingers crossed, before year-end, we expect to inaugurate another two multipurpose terminals in West Africa which should be of interest to your readers. We hope to be able to announce these projects soon.

Who are the owners of ICTSI and where is the headquarters located?

ICTSI is a publicly listed, international port company headquartered out of Manila, Philippines.

The company started operations in the Port of Manila in 1988 and has, since then, successfully expanded globally. We now operate 33 terminals/ports in 21 countries on 5 continents.

More information on all our facilities, finances and our HSSE and CSR initiatives can be found at www.ictsi.com

Matadi Gateway Terminal (MGT), DR Congo

Baltic Container Terminal Ltd. (BCT), Gdynia, Poland – Helicopter Handling

I believe that there is quite a bit of competition between various terminals to entice shipowners to call just their terminal. How do you go about securing and maintaining customers, and how is the competition in the market for you currently?

The terminal/port business is very competitive. Significant infrastructure, equipment and IT investments are required to provide the shipowners with an efficient and safe operation. So, we invest on a large scale to ensure we have the handling and IT capabilities that our customers require.

Further, our terminals are empowered to deal directly with the clients and make quick decisions, thus being able to react to customer needs on a flexible and timely basis.

We also focus very much on the customer experience, being open and forthcoming in communication.

What are the strong points of ICTSI?

We are a publicly listed company, but operate day-to-day like a true family company, with the individual employee being empowered and taking responsibility.

You will get a personal, quick, and flexible service in which we tailor-make solutions and resolve challenges on the spot.

In terms of HSSE, with more than 30-years experience, ICTSI has a proven track record of efficient, safe and reliable operation.

Many of the readers of Project Cargo Weekly are indeed project freight forwarders but also shipowners. Let us say that a freight forwarder has a certain project, and he wants to know if you, as a terminal, can handle it, but he hasn’t yet decided which shipowner he will use. Would you be willing to support and give input on that? Do you have experience in handling OOG and breakbulk pieces in your terminals?

We are very happy to welcome direct inquiries from project freight forwarders and assist them in finding the best solutions in a given market.

ICTSI has extensive experience handling OOG and breakbulk in many of our terminals, and we are keen to expand these activities further. We will, therefore, be very interested to develop new partnerships for breakbulk business, both with carriers and freight forwarders.

How is it best for our readers to get in touch with you?

I can be contacted on my email address: mnielsen@ictsi.com

Alternatively on my mobile phone: +971 56 2166877

NATCO Middle East – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Interview with Mr. Irshad Hussain Regional Manager

Can you tell us about the history of NATCO in the Middle East? When was the company established, where is it headquartered and who are the owners of the company today?

Ever since the establishment of NATCO Middle East, back in 2002 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the company never looked back and went on to open branch offices in Riyadh and Dammam in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and in Bremen, Germany, under the name Towerpro Logistics GmbH. We have our headquarters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Mr. Syed Abbas Ali is the managing director/owner of the company.

Saudi Arabia has many ports, both in the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Could you enlighten our readers about the ports mainly used for break bulk and project cargo? The main seaports of Saudi Arabia are:

•Jeddah Islamic Port

•King Abdul Aziz Port, Dammam

•King Fahad Industrial Port, Jubail

•Jubail Commercial Port

•King Fahad Industrial Port, Yanbu

•Yanbu Commercial Port

•Jizan Port

•Dhiba Port (located at the north end of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast)

The main ports used for break bulk shipments are Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdul Aziz Port, Dammam, King Fahad Industrial Port, Jubail and King Fahad Industrial Port, Yanbu.

Can you handle inland transport in Saudi Arabia? If so, could you provide us with a few examples of cargoes handled?

One of our main specialties is handling inland project transportation within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Not only are we specialized in heavy lift and over dimensional cargoes from various Saudi Arabian seaports to

project sites all around the kingdom and vice versa, but also in providing services like placing the heavy lifts or over dimensional cargoes onto foundations.

Here are a few examples of cargoes handled by NATCO Middle East:

Currently involved in Metro Riyadh Project, consisting of more than 250 metro cars being custom cleared at King Abdul Aziz Port, Dammam, transportation from Dammam seaport up to Metro Riyadh Depot and offloading the same on the rail traces.

The shipment of transformers from Turkey to Yanbu for Saudi Electric Company. Pictures of the project below:

Details of a few other projects that we did during the last three years are:

Siemens Royal Commission, Yanbu transformer pictures

Marafiq Project, Yanbu for General Electric – transportation of nine generators from Jeddah seaport to Yanbu job site.

ISCOSA Project, Al-Khobar – Transportation of 1 x Rotor from Dammam seaport to Al-Khobar Job site.

Hunayn Project on behalf of Siemens for Saudi Electric Company – transportation of eight transformers from Jeddah seaport to Hunayn job site and placing them on to foundations.

Different projects related to Hail and Al-Jouf for Saudi electric Company – transportation of transformers from seaports to job sites and placing them on to foundations.

Is it difficult to obtain customs clearance in Saudi Arabia? For example, if you have a delivery to Riyadh, would the customs clearance take place in the entry port or at the final destination?

Obtaining customs clearance in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is not difficult at all. With the experience and background that most of our operations staff have gained from working in this field for more than five to twenty years, we can guide our customers in relation to documentation etc. in the smoothest way to avoid undue delays. It is only difficult for less professional companies who do not have the background and experience in the field and end up making their clients suffer delays and undue demurrages.

Do you belong to any international networks at the moment? Do you have your own offices abroad as well?

Apart from being a member of the Cross Ocean Network, NATCO Middle East is a member of WCA and FIATA.

We have our own office by the name of TowerPro Logistics GmbH, Bremen, Germany. It is a part of the NATCO Middle East group of companies.

What do you like most about working in logistics?

By working in a logistics company and, particularly, being deeply involved in projects, there are challenges every day. Finding solutions for those challenges is what I like most.

What made you choose a career in logistics?

Having started my career in the field of shipping and logistics thirty-five years ago in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it has become a passion more than anything now. I just love the profession!

What’s the best way to get in touch with you?

My contact details are:

Mohammed Irshad Hussain

Regional Manager

NATCO Middle East

Suite No. 309, 3rd Floor, Tower Building, Madina Road – Jeddah – KSA

P.O Box: 54727/Jeddah 21524

Tel : +966-12-6525956 (223)

Fax : +966-12-6521823

Mobile : +966-506644276

Website: www.natcomiddle-east.com

In the Danish Versatile Port of Grenaa a lot is Happening

Editor’s Note:

With a perfect location, excellent water draft to accommodate the largest vessels, the port is vying to do even more in the field of project cargo, scrap iron, renewables and what-not. Here is a short clip from my recent visit there.

Editor’s Note:

Night view from Port Botany, Sydney. I took this shot when I was a passenger onboard mv CMA CGM Georgia from Singapore to Melbourne. I am looking forward to the day when COVID-19 is a thing of the past and we can travel by containership again as passengers!

Wise Words

WEEK 06 – 2022

February 10, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday again, the 10th of February, and PCW is back.

The past week for me has been rather uneventful here in Stockholm, Sweden except for a quick trip to visit the Port of Oskarshamn. There, I saw the discharge of tower sections from a Spliethoff MPP vessel. View the photo album here. You can also see a bit of footage from my 24 hr trip in the featured video of the week.

Last week also saw the conclusion of the breakbulk expo in Dubai—a huge success by all accounts, judging from the reports I got. Also, the one day event that I was supposed to chair but was unable to due to a COVID19 infection turned out ok. It reminded me, believe it or not, that the shipping world can exist even without me present….it is always an eye opener to be reminded that you are not as indispensable as you might think. If I ever was in doubt, I could, of course, just have asked one of my ex-wives ☺.

I had an interview with a company based in Hong Kong today. Taking into consideration the zero tolerance against COVID policy that is being enforced in both Hong Kong as in China itself with obvious tragic side effects too, it does mean that we in Europe are still able to call ourselves “lucky”. One of the consequences of this zero tolerance situation has resulted in the loss of life even in shipping which seems to be the fallout. Read more about the recent fatal incident.

Yet, this happens when apparatchiks [editor’s note: historical term for a member of a specific Communist party] anywhere blindly are obeying rules. What happened to common sense? This incident also reminds me of a quote from the statesman Winston Churchill in which he said: “Democracy is the worst form of government –except for all the others that have been tried”. So yes, the alternative is after all NOT something to wish for if there ever was any doubt.

This week shipping wise in PCW, we have quite a few interesting interviews in store for you. We start off in

the land of Toblerone, watches, and the headquarters of the scandal ridden FIFA, and we are here talking about Switzerland. Fracht AG is a reputable project freight forwarder with offices in many countries worldwide, and their representative tells us about their capabilities also in the African continent after a recent purchase.

We then visit one of the largest countries in the world, famous among other things for maple syrup and ice-hockey to name a few, and we are talking about Canada. ITN Logistics is an international project freight forwarder headquartered in Canada, and they tell us an interesting story about what they can do in North America.

Finally, we return to Scandinavia to revisit an international Finnish trucking company with considerable strength in their field, both in Scandinavia and in Russia. Who if not the Finns know the Russians best? Silvasti tells us more!

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Mr. Dominik Keller, Head Global Development / Director – Member of the Global Executive Board of Fracht Group was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Fracht AG – Basel, Switzerland

Video Interview: ITN Logistics – Calgary, Canada

Silvasti Oy Ltd. – Jyvaskyla, Finland

Paul Lobas, Director at ITN Logistics was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with

Mr. Hannu Vuorinen Vice President, Heavy Business

Can you please tell us about the history of Silvasti and who the company’s owner is?

Our company was founded in the 1970s by Jukka Silvasti. At the end of the decade, we began projects in Kostamus, Soviet Union. In the 1980s, hauling iron rails for the Kostamus railway continued being a major deal for Silvasti and the company kept growing larger. By the end of the decade, we had grown into one of the largest special transport companies in Finland.

In 1989, our company was sold to John Nurminen Oy and became a part of John Nurminen until the early 2000s when Ville Silvasti, Jukka’s son, relaunched the business in 2002 by acquiring a small company that hauled crushers and earthmovers across Finland. In 2015, Ville acquired special transport back from Nurminen.

At the end of 2017, Silvasti acquired Danish special transportation company Frank Nørager & Co. A/S. After this acquisition, Silvasti became the most important player in the special transportation industry in Northern Europe, having offices in seven countries. Silvasti is a family business, owned by Ville Silvasti.

Have you much experience in handling oversized and project cargo? I know that you organise inland transport, but do you also provide solutions for the entire transport chain?

Yes, we do provide solutions for the whole transportation chain and we take care of every part of it carefully. We do everything from project planning and route surveys, all the way to shipping. We have our own fleet for heavy transports, loading and unloading operations. We have heavy trucks and trailers and we own equipment for jacking and skidding operations as well.

Could you provide us with some examples of projects that you have handled domestically in Finland, to or from Russia, etc?

We have been very busy in transformer transports during the last two years. Among more than 200 transformer transports, the heaviest was the delivery of a 315-ton transformer. That one involved a combination of transport solutions, including road transport with our heavy modular trailer, ro/ro-shipping and loading and unloading with our jacking and skidding equipment.

Silvasti has regular export traffic from Europe to Russia. Last spring, we completed a project in St. Petersburg including sixty-two oversize loads to a local coffee factory. Now we are busy with delivering project cargo from Finland, Estonia and Hungary to Russia. The destination is Russia’s largest domestic paper factory situated in Syktyvkar, about 1400km northeast from Moscow.

Special transports from Pietarsaari to Äänekoski bio product mill.

Russia is a huge neighbouring country to Finland and I believe you have a presence there. Can you tell us more?

Yes – we have a subsidiary in St. Petersburg, Russia. The benefit is that we work there in-line with western standards, but we have a lot of knowledge of local circumstances thanks to our continued presence.

What are the major difficulties when it comes to doing business with Russia nowadays?

The main difficulties in doing business in Russia are the regulatory challenges which we face. The process of applying for transport permits for oversize and heavy cargo is very complicated, as are the customs procedures. Also, the language barrier and road conditions have been challenges that we’ve faced. However, we’ve been able to overcome these challenges with our local professionals.

Why do you believe that Silvasti is a good choice when it comes to moving heavy pieces around?

Silvasti is the best choice when considering heavy transportation because our company is responsible, solution-focused, cooperative and flexible. We never compromise on safety, are not afraid of challenges, cooperate actively with our customers and operate flexibly.

How to get in touch with you?

The best way to get in touch with me is through the following:

E: hannu.vuorinen@silvasti.com

T: +358 400 640 6249

Alternatively, you can contact sales manager Virve Hyytiäinen:

E: virve.hyytiainen@silvasti.com

T: +358 406 845 295

https://www.silvasti.com/en

Port of Oskarshamn – Wind Turbine Tower Sections being Discharged

Editor’s Note:

Paid a visit to the Port of Oskarshamn, East Coast of Sweden on Monday and was present when mv Saimaagracht of Spliethoff was alongside discharging one of many tower sections for the booming wind power industry in Sweden. This will continue all over Sweden during 2022.

Editor’s Note:

mv Tian You of COSCO Shipping in the morning mist here at Port of Sōdertālje, Sweden. What is nicer than this kind of view on a cold morning with the sun rising before your eyes?

Wise Words

February 17, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 17th of February, and I am pleased to tell you that we are back, older and stronger than before.

Why I am saying that is because yesterday, on February 16, I turned 59. So, this will then be my last year in the “roaring fifties”. I wonder what is ahead for the sixties, so to speak. Certainly though, my age (although it’s just a number) is creeping up there. As a result, many thoughts start to come to mind such as:

•Have I prepared for the inevitable?

•Has my will been made so that no lawyers benefit from my not having prepared this in advance?

•Are my insurance policies and health plans up-to-date?

So I am spending a bit of time on that, but as a wise man said: “There is only so much you can prepare in advance.” I have some experience in the field now since I helped out a bit in the beginning when my brother left this world at the end of 2020. It is for all intents and purposes an eye opener. My advice to anyone not yet having done their “home work” on the matter of what happens when you depart: do it when there is time and you are still coherent to do so.

Money has a way of making people change their attitudes. Frankly, it doesn’t matter whether it’s close family, relations and friends, or business partners: many change their attitudes and unless you prepare in advance some stringent requirements in writing according to your wishes, the greedy or cunning ones may turn out to be “winners”, for lack of a better word.

Today, I am on my first, shall we say, “outside Scandinavia trip” for quite a long time. I am visiting Marseille and Malta for a couple of days each.

Malta is a nice place both to live and study in. Being part of the EU but with a location smack in the middle of the MED, it means that for shipping, logistics, and transportation (including flights to and from) it has an unparalleled location. They do observe some of the English “ways and means” such as left-hand side driving and lots of junk food available. Luckily, however, there is also a good portion of local and Italian-inspired food and wine both homemade and imported from the nearby island of Sicily among others. So do take a look at visitmalta.com if you have a chance. I Iived in Malta from 2003-2006 and still to this day keep a condo on the island which I reside in when it is not rented out.

Malta is also “famous” for close links to Libya for historical reasons. If i should compare it somehow location-wise it would be to greater parts of Africa what Singapore is to southeast Asia. The container port is efficient and has a huge turnover. I entered and departed from there many times when on board containerships as a passenger. Here are a few select pictures of Malta from various places on the island.

By the way, speaking of islands, there is an event taking place in Dubai next week. The island state of Mauritius is promoting themselves as a logistics hub—this time in the Indian Ocean. With access particularly to the east and south part of Africa, and with Malta close to the North of Africa, you may consider having an office in both island heavens! More about the event here

Right now returning to the shipping field, we have today some interesting interviews, as usual I might add, for you to listen to and read. We start off in the wonderful city of Hong Kong which is the current headquarters of A.R.T. LOGISTICS GROUP, specialising in railway transport to/from Asia and CIS, including Russia and also parts of Europe. Their owner tells us more, so well worth listening to.

After that we return to Sweden which is becoming quite a hub, not only for online games but also software development, and the company CARGO-PLANNER in the Swedish city of Malmo tells us about a program they developed for shippers and forwarders alike to increase space utilisation. Do listen to this as it might well come in very handy for you.

Finally, we return to the African continent and republish an interview we had with POLYTRA (now part of the Fracht Group), and they remind us about their long-standing experience in this great area of the world.

Before signing off and continuing my journey in the South of Europe, I remind you about both our recently published Yearbook and our PCW App.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Polytra Group – Part of the Fracht Group - Antwerp, Belgium

Tatiana Serova, Commercial Director at A.R.T. Logistics Group was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: A.R.T. Logistics Group - Hong Kong

Interview with

Mr. Amaury Luyckx Managing Director

Tell us about the origins of Polytra. When did the company start its business and what’s been its focus in logistics since its inception? I understand that you are part of the Fracht Group, so could you please elaborate on that overall?

Polytra NV was founded in 1974 by Maurice Velge as a spin-off of the 150-year-old shipping agent, Grisar & Velge. Since its inception, we have been focusing on three important departments of expertise: Project logistics, Africa logistics and integrated solutions (such as 4PL and freight management).

After more than forty-five years, we went looking for a player that would be able to offer us a continuously prosperous future. We wanted someone with a name and reputation worthy of Polytra that would allow us to continue our growth and develop our global footprint with the same values for our own people and our clients. Polytra found these qualities in the reputable Swiss freight forwarder, Fracht AG, and sold the company in 2018.

At present Polytra can proudly state that we are part of a family that is able to offer tailor-made logistics services everywhere on the globe with our own offices and with 1600 experts working in 125 offices worldwide.

We distinguish ourselves with our proven and rewarded professionalism, our passion, our commitment and last but certainly not least, the quality of our staff. To be able to do their job well, they have to be experts, leaders and entrepreneurs, all at the same time.

Polytra has a well-established name in Africa. Could you outline for us your current organisation on the African continent? Where do you have your own offices, where do you currently see the most development on the continent and what are your future plans?

Africa has always been one of Polytra’s most important divisions. We have been importing and exporting cargo to and from the African continent since 1974. We started in the Katanga region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) back in the day, transporting large consignments of goods. Over the years, we gradually expanded these operations to our current presence in Africa. At present we can proudly say that we are in the top three clearing and freight forwarding agencies in every country where we are active.

For over forty years we’ve had offices in the DRC, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa and from 2018 we’ve added the Ivory Coast, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Mauritius. This gives us a very strong presence across the African continent and enables us to provide logistics solutions throughout. Our teams consist of a healthy combination of expats and dedicated locals who are familiar with local regulations and customs and maintain good contacts with the local authorities. We are one of the few players that offer both in-house clearing as well as freight forwarding solutions with guaranteed European standards. We know the market like no other and are thus able to offer the most effective and cost-efficient logistics solutions.

For Polytra, Fracht Africa is the future. We believe in this massive emerging region and that is why we have positioned ourselves as the leading partner in Africa. Moreover, our clients push us to continue developing our activities as a reliable partner in Africa as more and more large players (in project EPC, power projects, mining projects, infrastructural projects and trading) are finding their way to Africa and realizing the importance of this continent for future developments.

You are used to handle project cargo and, with this in mind, could you provide us with a few examples of cargo that you have handled recently? For example, to and from Africa?

Many of our shipments go to countries that are not easy destinations on the socio-economical side of things.

This is particularly true in Africa, where the lack of infrastructure and poor energy supply require creative solutions. In some other countries, the problems you face have to do with entirely different ways of conducting business. That’s when our experience in difficult areas comes in handy. First you have to explore the terrain to understand the situation properly, from the harbour to the customs offices and the situation at the final site. This sometimes takes some hard work, but these challenges are what makes this work so much fun. Our customers trust that we will be able to carry out their project in good order, on time and within budget. In the end, we always complete every project to everyone’s satisfaction.

We recently moved a completed cement plant to the middle of the DRC (door to door – a one stop shop solution). We were rewarded with the transport of eight very delicate transformers to the INGA dam. We have been moving six massive excavators to remote mines in Zambia. We have chartered a vessel to transport mining chemical resupplies to large mines in Africa. We have transported a complete solar plant to very remote areas on the border between the DRC and Tanzania, for which we had to charter several small Antonov aeroplanes.

Could you tell us about some of the problems that you regularly encounter when doing African trade?

We are proud to state that we are working on delivering European standards in Africa. Nevertheless, poor infrastructure, continuously changing regulations, political instability and the lack of rule of law are continuous challenges that we need to deal with. Corruption still exists and is negative for everybody in the long term. For us, this is because it creates unfair competition as well as for the countries where it happens as it only benefits the few, while the rest of the country doesn’t benefit from it. We are very strict and clear on this point and we will never engage in any such activities. Compliance is, for us, key, everywhere in the world and especially in Africa.

Do you currently belong to any freight forwarding networks? If so, do you find it useful to be part of a network nowadays, given the larger size of Polytra as part of Fracht Group?

Networks, of course, remain very useful and we continue to support them. We are present globally, but the future of logistics remains in partnerships. Partnerships with your clients and with your suppliers and even with your competitors.

When did you start your own career in shipping and logistics and what made you choose this kind of career? What do you like about it?

I started my career, quite atypically, as an intelligence officer in the Belgian military, where I had the opportunity to visit remote and complicated areas such as Afghanistan and the DRC. Logistics was key for the success of every operation and also a main concern for us as intelligence officers.

After my MBA in 2010, followed by an executive master’s in supply chain management, I decided to enter the logistics world and, strong with my military experience, I wanted to do logistics in a challenging environment. As such, I worked more than five years in several places in Africa for large trading groups such as Louis Dreyfus Commodities and Trafigura. There I was tasked with organising the transport of bulk, break bulk and containerised cargo from the most remote areas, to several ports in Africa. The step to a group such as PolytraFracht was logical as there are not so many respected and trustworthy companies offering this kind of service and these kinds of professional challenges and opportunities.

Logistics is fascinating as it is in constant motion and evolution. Progress never stops and new ideas are disrupting old business models all the time. Logistics is extremely close to macro-economic evolutions and both are the center of every operation, now more than ever before. Moreover, worldwide logistics is finally getting the place it deserves and it is no longer considered a pure cost center but a real differentiator

How do you envision the future of shipping and logistics now that there are rumblings from several big ship owners wanting to be end-to-end forwarders too?

The end of the forwarder has been discussed for more than ten years now, but I still see a lot of fast-growing forwarders worldwide. Of course, we as forwarders need to remain agile and adapt ourselves. Although the core needs of most customers have changed very little, customer expectations are increasing greatly. There is no doubt that the success of a freight forwarder will not merely be decided by the size of the company, but much more by their ability and speed in adapting to the new demands and expectations of their clients and the market. In this new world, it is not the big fish that eats the small fish, it’s the fast fish that eats the slow fish.

I strongly believe that people pay for service, knowledge, expertise and surety, especially in this fast-changing world that disrupts our clients’ business models all the time. A strong and mobile logistics partner can make all the difference, especially in areas such as Africa and especially for project cargo.

For the more widely available products, the added value lies in the visibility and predictability and this is precisely what we offer with our 4PL control tower tool.

How is best to get in touch with you?

We are client focused, so you can always call and email me. All contact details are on our website: www. polytra.be

Video Interview: Cargo-Planner - Malmö, Sweden

Erik Törnblom, CEO and Managing Director at Cargo-Planner was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Mauritius Ports Authority

Editor’s Note:

As noted in the editorial, the country of Mauritius located in the Indian Ocean is promoting itself as a logistics hub. Might be worthwhile for you to take a look at what they can offer. Here is a short video introducing the country—and above all the port—which has developed further since this video.

Editor’s Note:

An impressive sight with the mv Biglift Barentsz arriving in http://www.smalandshamnar.com/ Port of Oskarshamn on the East Coast of Sweden with blades for an on-going project there.

Wise Words

MACS

WHATEVER YOU NEED TO SHIP

with MACS and STINN

nn es- lin i en. de

Rostock: sanmex@stinnes-linien.de +49-381-458-4300

Hamburg: hamburg@macship.com +49-40-37673– 01

Cape Town: capetown@macship.com +27-21-40534 44

Houston: houston@macship.com +1-713-8953296

Hamburg Bremen Immingham Rotterdam Antwerpen

Bilbao Vigo Leixoes Altamira

Houston New Orleans STINNES Veracruz

Lisbon

WEEK 08 – 2022

February 24, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 24th of February and the last Project Cargo Weekly issue of the month is here.

On the personal front there are quite a few things to do in the coming 3 weeks meaning that I will take a well deserved “spring break” from the PCW newsletter and be off until I publish again on the 24th of March. I simply need to recharge the batteries, spend time with my children as they have a school holiday for a week and some issues that require more fatherly attention. The logistics at home is often complex with different schools, after school activities, homework, language study, sports and somehow there are simply not enough hours in a day, am I right? Combining that with a bit of travel means that it sometimes collides and it can have detrimental effects if things seem to be going a bit astray at home. So PCW will be “off” for maintenance and repair which means:

1.March 3rd – we re-publish the PCW yearbook 2021

2.March 10th – off the grid

3.March 17th – off the grid

4.March 24th – publish again as normal

Last week I visited the French shipping group CMA CGM in Marseille. It was a good visit and they reside in an impressive building at the Marseille water front. They have a size-able special cargo department not only in their head office but also in their offices worldwide as they are catering (when space allows these days) to project cargo. Together with other reputable containership owners such as Hapag Lloyd are good at their job. Marseille is beautifully located in the Med where food and wine is superb, not least at the VIP lunch restaurant on the 31st floor of the CMA CGM building. I met, among others, with my good friends since my days in Hong Kong Mr. Ludovic Rozan and also the head of special cargo Mr. Stephane Berninet.

Then the following day it was time to come “down to earth” with Ryanair if you understand what I mean. It seems obvious that their website and online booking system is designed to make people unsure of what they booked, perhaps hoping they will click another “additional for a fee” before checking out. Still, a direct flight Marseille to Malta of 2 hrs instead of another routing with a stop-over adding 2-3 hours is preferable.

Landing in Malta is always a pleasure and it feels pretty much like home and I did live there 2003-2006 and kept a condo there ever since, which, although rented out most of the time means that I need to stay in a hotel, but there are plenty of those (and churches) on this historic island. People are very friendly but of course politics is fragmented, hopefully with the election coming soon some things can be straightened out and Malta can get off the “grey” list on banking issues etc.

And hot off the press today, Thursday the 24th of February, we have seen yet another example of Russian aggression towards an independent country. Perhaps there is not enough “lebensraum” “livingspace” in Russia? Project Cargo Weekly supports the Ukrainian people wholeheartedly but the tragidy of it all is that it will be normal people that will pay the price. We can trust that the oligarchs and powers that prop up the leadership and their families already are traveling on their 2nd or 3rd passports enjoying the living style of the west. We need to consider where we buy our oil and gas and here, Germany plays a big role – stop Nordstream-2 for good not just temporarily.

For todays interviews and due to time constraint I decided to re-publish 3 great interviews focusing mainly on AFRICA. So we have KENYA, SOUTH AFRICA and a shipowner regularly calling Africa, please read more further below.

Until next week, we remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

View the photo album from the trip

Interviews

Airwagon Cargo Movers Ltd. – Nairobi, Kenya

Jane, if you will, please tell us a little about Airwagon.

Airwagon Cargo Movers Ltd. specializes in clearing and forwarding. It was established in 2007 and its registered offices are located at the heart of Kenya’s largest airport (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport). It’s registered with KRA and KIFWA. Airwagon Cargo Movers Ltd. has a truly professional team from diverse backgrounds and a qualified approach combined with many years of experience.

Interview with Ms. Jane Njuguna Managing Director

Who are the owners?

Airwagon Cargo Movers is owned by two directors of Kenyan origin, namely Kevin Mutinda and myself. We both have previous background experience in the clearing and forwarding industry.

Can you describe the ports of Kenya and explain which ports are generally available for project cargo and containerized shipping?

The main port is Mombasa and there’s an inland port at ICD Nairobi. The main port currently has nineteen berths comprising of one bulk grain terminal, two oil terminals/jetties, four container berths and twelve general cargo berths. Recent investment in modernizing handling equipment, dredging of the main entrance channel and widening of the turning basin has enabled larger, modern post-panama vessels to call at the port. The port is currently ranked the 117th top-ranked container port in the world and 5th in Africa.

ICD Nairobi

Inland Container Depot Nairobi, owned and operated by the Kenyan Port Authority and linked by rail with Mombasa port, provides shippers with dry port facilities in the commercial heart of the country. It was established in 1984. The spacious yard of twenty-nine hectares, located in the Industrial area off Mombasa Road on ICD Road, can accommodate a throughput of over 180,000 TEUS per annum, making it ideal for shippers of both exports and imports as well as empty containers.

Customs Clearance in Kenya

Imports into Kenya undergo various procedures through Kenyan Customs and the Kenyan Port Authority during the clearance of freights and cargo in Kenya. All these are procedures that freights and cargo undergo and are carried out by Kenyan clearing agents and Kenyan Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs officials.

Is it difficult?

No, it’s not difficult and it’s very fast as long as you comply and provide all the required documentation. However, we experience delays if the Kenyan Revenue Authority system (Tradex) is experiencing downtimes.

Are there any golden rules to observe before shipping anything into Kenya?

Recently, the Kenyan government has introduced a new regulation for quality inspection at the country of origin for goods coming into Kenya. It’s mandatory to have all shipments destined for Kenya inspected and awarded a certificate of conformity (COC), issued prior to arrival. The government approved inspecting bodies include: SGS, Bureau Veritas and Cotecna.

One has to ensure that they have a COC in hand prior to the goods arrival at destination.

Goods arriving before the issuance date of COC will attract a penalty of 20% of CIF.

Below are the documents required:

•Commercial Invoice

•Import Declaration Form (IDF)

•Packing List

•Certificate of Conformity (COC)

•Bill of Lading/AWB

Kenya has a strategic location, bordering Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia and Tanzania. Is it possible to transship cargo via Kenyan ports to these neighboring countries?

The port is the main gateway to eastern and central Africa, serving a vast hinterland of more than 120 million people in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Eastern DRC, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Northern Tanzania.

It is possible to transship cargo via Kenyan ports to these neighboring countries, thanks to the implementation of a single window system which enables international (cross-border) traders to submit regulatory documents at a single location and/or to a single entity. Such documents are typically customs declarations, applications for import/export permits and other supporting documents such as certificates of origin and trading invoices.

Can you comment on the situations for each country bordering Kenya? Also, how is the current situation in Kenya?

The situations in most of the bordering countries are conducive for transshipment, except regarding the Kenyan-Ethiopian border and Kenyan–Somali border which can be volatile and always require a heavily armed military escort.

When did you start your career in shipping, Jane?

My shipping career started back in 2002, when I was employed as an administrative assistant in the shipping company. During my employment I learnt to do shipping documentation and clearance procedures. Later on, I enrolled at the Kenya School of Revenue Administration (KESRA) which is the Kenya Revenue Authority’s premier training school specializing in Tax and Customs Administration, Fiscal Policy and management. The school is one of the only four World Customs Organization (WCO) accredited regional training centers (RTCs) in Africa.

Do you belong to any networks currently and if so why?

Yes, we belong to three international networks, namely; CLC Projects, WBLN and WWPC.

The networks play an important role in international trade as they help us move shipments across countries, continents and oceans.

They also allow us to work together with other freight forwarders to save money, mitigate risks and maneuver shipments more deftly.

Could you provide us with some pictures of project cargoes that you have handled or that you are proud of having organized recently?

Two weeks ago, we moved a door to door shipment from Germany via Amsterdam airport to JKIA, Nairobi, Kenya by air, which was twelve tons for the United Nations Environmental Assembly Project (UNEA). The commodity was tents of synthetic fibers and steel structures to set up a tent structure which can hold up to 3000 persons. This was for the UNEA -4 Conference and One Planet Summit that are currently ongoing at the United Nations headquarters in Nairobi. This is the highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters and is attended by high level United Nations government delegations, faith-based organizations, corporate/ business and NGO youth forums.

Kenya has a beautiful visage. What places would you recommend the would-be visitor visit when travelling to Kenya. Perhaps some places that are not already overrun by tourists?

•Samburu Buffalo Springs & Shaba National Reserves

•Maasai Mara Game Reserve

•Mt. Kenya Safari Lodge & National Park

•Amboseli National Reserve

•Tsavo National Park

•Lake Naivasha Geothermal Spa

•Ol Pejeta Conservancy

•Nairobi National Park

•Nairobi National Museum

•Lamu Island

•Kazuri Bead Factory & Pottery Centre

How to get in touch with you?

Below are the contact details for the directors of Airwagon Cargo Movers Ltd.

Jane Njuguna | Managing Director

Air Wagon Cargo Movers Ltd

P.O. Box 23187-00100 Nairobi, Kenya

Mobile: (254) 722 167 738/780 167738

Tel: (254) 719 606 104/ 705 331 311

Email: jane@airwagoncargo.com

Kevin Mutinda | Director

Air Wagon Cargo Movers Ltd

P.O. Box 23187-00100 Nairobi, Kenya

Mobile: (254) 722979255

Tel: (254) 719 606 104/ 705 331 311

Email: kevin@airwagoncargo.com

http://www.airwagoncargo.com/

Frits Kroon is the name of the company, and it is also your name. Can you tell us the story about your company, when it was established, who owns it, and your main line of business nowadays?

Yes, I remember putting the key in the ignition of my first truck back in 1999. It was a one-man show for the first part. Today, we have grown into a well-established family and fleet that has spread its wings not only across our borders, but also offering a holistic transport service. We specialize in abnormal loads in South Africa and also cross borders.

Frits Kroon Transport - Johannesburg, South Africa

Interview with Mr. Frits Kroon Director

It is clear from your impressive website, www.fkt.co.za that you handle a lot of inland transport in South Africa and beyond. Could you tell our readers about a few of your more complex inland transport projects? What, in particular, do you need to bear in mind when doing inland, besides having the right equipment?

We move a wide range of loads, and most of them are not the same. Obviously, dimensions play a big part as this will determine the route and equipment needed. For bigger loads, we require our Telekom and Electricity providers to lift the cables over the roads we have to travel on, and that is always interesting. Some loads are too wide, and we have to consider low bridges.

Is safety an issue in South Africa, and do you need special permits to move OOG pieces in South Africa? Beyond which limit do you normally need to apply for permits, and how long does this take?

The safety of our drivers and the customer’s load is always a high priority for us. We do have to apply for special permits, especially for big loads. Other situations requiring special arrangements are weekend travel, police escort loads, etc. Permits usually take about a day or two, but during the COVID-19 period we have waited a week!

Tell us more about the equipment that you own? And being an asset owner, I take it that you have clients who are both forwarders, shipowners, and even direct clients?

We have a fleet that ranges from Link trailers up to Multi-Axles that can handle up to 300 tons. Currently, most of our customers are in Europe, and they are forwarders, cargo owners, and direct clients. Being in the industry for a while, we have built a solid reputation, and word of mouth has always been our best advertisement.

Do you also handle total international transport under the name of Frits Kroon say, for example, if a customer approaches you needing to move a piece from Germany to inland South Africa?

Yes we do. We offer the holistic package. We find our customer prefers to have one contact that arranges a “Door-to-Door delivery”. We handle the import & export services, plus all the clearances (landing, port, and transit). We arrange route surveys, storage, permits, cross border clearing, etc.

In light of the COVID-19 situation and the situation in South Africa overall, how do you see 2020-2021 in terms of business prospects?

FKT is registered as an essential service provider, as we move loads from the ports for the agricultural and mining industries. For the sake of our employees and our customers, we do as many loads as possible not to miss the turnaround.

What is next for Frits Kroon Transport?

We expanded our fleet slowly over the years to satisfy our customers’ needs. We also added a few services gradually to our portfolio. For us, the company is a family that should grow together, and we are in it for the long haul. Our next big project would certainly be to focus our attention to the BBBEE requirements.

How is it preferable to get in touch with you?

I am always on my phone! You could contact me directly on: +27 (0)82 884 1600 or at frits@fkt.co.za

First of all Samir, please let our readers get to know you. Who are you, and what is your background in shipping & chartering leading up to your current posting in Copenhagen?

I have been working within the project, chartering, and heavy-lift industry since 2008. I started my career as a trainee with Scan-Trans in Denmark at the age of 21. At that time, the industry was still surfing the wave of high economic reward, which quickly changed at the end of my 2-year stay at the office in Denmark, but nonetheless, Scan-Trans was one of the best places to be as a trainee. I was lucky to be offered a chartering position in Houston. I continued my training and worked there from 2010 to 2011. Thereafter, I relocated to the Asian HQ, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where I took part of the chartering team from 2011-2015. During this period, Scan-Trans merged with Intermarine.

Towards the end of 2014, with my son being one and a half years old at the time and my daughter on the way, we decided to go back to Denmark. I had a short period with Nordana in Denmark, before going back to Intermarine, which later on became Zeamarine.

At Zeamarine/Intermarine, we had a very good position worldwide, and we managed to create a very strong position within the Europe/Africa trade. This is not something I can take full credit for. My long-time friend and colleague, Morten Moeller had a huge part in developing this from scratch.

Since we started the dialog with UAL earlier this year, and after having met with the fantastic team in Rotter-

Interview with Mr. Samir Ferguen Managing Director

dam, it quickly became clear that this was the ideal partnership for us to continue developing the trade.

Who are UAL chartering? I believe you are shipowners as well as an independent chartering company, right? Tell us more.

UAL Chartering is part of the UAL Alliance.

The Alliance consists of the shipping line UAL (Universal Africa Lines), with a long-established liner service from the UK, Europe to West Africa and as well from the U.S Gulf to West Africa. We do approximately two sailings every month from Aberdeen, Antwerp, and Rouen to West Africa and the same from Houston and Vera Cruz to West Africa.

UAL Netherlands, HQ in Rotterdam, acts as the overall commercial agent for the liner service, together with the other alliance member UAL Americas, in Houston, which handles bookings from the U.S. Gulf.

In addition, we have UAL Nigeria located in Port Harcourt, with both commercial staff and operators handling our many port calls to Port Harcourt, Onne, and Warri.

Another member of the alliance is the K5 Freeport & Oil Centre, located in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The terminal is strategically located in Malabo, making it easy for oil & gas companies and offshore oil field operators to store their equipment. Also, from this terminal, we can easily feed to Nigeria, Angola or any other nearby places where there is a high production of oil & gas.

The latest member of the alliance is UAL Chartering which Morten and I started jointly, together with UAL, back in May.

You can say we have multiple functions. We are first of all in charge of the newly-established service from the Mediterranean and Black Sea to West Africa. We are, as we speak, working on our third shipment, and aiming at monthly shipments from Turkey, Italy, France, and Spain.

Furthermore, after many years of serving as the inhouse broker for UAL at DMT, Vijay Laxminarayan decided

to go on his well-deserved retirement, now leaving all UAL tonnage-chartering with UAL Chartering. On top of that, then we serve as a bit of the company ‘go-to’ department for requests that fall out of the scope of the regular liner services. In these cases, UAL Chartering will make sure to tailor a solution to meet the specific request of the client.

Lastly, we have a lot of focus on developing the group’s services to East Africa.

What led you to a decision to start up an office in Denmark instead of, say, Hamburg (unless you are there already, of course)?

The reason for our location is that both Morten and I are from Denmark. One could say that it would have been more convenient to have everything under one roof in Rotterdam, but we do believe that talent matters more than location.

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes? Could you provide us with some examples of projects handled and/or a few pictures of the tonnage that you operate?

The UAL Alliance is specialized in handling project cargoes and has for the past 50 years, been servicing the region in industries such as oil & gas, mining, construction and renewable energy. As the head of the organisation, Mr. Jungblut has been CEO of the group since 1983, and a lot of major projects have been serviced by UAL through this period of time.

There are many shipowners and operators out there. What makes you stand out?

You will simply not find a multipurpose / project shipping line who has been servicing Africa, especially the oil & gas industry, as frequently and for as many years as UAL. The set-up with offices and agents around the US, Europe, and Africa serves as the ideal platform and ensures timely response in the same time zone as the customer is located. Add thereto the group’s own terminal, K5 in Malabo. which has been of very high value to many of our clients.

Last but not least, the UAL group has got a great team of skilled professionals across all offices, making UAL not only a fantastic place to work but a fantastic partner to entrust with your projects as well.

Please kindly provide your contact information so our readers can get in touch with you.

With pleasure:

Office: +45 5373 1350

Mobile: +45 5373 1351

Mail:

General mail: projects@ualchartering.com

Personal mail: sfn@ualchartering.com

Web: www.ualchartering.com

Bumpy Ride Landing in Stockholm During a Snowstorm

Editor’s Note:

The return trip from Malta via Frankfurt (which is a very boring airport on a good day) to Stockholm was long. With a snowstorm in Arlanda, Stockholm and stormy winds we also had a bumpy ride. Not pleasant to depart +18c and arrive to -6c – but we made it.

Editor’s Note:

From my trip to Malta I can say that this picture epitomizes business and relaxation in shipping perfectly. Took the picture from my hotel balcony with unrestricted sea view.

Wise Words

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WEEK 12 – 2022

March 24, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 24th of March, and after 2 weeks of R&R (well, more or less), I am ready to start publishing again with this week’s edition of the highly acclaimed Project Cargo Weekly (PCW).

It is, however, on a sad background that I restart publishing because the war between Russia and Ukraine is still ongoing with hundreds, if not thousands, of innocent victims. First and foremost, it is the civilian population who pays the ultimate price, but also soldiers who might have been lured into this war under a “false” pretext. I guess we will never know, but there can be no doubt that attacking another country in the year 2022 using inflammatory rhetoric and under the guise of “protecting” someone reminds us all about a war less than a century ago that cost millions their lives.

If there is a “positive side” to any of this, for lack of a better phrase, it is that the attack has made others stand more firmly together in an alliance that hopefully is unbreakable by any means. Somehow publishing, travelling, and going about one’s normal business has a downside when thinking of the war as it does influence us all.

The war should be stopped, and the negotiation room should be put to good use. As far as I can see, they certainly have big enough and sufficiently long tables, at least in Russia, to host proper negotiations with lots of attendees and hopefully not only people who automatically says “Yes, sir” and “Yes, Mr. President”. As the saying goes, “none are so blind as those who will NOT see”. So from us, GO UKRAINE!

This week, I am in Dubai after a short visit to Qatar. Both countries here in the Middle East are more or less open for travel, and it’s indeed a pleasure to visit abroad again (abroad meaning outside Europe). I had many meetings with shipping people in both places, and with excellent food, positive moods, and lots of business happening, it is truly great to be back on the “road” again.

So without further ado let us dig into what we have in the way of interviews in store for you today. We start off in the country of the best French food (or so I am told ☺ ) but also of great ports, diamonds, chocolate, and wine, .ie., Belgium. DKT-NAXCO tells us an interesting story from their inception more than 100 years ago.

We then visit another European country — landlocked but also with a proud history and someone told me that it is actually the cradle of the best red wine (from where the French learned their craft), i.e., Hungary. MULTICONT in Budapest tells us about what they can do in their landlocked position in the very centre of Europe.

Besides these 2 fresh interviews we finally remind you of an interview we had with MILAHA, a versatile, state-owned logistics company based in Qatar.

DO download our App here or read our recently published 2021 Yearbook

Until next week, we remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Els De Saegher, Business Development Manager at DKT / Naxco Belgium was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: DKT / Naxco Group - Antwerp, Belgium

Video Interview: Multicont – Budapest, Hungary

Milaha – Doha, Qatar

István Huszti, Head of Sales and Business Development at Multicont Ltd – Budapest, Hungary was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Mr. Elias Abou Jawdeh Senior Manager – Commercial

Qatar has many projects ongoing and coming up, kindly elaborate on the services that you can provide, shall we say, overseas project freight forwarders and customers in Qatar.

Qatar is well known in the region for its Oil and Gas project expertise. Milaha has played a major role in many industrial projects with global logistics requirements. With extensive project experience and diversified capabilities obtained throughout the years of operation in changing environments, Milaha is able to offer a complete solution for project cargo – be it onshore, offshore or both. From air and sea-freight forwarding, to land transport and warehousing, we give our clients engineered door-to-door, logistics solutions, as well as offering specialized equipment and skilled labor for managing warehousing & distribution and oil & gas facility yards of major upstream and downstream energy companies. Milaha is THE Qatar project forwarder; when it comes to project cargo and tailor made logistics solutions for the oil & gas industry, we are the preferred forwarder that every EPC can count on.

What can you tell us about the ports of Qatar. Do you have several available ports handling project cargo? I recall personally that I once handled project cargo destined for Mesaieed. I think our readers would like to know about the different ports, or sections of port available in Qatar to handle project cargo.

Qatar currently have 3 major ports with main focus commercially on the newly inaugurated “Hamad port“. The port is managed by Qterminals which is a Milaha Joint Venture (Milaha has 49% share). The decision of which port to use is usually cargo determined when it comes to projects and of course the proximity to the final destination. Messaid port on the other hand receives all project cargo destined to Messaid industrial city strictly and in the North of Qatar, Ras Laffan port receives cargo destined to Ras Laffan industrial city.

The General cargo terminal in Hamad port is around 190,000 m2 with a capacity of 6.3 million freight tons and has a berth length of 1,200 meters.

Is the customs clearance procedure efficient in Qatar?

The customs procedure is done on a single window system where all the documentation is presented digitally. This makes the customs process extremely efficient and reliable.

What kind of heavylift cranes are available in port?

The general cargo terminal has a crane capacity of 100 tons and from the land side Milaha’s fleet of cranes range from 100 tons to 550 tons capacity.

Could you perhaps provide us with some pictures of project cargoes that you have handled in Milaha?

We recently had a project to move a boiler for one of our customers and Milaha provided the service ex-works Europe to laydown on foundation in Messaid in Qatar, you may find the picture of the Milaha team who handled the project.

How to get in touch with you?

You may reach Milaha through all digital channels; chat on our website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms. You may, of course, also contact me directly at EAboujawdeh@Milaha.com and I will be delighted to answer all your questions.

Australian Built Superfast Ferry Between Aarhus and Sjaellands Odde, Denmark

Editor’s Note:

Visiting Denmark recently I had the pleasure of taking the Australian-built, superfast ferry between Aarhus and Sjaellands Odde. I hereby share with you the nice experience: fast, comfortable, clean – but certainly as everything in Denmark – never cheap!

Editor’s Note: Nice steel Cargo project loaded to the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the US out of the U.A.E.

Wise Words

WEEK 13 – 2022

March 31, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 31st of March, the last day of the month, and Project Cargo Weekly is here again.

Last week, I spent time traveling, visiting both Qatar and Dubai. This week, I have returned to my home in Stockholm. Next week, I am off to Denmark, Australia and Kuwait for 9 days in order to continue to clear the backlog of visits due to the Corona pandemic — from which we are now slowly recovering and at least most parts of the world are opening up except for the place where it all started… China.

The Chinese leadership is seemingly clinging to the zero tolerance policy against COVID. Whilst zero tolerance is good in dealing with crime, corruption and such, it is beginning to look more like a “not losing face” policy now more than anything else. I spoke to a few Chinese contacts both inside China and overseas. Whilst they loath to say anything that resembles criticism lest they be labelled “unpatriotic”, it is clear that to many, the restrictions in place and the enforced lockdown with adverse consequences (such as death in some cases due to non-treatment in time) must be reversed. A virus has no borders and cannot be locked down, no matter what kind of political system you cling to. Proper vaccines, common sense, and gradual opening up whilst letting people go about their lives should be the proper way and seems to be so in most parts of the world.

The war is still on-going in Ukraine, and we are still experiencing tragedy on a daily basis. As we mentioned before, normal people are bearing the brunt of the disaster, and so it seems to be with every conflict, upheaval, war or crisis: the average person just trying to make a normal life for his or her family will pay the price for incompetence at the top.

This morning, I was onboard a ship in the port of Stockholm / Norvik arriving to discharge a load of cable drums. Among the crew onboard were seafarers from both Russia and the Ukraine. So yes, many are unwittingly caught by the war in the Ukraine even at their international workplaces.

It was a fantastic day in port as you can see from this photo album, and we thank DSV: the well-known global project freight forwarder; TSA: the local shipping agent; and Hutchison Stockholm / Norvik: the global port operator for this opportunity.

Without further ado and or additional comments on the rather tense and volatile political situation prevailing currently, I now turn to what is in store from a shipping point of view for you this week.

We start off visiting Africa and the country of Angola to be precise. An oil-rich country where the hamburger used to be the world’s most expensive (see The Big Mac Index) but also an interesting place for project cargo logistics. The company NATCO ANGOLA tells us more.

We then visit the country of mountains, beautiful nature, Mozartkugeln but also stubborn politicians, and it is Austria. The large trucking and project forwarding company SCHNECKENREITHER tells us about their business.

We finally let you off the hook with a video interview with a specialist involved in yachts and boats — and only yachts and boats. One might say that he would have many Russian-owned yachts to transport soon as they seem to be arrested in most jurisdictions of the world. FREIGHTeCOM based in Paris, France has an interesting story to tell as yachts are transported to and from some of the most wonderful places worldwide accessible whilst workboats, of course, are found everywhere.

We remind you as always to download our Mobile App with a drink in hand and enjoy our 2021 Yearbook

Until next week, we remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interview with Mr. Carlos Magalhaes CEO

First off, Carlos, can you elaborate a bit on the history of NATCO in Angola? How long have you been active in this mineral-rich country, and what is your set-up locally right now?

Natco Lda is an Angolan company based in Luanda. Founded in 2003, we started in the beginning deeply committed to the supply business of the Transorga Group, providing logistics services to the mining industry dealing mainly with the import customs brokerage, trucking and delivery of all the machineries and spare parts to mining projects.

At this moment in time, the company was part of the Natco Group Freight Forwarders which was established successively in the 80’s and 90’s with subsidiaries in Europe, the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia. Using that as leverage, the company has gained experience and extensive knowledge in the field of diversified transportation logistics and support as well as customs clearance in Angola over the last decades.

From there, we developed relationships in our country, gaining customers, acting as an independent provider of international logistics in the service of any client, locally and internationally, having evolved into a company mainly oriented to providing services in Angola. Today, we are part of ILS International Group.

What is your main line of logistics business when it comes to Angola? Can you also do transshipment from Angola to neighbouring countries? What about customs clearance—is that a headache in Angola or can you provide a few golden tips to our readers?

Since Angola is a country with no or limited industries, there’s only residual exportation. All forwarders are dedicated to the importation and logistics within Angola. In our case, sea and air cargoes are our main business.

Customs clearance, well this is the historical headache to African forwards, but fortunately we can state that this has improved much over the last years. Nowadays, customs clearance is running smoother than ever, compared of course with the past. Of course, there are still ongoing improvements. The current bottlenecks are mainly with government licenses when these are required.

Like in all businesses, the secret is planning. For Angola, planning and preparation is a must. We advise all to plan ahead not only due to paperwork that still involves any importation but also the deadlines that importers still demand regarding delivery dates of their cargoes delivered. All the world has changed due to Covid-19. You can imagine the impact this had on flights and vessels heading to Angola.

The Golden Tip for the Angolan market could be: It is best to have a local Agent, familiar with the local Angola government demands, which are constantly changing and should be updated to avoid delays and headaches.

How is Angola developed concerning ports? Which ports are the major ones for project cargo, etc.? What kind of crane capacity would you have available in the main ports?

We are aware of new projects concerning the new seaports for Luanda and Cabinda. When they are running in the future, facilities should be very good.

The main port to receive project cargoes is still Luanda, mainly due for several reasons. The majority of port calls are done via Luanda depending on port capability, draft limitations, project location and road conditions. Port Call – Commercial lines call mainly at Luanda and from there, serve the remaining port with feeders.

Port Capability – We need to exclude straight away Cabinda and Lobito, leaving Soyo, Luanda and Namibe. If we go for Soyo, this has been developed because of the LNG project but then, onforwarding could be a nightmare because Soyo is located in the very north of Angola, Namibe is the opposite—located very South, leaving Luanda in the center with the best infrastructure, machinery, and roads that can serve the all country.

Is the country stable politically at the moment, and “who” is currently head of government there? What kind of commodities are the main import and export items?

In our opinion, yes, Angola is a politically stable country. The MPLA has been in power since 1975. Angola imports machinery and electrical equipment; vehicles and spare parts; medicines, food, textiles, and military goods. Portugal is the main supplier of the Angolan economy (18% of total imports) followed by China, United States, Brazil, and South Africa.

On the other hand, exports from Angola are mostly crude oil (more than 90% of total exports) and small quantities of diamonds, coffee, sisal and fish. Angola’s main export partners are China (more than 40% of total exports), followed by the United States, India, France, Taiwan, South Africa, and Canada.

I understand that you are supported by the Swiss-based ILS group. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

ILS

International Logistics & Services AG is an international, freight forwarding and logistics provider with a diversified and flexible service portfolio. It is a Swiss-based company created to support the demand to An-

gola, where flexibility, fast reaction, reliability and a large experience in transportation & freight forwarding business are some of the key factors for our success.

We put high importance on operational excellence and cost-effectiveness in our daily work to provide our clients with advantageous solutions and added value. ILS Group does have particular emphasis on the African continent with its huge growth potential and can rely on a profound know-how as a logistic partner within the oil, gas, mining, and heavy industry sector.

ILS AG and Natco Angola provide the high standard service our Angolan Customer is expecting with flow communication from loading area up to its final destination. Therefore, through these combined services between our two companies, our customers are given optimized and customized logistics solutions from one single source, minimizing all doubt they could have in the whole import procedure. Natco also has our own, in-house, custom’s broker.

Our group companies comprise transport logistics, warehousing and customer specific services for full supply chain management. We are focused on individual and customized customer service, which is based on their unique business requirements. Our service package allows each customer to have one contact point even though they are receiving a holistic supply chain solution, for each shipment handled by our team.

Could you perhaps provide our readers with some examples of cargoes you have handled to/from Angola or ships you have looked after in port?

Aircraft Spare Parts – AOG for TAAG Airlines (Engines & Landing Gear)

Aircraft Spare Parts – AOG for TAAG Airlines (Engines & Landing Gear)

Yogurt factory –DDP from Lobito port to Catumbela

Heavy machinery –DDP from Luanda port to the mine location

Helicopters from factory up to client and returns

Are there many shipowners calling at Angola directly nowadays, and again, from a political point of view, who are the major “powers or countries” that are active in Angola now?

Presently, all major Carriers are calling on a regular basis to Luanda and some also call at Lobito and Namibe ports, such as CMA-CGM, Maersk, MSC, Happag-LLoyd, Grimaldi, UAL, etc. All them are connecting Main European Ports and North & South American Ports to Angola.

From the Far & Middle-East, we can count on the support of Maersk, MSC, Hoegh-Lines, MOL, OCCL, etc. Definitely, a major market is ex Europe. and Belgium and Portugal are the main provided countries. This is the reason we recently opened ILS Portugal.

I remember some years ago the capital, Luanda was the most expensive on the McDonalds Hamburger price index worldwide. How about now?

I remember those days! Well definitely, since the oil prices used in those days are gone, Angola is passing through a serious financial crisis. All sectors of our economy have been trying to adjust themselves to this new reality for the past few years, which is of course a very difficult mountain to climb.

In a nutshell, a lack of foreign currency and a strangled economy lead to serious adjustments in revenues, cutting costs in personal and benefits, especially for expats. There has also been huge inflation and tremendous losses for the companies with parity. This all led to today’s reality: low salaries, realistic house prices, and with the kwanza’s tremendous devaluation [Ed. Note: the Kwanze is Angola’s current currency], the prices today are really cheap.

Please tell our readers how best to reach you?

Carlos Magalhaes

magalhaes@interlogserv.com

magalhaes@natco.co.ao

Myself and all our support team can be easily reached through the CLC Projects networks and also visiting our web pages

NATCO ANGOLA www.natco.co.ao

ILS – AG Swiss www.interlogserv.com

Internationale Spedition Schneckenreither – Ansfelden, Austria

Christian, could you tell our readers a bit about the history of Schneckenreither?

As with so many family-owned businesses, it started with humble beginnings in 1960 with one truck in Ansfelden which is geographically more or less in the middle of Austria. Over the years it expanded and is now run by the 2nd generation. Schneckenreither currently has 500+ employees, a fleet of 170 of their own trucks, 115 000 sq. meters of covered warehouse space, and 14 locations in Austria. Our owners are still involved, and we have the advantage of a quick decision-making process from the top.

Interview with

Mr. Christian Fazekas Partner Management

What is your main line of business concerning logistics nowadays? I understand your company is now expanding more into overseas project logistics as well, right?

Yes, the backbone, of course, is trucking and warehousing (also temperature-controlled), and we are now going deeper into Air & Ocean as well as smaller projects. Using our local big footprint makes sense. The connections we built over the years in the trucking business, we utilize in other segments as well. It is, for example, not so easy to get listed with certain clients, but due to the fact that we have been working on the trucking side for many years with them, we also have access to bid on projects and overseas business.

Austria is a landlocked country. Which ports do you mainly use for import/export? Are you also sometimes using the Danube River?

The main port we are using is Hamburg. The Danube river is an alternative but is more for bulk cargo as well as projects.

What is your own background in logistics? I understand that you have been based abroad for quite a few years before moving back to your native Austria?

Yes, I grew up, so to speak, in Logistics, and I am now in my 35th year in the industry. I have seen a lot, but I guess if I stay another 35 years in Logistics, I still won’t have seen it all. The journey started in Austria and included the Olympic Winter Games 2002 in Salt Lake City Then, the Middle East until 2007 and after that East Africa until 2018. Now, I am finally back to where it all began. It is and was an amazing journey, and I guess once you’ve survived the first couple of years in the Logistics field, you find that you can’t let go of it.

What about the strengths of Schneckenreither? What can you tell us?

The clear strength is that we have short decision-making processes and own assets. So, if we need to make it work, we make it work. This benefits our clients as well as our partners. We don’t promise things we can’t do. At the moment, warehouse space is tight everywhere. Clients changed their strategies after COVID and now the situation in the Ukraine. So, it’s good to have a bit of stock within the country when getting containers and trucks when needed does not always go smoothly.

How is it best for our readers to get hold of you?

Best is always per email: Christian.fazekas@schneckenreither.com

Tel: +436648192440

WhatsApp +436802027164

Website: https://www.schneckenreither.com/

Video Interview: FREIGHTeCOM – Yacht Transport – Paris, France

Henry-Philippe Montazel, President & CEO at FREIGHTeCOM was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Arriving Fremantle, WA, Australia onboard CMA CGM Georgia

Editor’s Note:

As I shall be in Perth & Fremantle, Australia between 9-14 of April and the place is indeed very far away I share with you here a video clip that I took 3 years ago when I arrived there by ship from Port Kelang / Westport.

Editor’s Note:

A great picture showing the value of networking between:

Ms. Meryka Groenewald from C. Steinweg, South Africa

Mr. Ali Raza from COSCO Breakbulk, U.A.E.

Mr. Murali from MBM Logistics, U.A.E. and myself Bo H Drewsen, Editor in Chief of PCW and Chairman of CLC Projects Group

It is so much better meeting them all face-to-face in a nice restaurant instead on a zoom call. Go away corona!!!

Wise Words

HEAVYLIFT & PROJECT CHARTERING

WORLDWIDE PROJECT FORWARDING & TOTAL LOGISTICS PORT AGENCY

In all Croatian ports Slovenia & Montenegro

RIJEKA, CROATIA ZAGREB, CROATIA

BREDA, THE NETHERLANDS

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

WEEK 14 – 2022

April 7, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 7th of April, 2022 and we are here again.

I have just sent out invites for my 60th birthday which happens on February 16, 2023 on the island of Malta. It’s a bit early and perhaps premature to send out invites. On the other hand, I have found that many make plans quite a long time in advance — particularly now that Corona restrictions are easing, there is a pent-up demand to travel.

I certainly belong to this category and am slated for departure for Australia and Kuwait tomorrow (April 8). So Corona permitting, I am departing on Qatar Airways via Doha to Perth.

I will also be present at the Breakbulk Expo in Rotterdam during the 17-19th of May. If anyone wishes to meet me personally, then please make a note that I will be “hanging around” the Hoegh Autoliners booth no. B24-C25 Hall 2 on both the 18th and 19th of May between 11am and 12 noon.Other than attending the event as the Editor of PCW I am also representing www.clcprojects.com and www.cross-ocean.com. It will be my pleasure to meet anyone for a face-to-face talk.

On the home front, I am happy to announce that I signed a full agreement with the local dragon (aka Chinese wife at home) to book my next trip on board a freighter. Corona and restrictions permitting, I shall be onboard one of the breakbulk vessels of M.A.C.S (https://www.macship.com/) from Hamburg to Cape Town during the 4th week of July. Given that I am allowed by the dragon to take such a trip every 2 years, I will enjoy it to the full. I miss being onboard with books, solitude, and a 360 degree view of the ocean. Why don’t you check out https://www.cross-ocean.com/ocean-voyages/ where I do offer such trips to anyone.

Businesswise, we have some interesting interviews in store for you today. We start off in the country of samba, steaks, Iguazu and Amazonas, and that is, of course, the great “continent” of Brazil – BRASIL PROJECTS is a well established and experienced reliable project freight forwarder able to deal with the intricacies of trans-

port in this vast country, not to mention their very complicated customs procedures.

We then visit a place where I used to live for a few years, i.e., Malta, and we speak to a family-owned company called THOMAS SMITH which offers shipping agency and project freight forwarding also in transit via Malta.

We finally visit one of my favourite countries with some of the most beautiful women in the world (editor’s opinion): Poland. EAS International in Poland tells us what they can do, not only for sea freight but also for airfreight solutions in and out of the huge European country to whom we owe a big debt of gratitude for taking good care of Ukrainian refugees in the last couple of months.

Until next week when I shall be writing to you from the Port of Fremantle, Western Australia, soaking up the sun and no doubt a couple of pints of VB mate…!

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Thomas Weitmann, MD & Majority Shareholder at Brasil Projects was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Brasil Projects – São Paulo, Brazil

Video Interview: Thomas Smith – Valletta, Malta

EAS International – Warsaw, Poland

Ramon Azzopardi, Business Development and Project Manager at Thomas Smith was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Ms. Jolanta Schmidt Sea Freight Operations Manager

The history of EAS, Jolanta. What can you tell us about it? Who owns the company?

EAS International is a family-owned company, established in 1988 as EMERGENCY AIRFREIGHT SYSTEM INTERNATIONAL SAS in Paris, France. So for more than 30 years, EAS has been a time-critical, logistics specialist. We provide a full scope of forwarding services – airfreight, seafreight, and road and rail freight. We also offer Customs brokerage services.

EAS International belongs to Herport Group, which is a representative logistics operator, offering a full range of services in the field of customs clearance and transport in all countries of the world, whatever the type of freight. The CEO of EAS is Mr. Olivier Hennequin. In Poland, our Managing Director and Board Member is Mr. Adam Komorowski located in Warsaw, and Mr. Marco Muggianu is located in Paris.

We are strong in airfreight services: we offer services not only for standard shipments, but also on-board courier, express shipments.

As far as ocean freight is concerned, EAS International offers comprehensive seafreight shipping services via a worldwide network for FCL and LCL shipments, break bulk, project logistics, dangerous wastes logistics, and specific hazardous goods transportation.

We also offer road freight within Europe and rail service on the New Silk Route.

When was the branch in Poland established, and currently, what is the main line of logistics business that you perform?

EAS was established in Poland in 2019 and was known for the time being mainly an air freight and road freight forwarder, dealing especially with clients from the Automotive sector and Electronics, but also Fashion and Pharma.

But the company policy is to serve all forwarding services also in Poland, so I’m here ☺ .

I joined the organization in February but have already arranged many FCL and LCL shipments. Project cargo shipments are also already scheduled for April.

Have you experience in handling oversized and project cargoes? Could you provide us with a few examples?

Yes, in my previous business life. I worked many years in UTi Worldwide (now acquired by DSV) where we handled project shipments for the Ministry of Defence. These shipments were not only big in size, but also dangerous goods at the same time, including military vehicles, so they were really interesting shipments.

After UTi, I got more experience at Fracht FWO Polska (Fracht AG Group) and Logfret Poland where we handled a lot of project cargo shipments, ie. transformers, generators, heavy machines for production lines, and deliveries for the Energy sector.

I used to arrange export / import operations via Polish ports but also via ports in western Europe, Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Antwerp and Rotterdam.

What are the main ports used for import/export in Poland? Also, further to the current political situation with Russia/Ukraine and the subsequent termination of railway services, how are you coping with this?

The main ports for Polish import / export shipments are Gdansk and Gdynia. However, for clients located in the western part of Poland, we often use Hamburg or Bremerhaven.

Considering the current political situation with Russia / Ukraine, we are seeing a significant increase of interest in ocean freight, instead of rail. Some rail operators still offer departures from China, but most clients are afraid of blockades of borders.

Poland has a very strategic location in Europe – the easiest transportation way from East to West is via our territory, so the New Silk Route was really popular. Today however, only a few clients decide to move goods via rail.

Poland is a big country in both Europe and the EU. How big is your population, and how has Corona affected your daily life in business?

Our population is around 38 million. Of course, Corona affected our daily life in business. In the field of transport, I think ocean freight is the most important for the world economy, so therefore, any unexpected changes significantly affect the entire supply chain. Shipping lines saw a reduced number of vessels and announced blank sailings. Port operations were strongly hit by Corona, as ports were sometimes blocked for many days. All this caused huge delays and rate increases.

Significant rate increases resulted in reduced client orders of goods with low margin or they switched for some time to rail freight, while those rates were even more competitive.

Now, again, clients prefer ocean freight, but this is related to the war and uncertain situation on the rail.

How is it best for our readers to get in touch with you?

The easiest way is to send an email, call or send a WhatsApp message per the details below:

Jolanta.Schmidt@eas-intl.com

Mob +48 798 398 993

Website: http://www.eas-intl.com/

mv Pacific Fortitude in Hutchison Port of Stockholm / Norvik

Editor’s Note:

mv Pacific Fortitude in Hutchison Port of Stockholm / Norvik last week discharging cable drums from Asia. Filmed by a human not by a drone, from high-up on the giant STS crane that was engaged in discharge operations.

Editor’s Note:

An incredible view from one of the giant STS cranes in Hutchison Port of Stockholm / Norvik last week.

Wise Words

April 14, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 14th of April, and I am writing to you from Perth, Australia.

It’s been a couple of years since I last visited this beautiful place, but I am also reminded just how far away Perth is. The state of WA / Australia is similar to the size of Western Europe and is famous for scenery, wine, mining and whatever you can dig out of the ground you can sell to China….well almost. It is, of course, typical for such an area that there is boom and bust. Right now, there seems to be a boom again with prices going up and plenty of jobs available.

Visiting here is great, and I had several nice meetings, lunches, and dinners. There seems to be a positivity here as WA now also gradually is coming out of the Corona lockdown. I am flying back to Stockholm tonight and will be home after some 20 hours of flight. Also taking into account the 6-hour time difference, it makes for quite an ordeal, but luckily, I am for once in front and using Qatar Airways which does make your flight pleasant.

A couple of friends of mine from Sydney and Brisbane flew in to Perth to meet me, and considering that their flight was about 5 hrs in the same country, it makes you remember the true size of the continent of Australia. It is indeed, in many ways, the lucky country, and somehow it is still a magnet for many who have tired of the “old” continent of Europe. On the other hand, there are plusses and minuses everywhere, and we can’t have everything in life, right? I also have to admit that being away from the children at home is getting more and more difficult, so yes, the old saying “east, west home is best” is indeed true.

Last time I was in Fremantle (which is the main port city to Perth) it was 2019. I arrived aboard a container ship as a passenger together with my daughter, and we then continued on to Melbourne where we disembarked. A few selected pictures from that trip here, reaching Fremantle after 12 days of sailing from Port Kelang. It was a fantastic trip, I was (and still am) proud that my daughter, now 20, enjoyed the trip with her “old man” as well.

Back to business and our usual interviews. This week, we “visit” Libya, Mongolia and Australia.

We start off by talking to an expert with a wealth of experience living and working in the country of Libya. He is normally based in Malta but has spent much time early in this oil-rich but somehow war-torn country. That makes the interview with ALAJEAL OIL SERVICES interesting.

Mongolia is a landlocked country sandwiched between China and Russia. It is the place where the master ruler Genghis Kahn originates from. We hear from a local project freight forwarder called INFINITY TM in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and they tell an interesting story.

We finally re-publish an interview with LOBO LOGISTICS in Brisbane, Australia in honour of the owner coming all the way to Perth to visit me here.

Until next week when I am back in Europe, Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Etienne Vassallo, Offshore & Technical Assistance Director at Alajeal Oil Services was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Alajeal Oil Services - Tripoli, Libya

Naranbaatar (Nikkie) Chantuu Logistics & General Manager

First of all Nikkie, could you tell our readers about the history of TM Infinity, Mongolia?

We are a Mongolian customs’ licensed freight forwarding and cargo handling company with the name TM Infinity, registered in January 2019.

At TM Infinity, we meet all your global transportation needs at the best rates (very competitive). Whether you are flying any item no matter how sensitive, for instance general cargo and shipment from your country or vise-versa, you can count on us to get your cargo where it’s going to, on time and its safety guaranteed.

TM Infinity LLC is an International Freight Forwarding company providing a broad range of services in the field of transportation. By choosing TM Infinity LLC, you have selected a firm that has built its reputation on the highest service standards facilitated by an experienced organization. We are offering comprehensive international and domestic transport logistics services to our customers, using all kinds of transportation (such as rail, air, sea and auto); our specialist knowledge and skills; and a network of over 200 agents which are located in over 90 countries of the world.

With the aim of being the best choice in international freight forwarding service, we will be engaged in self-development and being professionals permanently, by providing reliable service that meets quality standards and a constantly improving satisfaction of the interested parties.

Interview with Mr.

Our specialists are selected professionals who have many years working experience in the transport sector. We have built up the broadest network of transport agents all over the world. We have a fast and trusty service. Also, we can quickly organize any freight from all over the world by any transportation.

We strongly believe that TM Infintity LLC will be a great professional choice to connect landlocked Mongolia by transport and logistics with all other countries, as well as reliable service to bring you business success.

Our freight forwarding services include:

•Custom Brokerage

•Shipping and vice-versa to most world-wide locations

•Freight Forwarding Consultancy

•Cargo Consolidation World-wide

•Warehousing Services, Distribution and Delivery

•General Supplies

•Qualified personnel for handling dangerous goods

•Logistics

•Option of carriers based on your cargo needs

•Merchants

•Door to Door services

Mongolia is a landlocked country. Enlighten our readers about the best way to reach Mongolia. I suppose that the gateway via the Chinese port of Tianjin is the best? Is trucking an option from the Chinese port to Mongolia, and do you need to transload the cargo on the border?

The port of Tianjin is an important transportation and logistics center for Beijing, the capital of China, and for our landlocked country. Covering an area of 121 square kilometers, and one of the world’s 10 largest seaports, Tianjin has 217 cargo ports along 32 kilometers of coastline. As far as we know,the Chinese port of Xinjiang (Tianjin) has stopped importing goods to Mongolia. Currently, more than 4,000 containers have been delayed. As a result, the number of containers shipped from third countries is increasing day by day.

COSCO Shipping Lines, Mongolia’s largest shipping company, and other shipping companies are continuing to change container lease conditions, pricing, and tariff policies for containers expected to move at the port and for new containers at the port due to the situation at the Chinese port of Xinjiang (Tianjin). The shipping

Nikkie Ch Naranbaatar Head of Project Logistics and Sales – In this position from 2019 working for TM Infinity LLC and working in this field for 10 years.

companies, which account for the majority of container traffic to Mongolia, have been increasing the price of containers several times in advance since May of last year due to the longer service life of the container, leading to a sharp increase in total shipping prices. In addition, due to overcrowding at Tianjin and other ports in China, many unforeseen additional costs have been added to the cost of transporting goods from China to Mongolia such as those associated with container storage, rental costs, and the transfer of containers from site to site due to overcrowding. The issue of charging from freight forwarding companies is widespread. The situation in 2021-2022 is unprecedented in the history of the transport and logistics sector of Mongolia. Since the middle of the 1st quarter of 2022, we have been using trucking options from transit ports and main export goods. Transload by train we are doing on the Mongolian side of the custom board, mostly for transshipment.

Mongolia is a very huge country located between Russia and China. Business-wise and logistics-wise, how is the efficiency of transit nowadays between Mongolia and your two neighbors? Can you elaborate a bit on this and perhaps also provide some advice to our readers about the best way and practice to either export to or import from Mongolia?

With the support of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Korea and the KOTRA Foreign Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, the Korean Knowledge Sharing Program will develop Mongolia’s freight, logistics policy and regulations, analyze logistics infrastructure, identify key locations and points, and provide smart logistics. Starting from January 2021, the aim is to plan possible system solutions, strengthen the capacity of Mongolian government officials and experts in this field, and develop a training program for smart logistics coordinators and experts.

How is the Corona situation right now in your country?

An overview of the economic impact of the pandemic due to Coronavirus infection indicates that Mongolia’s economy is likely to be hit hard by the epidemic and related traffic restrictions. In the first half of 2020, gross domestic product (GDP) decreased by 9.7 percent. In the first eight months of 2020, exports decreased by 16.9 percent and imports by 15.6 percent compared to the same period of 2019. Mineral output has declined by 25.5 percent. Another sector that is most affected by the pandemic is the transportation sector, which is closely linked to the mining sector. In September, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) cut Mongolia’s 2021 economic growth forecast from 2.1 percent and in March to 2.6 percent.

Mongolia’s ability to cope with and overcome sudden economic difficulties is limited. The country’s external debt is relatively high, accounting for about 70 percent of GDP. In addition, the maturity of Mongolian government bonds is approaching. One of the most important issues was the swap agreement between the Central Banks of China and Mongolia, which was scheduled to expire in 2020. In August, the Bank of Mongolia announced that it had extended the 15 billion yuan ($ 2.2 billion) loan swap agreement until 2023. In October, Mongolia issued a 5.1 percent bond called Nomad, raising $ 600 million to pay off past-due bonds.

Business Development Chairman / Board Member: Tuvshindalai .D (Tonny)

Has worked In this position from 2019 to present for TM Infinity LLC and has worked in this field for 6 years.

Do you have direct flights from overseas into Ulan Bator and if so from where?

Currently, we have direct flights by MIAT (Mongolian Airlines), Aero Mongolia, Air China, Turkish Airlines, Korean Air, direct from USA-LA, Russia-Moscow, Irkutsk, Ulan-Ude, Kazakhstan-Alma-Ata, India-New Delhi, China- Beijing, Hoch hot, Japan- Tokyo, Narita, Turkey- Istanbul, Germany- Berlin, Frankfurt, Thailand- Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea- Busan, Incheon, Australia- Sydney, Brisbane. Also MIAT signed a cooperation agreement with LUFTHANSA, for flight connections to other countries.

Mongolia is rich in mineral deposits and has a strategic location as mentioned before. What kind of minerals and deposits do you have in your country, and what can you tell our readers about your country if you should give a brief history?

Impact on the oil and gas sector:

Mongolia produces a small amount of crude oil (6 to 8 million barrels per year) and exports it to China. Crude oil exports have declined due to border restrictions and have not recovered much. In the first three months of 2022, Mongolia exported only 1.8 million barrels of oil, a decrease of more than 50 percent compared to the same period in 2021.

Coal exports:

The main export products are coal and copper concentrate, and mineral exports in the first three months of 2022 decreased by 30 percent compared to the same period in 2020. Mongolia has experienced a sharp trade shock earlier than other countries due to the closure of its borders at the beginning of the epidemic (late January 2020).

Coal prices remain stable. The main reason for the decline in exports in the first quarter was the closure of the border with China. Despite the reopening of the border (the Mongolian government lifted restrictions on coal shipments on March 23 [ed. note: 2021]), strict health requirements for truck drivers continue to have a negative impact on exports. By mid-July, coal shipments to China were close to pre-epidemic levels. However, total coal exports in the first eight months of 2021 decreased by almost 40 percent compared to the same period in 2019.

The Mongolian and Chinese governments have reached an agreement to ensure that China does not stop exporting copper concentrate from Mongolia. In this regard, there were no significant difficulties in exporting copper concentrate from Oyu Tolgoi and Erdenet (although copper prices declined in the first four months of 2020). The challenges of bringing foreign engineers and managers, who play a key role in construction, to Mongolia are slowing down the long-awaited underground development of Oyu Tolgoi. Drivers of trucks transporting coal and copper to China are required to undergo a viral test at the border and will be detained if they are found to be infected with COVID-19. If the number of coronavirus cases rises sharply, Mongolia is likely to close its borders again. This means that in addition to Mongolia’s copper concentrate and coal export costs, there is still a risk of significant vehicle access constraints.

Gold trade:

The impact of the pandemic on gold mining is likely to be positive due to rising gold prices, and the government is considering the sector as a priority. Although important, it is important that environmental standards are met and that there is no risk to government revenue generation. Most of the mined gold is purchased by the Bank of Mongolia and sent for recycling, which is used to increase foreign exchange reserves or to trade on the open market. Gold from Oyu Tolgoi’s copper concentrate is sold to a Chinese smelter. Compared to the same period of the previous year, the amount of gold sold to the Bank of Mongolia in the first quarter of 2022 increased significantly. The BOM’s chief economist attributed this to a rise in gold prices during the pandemic or a reduction in illegal gold trade due to border closures.

Mongolian Import (right) and Export (import) share in percentages by country

How to get in touch with you?

Here are my contact details:

Nikkie Chantuu

Phone: +976 80004209

Office: +976 76100001

E-mail: sales_1@tminfinity.mn, sales@tminfinity.mn

Website: http://tminfinity.mn/

Facebook Page: TM Infinity LLC | Facebook

Office address: #209 TI Business Centre, Workers Street 16010, 5th khoroo, Bayangol District, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Lobo Logistics – Brisbane, Australia

When did you start your company, Lobo Logistics, Alberto?

We started the company in February 2017.

Interview with Mr. Alberto Coll Director

Why the name Lobo?

Lobo means wolf in Spanish (my mother tongue), but there are synergies with the way we want to provide our services and those beliefs make up our code.

They are respect your business partners, adapt to the environment, trust your instincts, mentor the young generation, show no fear of the competition and always howl at a new opportunity.

What is your main business?

Besides the traditional freight forwarder business, we also provide:

International Air Freight – from a parcel to chartering the Antonov.

Domestic Road Freight – a carton, a pallet or large equipment anywhere in Australia.

Warehousing – 3PL storage in Australia and anywhere else in the world.

Project Cargo – a hands-on dedicated division for your project freight management.

Customs – from day-to-day clearance to import permits or complicated duty minimization strategies.

Biosecurity Consultancy – biosecurity inspections of sites and cargo overseas.

We believe that Lobo Logistics needs to maintain a different approach from conventional freight forwarding and, with that vision in mind, we offer a service that assists importers of fertilisers and other bulk commodities to start and maintain operations in Australia.

The service covers every stage of the importing process, including:

•Import permits

•Surveys at origin and destination

•Chartering

•Port agency

•Stevedoring

•Discharge operations management

• Warehousing

• Load-ins and load-outs

• Bagging/de-bagging

• Screening of product

Discharging in Australia

Could you please tell us about your experience and background in project cargo and logistics? What is your nationality?

I was born in Venezuela, South America and have been around international logistics and project cargo all through my professional life. I moved to Australia in 2002 and started working for companies such as P&O Nedlloyd, Maersk Line, Skelton, JBS and 20Cube.

I have been lucky to work in almost every field including: reefer cargo/dangerous cargo/OOG/liquid bulk/dry bulk and project cargo.

How is the competition in Australia and how do you manage to stand out from that competition?

The competition in Australia is fierce and if you play the numbers game, you are not going to win. We are a small office based in Brisbane, a major city on the east coast of Australia, but we have the experience and knowledge to attack every opportunity and have a hands-on approach to every job. I formed Lobo with the concrete idea that logistics services can be better. It’s simple – you do a great job and you get paid for it, you treat your service providers and agents with respect and you serve your clients promptly and by putting your money where your mouth is.

Do you belong to any networks currently in order to cover destinations worldwide?

I have been part of networks in the past with many members and I didn’t see any benefits, but, since working with CLC Projects network members, our reach has expanded exponentially and we have been supported by the network every time. These days, there is just too much risk in not belonging to a network, with scams coming from all directions. The CLC Projects team has always been very supportive and I intend to continue working with them for many years to come.

What is the best way to get in touch with you?

The best way to contact me is via email.

Our details are:

LOBO LOGISTICS

General Email: info@lobologistics.com.au

Office Phone +61 (7) 31181706

Address: Building 6, Garden City Office Park 2404 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113 www.lobologistics.com.au

Director: Alberto Coll

Mobile +61 (4) 32964507

albertocoll@lobologistics.com.au

You can also Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for latest updates!

Port of Stockholm/Norvik (Hutchison) with mv Pacific Fortitude alongside

Editor’s Note:

Hatchcover opening readying a ship for discharging cargo from the lower holds is always special

Editor’s Note:

Flying has started again and so also for me. Visiting Perth, Western Australia is a long trip when coming from Stockholm. But one pleasure on an otherwise terrible long trip was indeed the service from Qatar Airways onboard. Adding a candle to the light meal was a highlight of the trip and made the ambience on the long trip over the Indian Ocean even though bumpy worthwhile.

Wise Words

WEEK 16 – 2022

April 21, 2022

Dear Readers,

Welcome to Project Cargo Weekly; it is Thursday the 21st of April.

Last week, I wrote to you all from Perth, Western Australia, and I left that very same Thursday evening for Stockholm. I arrived as scheduled on Friday afternoon and slept some 15 hours in one go after landing. It was, of course, due to the jet lag and long flights… and not the triple whiskies onboard that the steward thought would make me feel happy.

In case you were wondering, I have now seen all the BOND movies available and one particular movie that took me by surprise — a movie called THE MAURETANIAN (on YouTube). The plot in general is about the unlawful and unjust incarceration of a Muslim who the US believed was a terrorist. Watching the movie unfold brought to my mind the whole question “What do countries really know about other countries?”

As much as America’s international know-how about the outside world is sometimes lacking (in particular among the decision makers but that is nothing new), the same goes for a couple of other BIG countries, their real know-how and interest in the outside world is often wanting unless those countries have something they want.

I always found that if you want to know something about the in’s and out’s and current state of real affairs in a country, then speak to the taxi driver, the barkeep, and people in the service industry. They pick up a lot of intel and know a lot more than many professional journalists.

Speaking of journalism, it is equally important that you make sure to read a variety of newspapers. If you only read the Washington Post and do not include the South China Morning Post, for example, how can you tell who is “right” when reading about the same topic? Most likely, the truth is probably somewhere in between. Many newspapers also copy from each other, and there is a lot of quote-unquote all through the media world. Unfortunately, there are very few “real” investigative journalists left. The few remaining are regrettably fair

game for the hunters — oppressive states and others who do not want to be exposed for what they are.

Of course, Project Cargo Weekly can be totally trusted and you never need to read another publication about shipping ☺.

Being back in Sweden with spring arriving makes it spring to mind that this, the most neutral of the neutral countries, is now seriously turning their heads towards NATO membership. With Finland joining NATO, would be natural that Sweden would join as well. Yet, a strong backbone was never the strength of either the Swedish politicians nor the police force. This is evident from the massive riots that rocked the country in several cities, making me realise that we have serious problems that we (or rather the politically correct establishment) have tried to explain away for years. Sweden, as most of Europe, loathes to speak about the elephant in the room, irrespective of what the elephant might be. If it doesn’t fit into the establishments view of the world, then it doesn’t exist!

Still all of the above, of course, pales in comparison with what the civilians in Ukraine are going through, and thus, it is always a reminder to treasure what you have when you have it … and then take that double whisky instead of single!

On the shipping front today, we start off in a place known for bank accounts in secrecy, chocolate, watches, mountains, and also as a hideaway for illicit gains by oligarchs, and it is of course Switzerland. We speak to FURNESS SHIPPING who tell us an interesting story about their logistics and liner agency from this landlocked and beautiful country

We then travel to another global centre for trade and finance, perhaps the most international city nowadays at the crossroads between Asia/Europe/Africa/Middle East, and we are talking about Dubai, U.A.E. INCHCAPE SHIPPING SERVICES a global shipping agency tells us about their business.

We finally revisit an interview with a most respected shipowner originating from the Land of the Rising Sun, i.e., Japan. NYK BULK & PROJECT CARRIERS, with newbuildings in service and coming, tells us what they can offer you. If you add their RORO services globally and their participation in ONE (Ocean Network Express) then you have a real megacarrier at hand.

We naturally provide you with shipping news, trade intelligence, wise words and featured video and picture of the week. Remember our App and our Yearbook 2021. Please also bear in mind that you are welcome to place a BANNER AD to support our newsletter. Rates are reasonable, we only allow 4 a week, and with some 39,000 receivers weekly, your ad WILL be noticed. Feel free to write to richard.holgate@projectcargoweekly.com for more info.

Next week, I shall be writing to you from the Big Apple, NEW YORK CITY, a great place which I haven’t visited for years. Got married there once at the Danish Seamen’s Church, Brooklyn!

Until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Video Interview: Furness Shipping – Zurich, Switzerland

Video Interview: Inchcape Shipping Services – Dubai, U.A.E.

Daniel Widmer, General Manager at Furness Shipping Ltd. was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Deljo C. Poulose, Sales Manager – Liner Services at Inchcape Shipping Services (Dubai) LLC was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Mr. Kotaro Ichikawa General Manager

First of all, could you tell us a little about the history of NYK Bulk & Project and in particular, about your project division—when it was started originally.

Our company (as HINODE KISEN, formerly) started a project/conventional shipping business in 1912. After 90 years experience in this industry, the company joined NYK Group and changed the company name to “NYK-HINODE LINE” in 2002. Subsequently, the company was merged with “NYK GLOBAL BULK (NGB)” in 2013 and renamed to “NYK BULK & PROJECTS CARRIERS LTD”. Now, we own & operate about 40 MPP vessels + 2 deck carriers in our project division.

Interview with

Do you have regular liner or semiliner services? What trade lanes would you say are of main interest to you and that you cover currently?

Yes, we have “semiliner” services to SE Asia, India, Middle East, WC South US, North US & Europe, starting the transportation from the Far East / SE Asia. Thereafter, we take the return cargo to SE Asia/Far East on a spot-by-spot basis (or sometimes COA cargo), in order to maintain the semiliner service. Apart from that, we’re offering tramper service as well, depending on clients’ requests.

Could you elaborate a little on your office set up? By that I mean whom to approach if someone is: sitting in The Americas, China & SE Asia, India, Middle East, Europe, Africa for rates?

We have several offices around the world. If someone is sitting in The Americas, it would be our Houston office. China & SE Asia is covered by our China, Singapore & Jakarta office. India and the Middle East are handled by our Singapore office. Our Antwerp office deals with Europe. Africa is also covered by our Antwerp office, but only for tramper service.

Each global office mainly takes care of semiliner & spot project business and the headquarters in Tokyo handles long-term projects. However, any global office may be a window for spot & long-term projects. Please feel free to contact any global office at your convenience.

Do project cargoes going via RORO also belong to your division or is that a different division altogether?

No, car carrier businesses are handled by NYK LINE RORO TEAM. NYK BULK & PROJECTS CARRIERS LTD. takes care of Project/Steel/Drybulk businesses with MPP/Heavy lifter/Deck carrier/Small & Handymax bulker.

Could you tell our readers about some of the major projects that you have undertaken in recent years?

Frankly speaking, the number of projects itself is recently decreasing. During the past 2-3 years, the major projects that we have undertaken are mainly “Power plant projects in Asia / India / Middle East” & “On & offshore windmill projects in Asia”. In past days, we used to be engaged in many refinery & LNG projects and have a lot of experience in this area.

Do you deal mainly with project freight forwarders or shippers directly or is it a mixed bag?

We deal with both project freight forwarders & direct shippers.

The ships you have in the project fleet, are they generally owned or chartered in, and what would be your typical lifting capacity with own gear?

It’s generally our own fleet. Our typical lifting capacity is 100tons (maximum 450tons).

Has the COVID-19 crisis affected your business?

Yes, surely. There were not only commercial issues, but physical problems like crew changes, port closures, changes of working style for employees, etc. However, about 1 year has passed after we faced the difficulties, and now, we have almost adjusted to the situation. We expect the market situation to also recover little by little.

How do you view the coming years (2021-2022) for the project cargo segment?

“1st half of 2021” might be still tough, but we believe “2nd half of 2021 onward” is getting better. We also understand some studies of suspended projects are being resumed. At our end, we are maintaining the same scale of our fleet, even after a very tough market situation during the past several years. Moreover, our new heavy lifters (800 ton lifting capacity), super eco ships meeting the IMO EEDI Phase 3 requirement for reducing GHG emissions will be also delivered in 2021/2022 as scheduled (1st ship: MV KATORI, 2nd ship: MV KIFUNE).

How would it be best for our readers to reach you?

http://www.nbpc.co.jp/global_offices.html or you can get in touch with me via; kotaro.ichikawa@nykgroup. com

Kwazulu-Natal Flood Death Toll Rises to 306

Editor’s Note:

We don’t normally feature misery, heartache and disasters but this time since it certainly also involves shipping we think it’s right for our readers to check out this footage from Durban which was ravaged by torrential rains and subsequent massive flooding. Nature is simply more powerful than we humans are! I was in Durban 1967 and again 4 years ago. Hard to believe!

Editor’s Note:

Sitting outside at the restaurant of Hotel Hafen Hamburg with ships slowly passing by is never a waste of time. Here a shot from a visit to the great city of Hamburg a couple of years ago, but it could have been yesterday, I guess.

Wise Words

April 28, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 28th of April, and in just a few more days, 4 months of the year 2022 has already passed us by.

This past week, I was irritated by a number of things. First I tried to get hold of my bank by phone. Not possible or “just now there is a very long queue and your number is 18” and “your call will be monitored for education and quality purposes”. Then, I called up my insurance company — as you and your kids grow older you decide to adjust things relating to insurance, property, etc. Same story here. What I cannot fathom in this modern age with fast internet and generally “smart solutions” to almost everything is WHY can’t you get hold of a real person to talk to? Are the companies so keen on saving on staff and just looking at their bottom line, so they prefer to let people fend for themselves rather than providing them with a proper personal customer service? What about the generation (that I belong to) that was not privy to the internet age and the day of Apps — who cares for them? Banks are becoming like embassies around the world: open only 11:00 – 14:00 except Thursdays and Fridays when they close at noon… or something similar!

I believe the situation is the same with some shipping companies. We are drowning in “smart solutions”. I believe strongly in having a tactic whereby you can both sort it out online AND you simultaneously have a proper and well-functioning personal customer service division with real people (not bots) that you can speak to. It really isn’t rocket science is it, or are we so dumb and gullible that we let ourselves be controlled completely by the internet? I am sure any would-be attacker has already figured out that if they disable the internet, the western world for sure will grind to a halt.

Phasing out cash payments is also a stupid idea. At least continue to have it as a back up so that when the “system” is down, there is still a way to go shopping. It happened not long ago for a huge daily necessity chain here in Sweden named COOP. Their system was either hacked or just broke down… and what consequences indeed.

On another note and on the issue of banks & money, I came across a very interesting video from the Financial Times about why London has become Moscow by the Thames or Londongrad. I think you will find it interesting for as much as BOJO’s rhetoric claims to be wanting to clamp down on illicit gains primarily by Russian oligarchs, still NOT much has happened.

This week, we have come up with very interesting interviews for you. Stackable containers: now wouldn’t that be a dream if it really could work and save you those millions in empty positioning costs not to mention the environmental impact more handlings results in? So we start off by talking to a company called STAXXON based in the US. They have a very interesting product soon to be launched in the market after rigorous testing.

We then visit the country of the Nile and the pyramids and the world famous Suez Canal (or Marlboro Canal as it was called in the past). Talking to NOSCO in Cairo we get a good idea about what they can do in this quickly developing country.

We finally speak to a shipping line that has made it abundantly clear that they are FREIGHT FORWARDER FRIENDLY and that is HAPAG LLOYD. Hapag has gone from strength to strength in the last few years and seems to have a stellar reputation overall.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Santtu Seppala, Chief Strategy Officer at Staxxon, LLC was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Staxxon, LLC - Los Angeles, USA

Video Interview: Hapag Lloyd – Global Special Cargo, Hamburg, Germany

NOSCO – Cairo, Egypt

David Piel of Hapag Lloyd / Global Special Cargo / Hamburg was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Mrs. Doaa Elhady Business Development Manager

First of all, Doaa can you tell us about the history of NOSCO? Who are the owners?

NOSCO is a shareholding company which was established in 1976 with the idea of providing services in the Egyptian trucking industry, especially the heavy haul industry. Throughout years of experience & with the competency of our team, we have managed to expand the services we provide to our clients so as to fulfil most of their needs in the logistics industry, whether in customs clearance, transportation of general cargo & container shipments, warehousing, packaging, freight forwarding, shipping agency, port handling operations, etc.

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes to & from Egypt? Could you perhaps provide our readers with some examples?

Yes, sure. We had the pleasure of being the logistics provider for several projects in different sectors that have served to boost the economic sector of our beloved country such as:

Oil & Gas industry: Zohr gas plant, Midor Refinery project as well as Expansion project, Assuit refinery project, West Nile Delta project, ERC Mustorod refinery project.

Ammonia Urea plant industry: Kima fertilizers project.

Power plant industry: Assuit & Damietta simple and combined cycles, Brullus power plant, Damietta & Shabab power plants, Banha power plant, Sokhna power plant.

Petrochemical industry: Ethylene & Polyethylene plants.

Railway industry: We have just successfully delivered the first train out of 7 trains, each consisting of 15 train cars from Alexandria port to Cairo city limits.

In addition to the above, please check our website www.noscoegypt.com where you can find more details.

Egypt is a country that is booming at the moment. What can you tell us about the main ports being used in your country for project cargoes?

Generally speaking, for cargo arriving from Europe and America, we consider Alexandria, Dekhila, Port Said & Damietta ports.

For cargo arriving from Asia, we consider Addabiyah & Sokhna ports.

However, the final decision regarding the most convenient port of arrival is based on receiving exact offloading site coordinates, as well as the packing list of the expected cargo, showing full dimensions & weights to be able to check route obstacles, bridge capabilities, tension cables that will be crossed, and finally based on our engineering department studies, we revert back to client with the best port of arrival.

How about customs clearance in Egypt? Is it difficult, and what can you advise overseas customers to take care of specifically BEFORE shipping cargo to Egypt?

Our Ministry of Finance has applied a new system relevant to the customs clearance procedures. It is the Advance Cargo Information system. The consignee must be registered on a platform called Nafeza to receive an ACI # after uploading drafts of the shipping documents ( PL and commercial invoice ). This ACI # is submitted to the shipper once received, so as to be included in the final set of the shipping documents & the shipper is requested as well to upload all shipping documents on the CargoX platform.

Of course, in the beginning we have witnessed several problems and delays, but now procedures are running much better & smoothly.

Our advice to our clients is to provide us with drafts of all shipping documents prior to their final issuance to enable our customs clearance team to check them carefully & to revert back with any requirements / modifications that might be needed, so as to ensure smooth clearance procedures upon the shipment’s arrival without facing any delays.

How is the COVID-19 situation currently affecting logistics in/out of Egypt?

Covid-19 was a nightmare which the whole world encountered two years ago & which had a very big impact on all the industries world-wide, not only the supply chain industry. However, considering the efforts taken by the Egyptian government & Ministry of Health through spreading awareness regarding safety measurements & precautions that should be considered & ensuring that most people are vaccinated, we have managed to return back cautiously to our lives as we have no other choice except to cope with it.

Are you currently a member of any freight forwarding networks? What is your experience about being part of such networks?

Yes, we planned this year to become a member in some of the reliable reputable freight forwarding networks & we have successfully became a member in 4 reliable networks.

We are actually pleased with this experience as it gave us the opportunity to expand our database and hopefully to gain new leads.

How is it best for our readers to get in touch with you?

It will be my pleasure to receive all of your inquiries / clarifications by email or mobile as shown below:Email – Doaa.elhady@noscoegypt.com

Mobile – 01220002269

Website: https://www.noscoegypt.com/

Passing through the Sunda Strait coming from Port Klang going to Fremantle

Editor’s Note:

Passing the Sunda Strait in Indonesia enroute from Port Kelang to Fremantle. Nice experience indeed onboard mv CMA CGM Georgia.

Editor’s Note:

What is not to like about this picture? mv NOWOWIEJSKI of Chipolbrok alongside in the Hutchison Port of Stockholm/Norvik

Wise Words

Complex has never been more simple!

We don’t just do planning and project management.

We give detailed advice and identify issues, before they become problems, without ever losing track of quality assurance.

We can do that because we have more than 100 experts, in Denmark alone, that make sure that you have access to the best transport engineering in the business.

We use our expertise in special equipment and infrastructure (and all the challenges it creates) to ensure the smoothest journey for your goods.

That means that we have o en surveyed sites and routes before your goods arrive. Just to make absolutely sure, that your transport is safe - no matter what the map says.

And when it comes to project transport, size matters. And not just the size of your goods - the size of our business matters too.

Our size allows us to have global charter services for both air and sea transport. That means that your goods never leave our purview.

It also allows us to be ready for loading and o oading where you need us to be. We have extensive experience

with barges, heavy hauling, crane, and skidding - and everything in between.

You can take comfort in the knowledge that we are certified ISO 9001, 18001, and 45001 - or the fact that we have done successful project logistics for more than 50 years.

We got you. Whether it’s 110 meters long, weighs 1000 tonnes or is 35 meters high.

Because that’s our talent – making the complex simpler for you.

May 5, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 5th of May, 2022 and I am writing to you from Houston, TX, USA.

I actually landed in the U.S. last Thursday and had the pleasure of visiting New York City first. New York has a pulse that is seldom seen in any other city around the world. Traffic starts early, ends late; people are rushing; but whatever you want in terms of food, sightseeing, shopping, rich and poor neighborhoods — this city has it all. Add to that a great location with access to the Atlantic, so besides being a fantastic city, it is also a great port with lots of history immigration-wise. For a few years now, my son has been working in Manhattan, so I had the pleasure of having him to guide me along. We had a very memorable and fantastic steak dinner at Gallaghers. I can recommend that place, but skip the appetisers because portions are huge, as are they indeed in most places of the US. I happily share here a bunch of pictures that I took during my Circle Line sightseeing trip around Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. With Queen Mary II alongside in the Red Hook Terminal Brooklyn, it did make the boat ride perfect.

I had my first meeting on Friday, the day after I landed (my arrival was delayed with BA to JFK). The meeting was with Professor Matt Malisiewicz of the Maritime College of New York at Fort Schuyler. Thanks to Project Cargo Weekly, of which he is a fan, he contacted me on LinkedIn. So, during this visit to NYC, Professor Malisiewicz was kind enough to give me a personal tour of their grand maritime college where future cadets are trained. See below for more info and pictures from this fantastic visit.

After enjoying the weekend in the Big Apple (and counting how many USD were left after…), I flew early Monday afternoon from JFK to Houston. JETBLUE (the airline I used) was quite service minded, and it seemed to me that the JFK Airport has improved quite a lot over the years. It is now more up to modern day standards, but as with around the world, when people are lining up for the security check, all available lanes are still never opened. Like I said though, that is a universal problem. Only Singapore seems to be able to efficiently manage security checks: efficient and fast check- in and arrival procedures.

Arriving in Houston from NYC is like arriving in a gigantic quiet village (at least downtown). Equally amazing is Houston’s size (get a real feel for the size from the images in this article), and I doubt you can avoid less than 45 minutes in traffic due to the distances between meetings. Luckily though, with proper planning, I managed to have about 4 meetings per day until today, Thursday.

I had a chance to try the local food here in Houston and with a southern US taste to it, i.e., spicy and Cajun-style, this city is really also a place where you might not lose weight easily… and as for living without a car – forget it.

I also had the pleasure of visiting the Port Houston Authority yesterday and meeting with Mr. Ty Reasonover who is their Sr. Trade Development Manager (Eastern U.S./European Trade) (porthouston.com). He was kind enough to personally show us one of their breakbulk terminals and the view from the roof of their building. I met Ty years ago in Shanghai and later on at breakbulk in Shanghai, and now he is here. Together with the CLC Projects and Cross Ocean service provider member Atlas Heavy Transport – Mr Anders Pedersen (atlas-heavy.com), we enjoyed a good couple of hours in port. See pictures from the port tour and a few billboards from around the highway system.

One thing I recalled from years ago when visiting the US is that the ambulance or accident chasers (i.e., lawyers promising to help you gain benefit from an injury) are still going strong with billboards in many places. It is a system pretty much unheard of in Europe and seems like a system out of whack as no one should benefit from anyone’s injury. Ultimately in a circular economy, the insurance company rate increases will simply be passed on right back to the consumers. But overall, visiting the US again has been a pleasure so far. There is a drive to move, good service in the restaurants, and generally, transportation as far as I can see works pretty well. Of course, what you see in a few days having meetings and running in/out of restaurants and hotels probably doesn’t show you the whole picture.

There will be more on the Houston trip in next week’s PCW. For now, I would like though to turn to what we’ve got in store in PCW Week 18:

Starting off in New York, we have a chat with Professor Matt Maliesiewicz, so carefully check out “Interview” 1 and enjoy the pictures, history of the college and how we got to meet simply thanks to PCW and then the LinkedIn connection and then the actual visit. Power of networking indeed.

We then re-publish an interview we had with Atlas Heavy here in Houston. Their looking after me this whole week does make me want to remind you about their capabilities in heavy haul transport here in the US—an area that is prone to huge cost surprises from many less reliable vendors.

Finally, we re-publish another interview from the US, this time with Allround Forwarding in Cleveland who tells us what they can do to/from and via the Midwest in this huge country.

I believe you understand the fact that due to running a lean ship in PCW, personal interviews are sometimes not possible to conduct afresh, especially when travelling. Still quality doesn’t disappear overnight, which is why we feel that you will be well served by the two interviews from the archives this week.

We provide you with our usual course of shipping news, trade intel and wise words.

So, from this, shall we say 100% USA-focused newsletter,

Until next week, we remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

State University of New York Maritime College - New York, New York

A Chat With Professor Matt Malisiewicz Lecturer + Researcher

Where is this one of a kind school for Maritime Officers?

The New York Maritime Academy (also known as SUNY Maritime College) is a nautical school like no other. Nestled on a beautiful campus right on New York City’s waterfront in the storied Bronx borough, surrounded by water, and overlooking the Manhattan skyline, it has quite a character that dates back to 1874.

What makes it so uniquely different?

It is not its modern ship simulators, nor its tech-enabled classrooms, or even its excellent faculty that makes the NY Maritime College one of a kind. What makes it so unique and strategically equipped for the future is its diversity and caliber of students; with their multinational perspectives, unique backgrounds, and a myriad of strengths that mirrors the vibrant diversity of the city which it calls home, New York.

What makes it so relevant, especially today?

As the shipping industry continues to evolve and face challenges that grow both in size and scope, the future of the maritime sector will continue to have a bigger and a wider impact on the daily lives of modern consumers and citizens. This reality has become increasingly clear to everyone in recent months, as maritime shipping took center stage, with containerization and logistics issues becoming hot topics and front page news. Hence, any company, startup, project team, or consultancy will require access to not only a more skilled and uniquely educated talent pool within the maritime industry, but also one with diverse backgrounds needed to truly understand the complex multinational problems that the shipping sector touches across all its modes, regions, and cultures.

The unique blend and diversity of thoughts, perspectives, and leadership that true innovation really requires is the key to being and staying relevant in today’s changing economy. New York City is unequivocally known for this, and so is its unique Maritime College.

What can the graduates of this school offer potential employers?

The hallmark of the program is built on core values of leadership, accountability, responsibility, respect, and

resilience. The main program focuses on educating and developing officers in the merchant marine for unlimited tonnage (world’s largest) ships that traverse the globe. Other excellent programs in the school focus on shipping management, oceanic studies, engineering, naval architecture, logistics, and more.

The exclusive graduate programs attract students with existing industry expertise and help them leverage their know-how into the maritime sector in truly profound ways. Nevertheless, when these strong skills are combined with new and novel perspectives, interwoven across multinational languages that the students often already speak, and are then exported across various shipping hubs in the USA as well as to every continent that the shipping industry touches, the alumni network and maritime community that the New York Maritime Academy is known for is truly unprecedented.

In short, the New York Maritime Academy, with roots dating back to 1874, is a school with a very unique tradition of producing not just superbly qualified officers, professionals, and leaders, but a place where captains are made, regardless of the fact whether our students realize it or not upon graduation.

They don’t only learn this from their teachers, but from each other, in a uniquely global New York way; a smartly diverse and deeply powerful way that brings shipping closer together.

Can the essence of the NY Maritime Academy be summed up in one or two sentences?

Video Interview: ATLAS Heavy Transport - Houston, Texas

Allround Forwarding Midwest – Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Frank Scheibner, President & CEO at ATLAS Heavy Transport LLC & ATLAS Heavy Projects LLC was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Mr. Janko Wille President

First off, Janko when did you start the company Allround, and tell us why Cleveland for those who are not familiar with its location in the US Midwest?

As a German native, I started my career in the US in 2010 when I was sent over to run the newly-acquired US branch for a mid-sized German freight forwarder. I had taken the position in Cleveland, Ohio and put down roots after a few years in the Midwest. Allround Forwarding Co. in New York City was my customer at the time, and after a management change at my current position, Allround’s owner, Hatto Dachgruber offered me an opportunity to jump ships and join the Allround team. So, I decided to move to the Big Apple, but whenever my wife and I came back to the Midwest for work or visiting friends, it felt like coming home again. Ultimately, we decided to move back to Ohio where I had opened the Cleveland office for Allround in the meanwhile. For sure not a hotspot to be honest, but here is where I got my first impressions of the United States and the place I now call home.

Who are the owners, and what business are you mainly involved in logistics-wise?

Our Cleveland office is owned by myself and operating completely independently. However, we still bundle strengths with Allround New York and support each other as if we were one unit. Our core business is traditional freight forwarding with a focus on air and ocean freight to/from Europe and the Far East. It started fairly small, but after a few years in business, we were able to add more and more to the portfolio. Today, we offer the full range of logistics services such as nationwide customs clearance, warehousing, and because of an increasing involvement in the high and heavy field, we have decided to join a new network – Cross Ocean!

What ports would you suggest our readers consider if they have cargo to/from the Midwest Area and overseas? Can you list some of them that come to mind, perhaps also by adding a few words about the pros and cons for each?

Being so close to the Great Lakes would trigger the idea that ports like Cleveland would be our first choice, but as much as we would love to support our partners locally, we only utilize them for a fraction of our business. The Lakes are not easily accessible for every trade lane, and the only time we really do have to go that route is because size or weight for a single piece would not allow us to travel longer distances if brought in via an East Coast port for example.

Personally, I prefer the port of Baltimore. It is a regular call for many RORO carriers, and since it is only a five hour drive from Cleveland, it offers the opportunity to be on location in case of loading surveys or simply to be on site when an interesting shipment arrives from overseas. In fact, we take advantage of that quite often to protect our own interests and that of our agents which probably brings us to the cons right away.

Surprisingly, it’s typically not the superloads which create major headaches. Most players involved here do know their roles and responsibilities precisely, and for the most part, things go smoothly. We see the challenges in shipments with regular legal-sized crates which arrive in larger piece counts. Way too often did we plan trailers to be maxed out and minimize the need for extra truck loads when crates then got misplaced at the terminal or loading personnel simply did not follow our instructions. Of course, nobody assumes responsibility when all scheduled trucks were loaded, and you still have some pieces left behind.

Thus, we made it mandatory for ourselves to be present at the port when such shipments come in. The fix to this is sometimes a simple can of spray paint to clearly mark each piece or ensure the trucks get loaded exactly as planned on paper before. Yet, someone (one of us) has to be on hand to carry it out. This not only saves us and our partners thousands at times but also gets us in direct physical contact with the goods we otherwise only handle virtually on our computers.

The Midwest is a large region though. We service the area also from other ports like New York, Norfolk, Charleston or even Gulf ports.

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes? Could you tell our readers something about some of the projects you have handled?

A few weeks after our office started in 2015, we had an opportunity to handle some forging machinery as a very first project shipment. With a couple of pieces ranging from 80 to 120 tons, it took our capability to the test. We were eager to ramp up the business and quoted aggressively which led to being awarded with a nearly half million dollar door-to-door shipment. In collaboration with a great partner in Europe, we managed to optimize the route and minimize costs by bringing the cargo into Milwaukee—as close as possible to its final destination near Chicago. It was a great success as we exactly met the estimated delivery timeline without any hiccups in transit. This fueled the interest in handling more project cargoes.

We have also partnered with some great fellow Cross Ocean members like the Transport Overseas Group in Germany or LS Cargo China for a number of years now. We have handled numerous shipments for the tunneling and automotive industry with them and recently even got involved in a few very interesting military projects.

The US is a huge market. How about customs clearance. Does that always take place at entry/exit ports or can it also be done at inland points? Tell our readers more please.

Customs clearance became huge for us. At first, we had a need to clear our local shipments coming into Ohio, and with a licensed customs broker already on the team, it just made sense to apply for a local permit which was quickly granted. That local permit allowed us to clear customs within the port district of Cleveland. So yes, customs clearance at inland locations is very common and even recommended to expedite the cargo flow from seaports.

When Allround then joined another network to increase its business activity in the general cargo field, it quickly triggered the need for a national permit. Today, we can clear customs at any US port of entry which includes seaports as well as inland rail ramps. Unlike many of our global player competitors, Allround always clears cargo prior to arrival at its destination port or ramp. This allows us to identify and fix issues with paperwork before a problem with that paperwork could lead to delays and, subsequently, to increased costs for our customers or agents.

We have taken over business from DHL, Schenker, K+N, etc. just because we were able to make clearances hassle-free for some of our customers who dealt with the big guys before. Another interesting aspect is the ability to support our agents to win new DDP business. Customs clearance is a pure service for the most part without much cost attached to it. Therefore, we and our agents can use it as a bargaining tool to win a new client’s business.

Do you currently belong to any international networks in order to conduct your global business?

Yes, we are also part of the WCA network for our general cargo shipments which is still the majority of our business. We are firm believers in “people’s business”, and deem it as absolutely necessary to meet business partners face-to-face. Logistics networks offer that opportunity, and therefore, we hope to become a recognized partner for fellow Cross Ocean members as well.

What is your own background in shipping and logistics leading up to your current position?

Shipping and logistics always played a major role in my life. It started in High School when I worked for a small trucking and warehousing company in Germany. For the most part, I got poorly paid, but for some reason, I also enjoyed it.

As soon as I had my driver’s license, they “promoted” me to a driver for long and short distance deliveries in a Sprinter van. From that point on, I was hooked on transportation and logistics. Same poor payment, but the idea that literally everything we need in our daily lives had to be moved by someone from one place to another was very intriguing.

At one point, I had to make a decision about what to do after school, and I decided to start an apprenticeship with Danzas (nowadays DHL Global Forwarding). It was an interesting time, and in retrospect, I was very

lucky to find an employer that enabled me to get insight into the many facets of logistics. I had a chance to learn basics in airfreight, ocean freight, import, export, controlling and yes…even sweeping a 4000 square meter warehouse for three months taught me to treat the many different people in our industry from a truck driver to a CEO with the respect they deserve as human beings.

After completion of my three-year training, I decided to study “international logistics management” for another three years besides working in export operations at DHL. As time went by, I was looking for new opportunities, and after being in sales for two years at another company I decided to take over their US office which brings us back to the first question of this interview.

Please tell our readers how best to get in touch with you?

I prefer to be reached via email: janko@allroundusa.com

Or via WhatsApp at +1-718-708-2115

Of course, I never mind a nice conversation over the phone either, but dealing with different time zones does not always allow that.

www.allroundusa.com

Exiting the Suez Canal Southbound Entering the Red Sea Enroute to Khor Fakkan

Editor’s Note:

Exiting the Suez Canal towards the Red Sea onboard mv CC Christophe Colomb some years ago. A wonderful trip and I hope that COVID-19 will soon be so eradicated that shipowners like CMA CGM start to accept passengers again, and I will book a ticket!

Editor’s Note:

State University of New York Maritime College training ship mv Empire State here alongside just below the Throgs Neck Bridge, New York. The vessel will be visiting both Portugal and Ireland for a training mission. Certainly a vessel up to the task of training cadets in seafaring and what it entails.

Wise Words

WEEK

19 – 2022

May 12, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 12th of May, 2022 and we are here again.

As you know from last week’s editorial, I visited the USA and the megacities of New York and Houston. My return flight was clumsy though, and I think I organised it in a way that would have been preferable only to people who like to fly a lot. Well, in a way I do of course but… so instead of returning Houston to London direct on the pm flight with BA, I flew at 0630am Houston/Chicago (so up at 0300 from my hotel) then a 2-hour layover, and then 2 hours to JFK (New York), and then another 2-hour layover before catching the American Airlines flight to Heathrow. I have slept about 2 days since I returned to Stockholm which, of course, included the 7-hour time difference jetlag.

Still it worked well. American has ok domestic service and I captured some fantastic photos over the Midwest, including shots from near Peoria and showing barge transport and double stack trains, etc.

Photo Album – Flying Over Barges & Trains in the Midwest

I also captured some shots on my departure from Chicago, flying over Lake Michigan and the huge city center.

Finally on the BA flight from London to Stockholm passing over the islands of Ærø and Orø, Denmark before finally descending into Stockholm with the globe sports arena and, in fact, a view of my neighbourhood.

So yes, a trip that seemed horrible to begin with actually turned out OK and service was ok in the front of the plane except for one thing on the American flight from JFK to LHR. They served water in a huge plastic cup before take off — you know the typical American style big plastic cups easily squeezable and filled with ice cubes…NOT STYLISH! But if these are the main problems you face in life you will survive… ☺

This week, I have been gearing up for the breakbulk expo in Rotterdam next week, so next week’s issue will be without formal interviews. Rather it will be major feedback on my impressions from attending this first ever (in a long time at least) physical breakbulk conference.

I am also chairing the Cross Ocean and CLC Projects network conferences on May 16 and will be having a VIP harbour tour in the breakbulk port of Rotterdam with selected contacts on May 17 before joining the United Heavylift, C. Steinweg and Tschudi and Martin Bencher events either as speaker or visitor. Still, networking is what I like above all about shipping, and one might say that I have become fully booked with the opportunity now that Corona has eased!

As for China, well, no one seems to understand (at least outside China) what is going on, so our Chinese friends are likely to be sorely missed at the event due to their continuous lockdown in major cities. The effect of this and also on future production in China remains to be seen, but it will come at a cost.

There is nothing much to say on the political front, except that Russia celebrated its WWII Victory Day on May 9th. Somehow, though it seemed subdued in comparison to celebrations in the past — no doubt what is

Photo Album – Departing Chicago & Flying Over Lake Michigan and Downtown Chicago

Photo Album – View from a British Airways Flight from London to Stockholm

happening in the Ukraine is straining Russia and causing the rest of the world to be filled with uncertainties, increase in interest rates, massive inflation and such, making the lives of those who wish to forecast things even more difficult. There is simply no crystal ball right now with any certain indicators!

In today’s newsletter, we start off in a country known from Dracula, the Black Sea coastline and global seafarers (especially with CMA CGM) and the country is Romania. AsstrA Forwarding is part of a larger group and tells us about themselves.

We then visit another country with a very long coastline known for resilience against foreign invaders, and that is the country of Vietnam. Karl Gross Logistics tells us what they can do in their rather long but “narrow” country.

The third interview is one from the archives with US Ocean LLC, a US Flag ship owner moving project cargoes worldwide.

Speaking of the US… I enjoyed a few nice glasses of wine at a placed called Mutiny Wine Room in Houston that was really excellent and one which I need to visit again when returning to the “scene of the crime” in September for the breakbulk expo there.

Hope you will enjoy the interviews along with our usual compilation of shipping news, trade intelligence, wise words and featured picture and video of the week.

Until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

AsstrA Forwarding – Constanta, Romania

Interview with Mr. Pawel Iwanow-Kolakowski Logistics & General Manager

First off could you explain to our readers about the background and history of AsstrA? Who are the owners of the company? Where are your offices located abroad?

AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG, headquartered in Switzerland, is represented in 23 countries with 30 offices across Europe, Scandinavia, the CIS, Asia, and the USA. AsstrA has been a reliable partner in the logistics and transportation services market for over 25 years. We offer comprehensive services associated with the international shipping industry across all modes of transport including air, FCL, FTL, break-bulk and chartering, import and export support, customs clearance, warehousing and consolidation and cargo insurance.

Our highly qualified and dedicated staff identify the best logistics solutions for our customers’ requirements and scope based on their individual needs. In addition, our Industrial Project Logistics unit will create, design and develop bespoke project logistics solutions packages, taking into account project budget, geographical, political, climatical and ecological factors, marshaling/consolidation opportunities and project scheduling.

Do you have experience in handling project and oversized cargoes? Could you provide our readers with a few examples of project cargoes that you have handled recently internationally or to/from Romania?

1.Relocation of woodworking factory (Poznan & Magdeburg offices)

Route: Bischweier (DE) – Rivne (UA)

Cargo: Woodworking equipment

Dimensions of biggest parts:

12 pieces x 856 x 856 x 440 45,0 – 96,0 tons each + 800 FTL + 250 another OOG

AsstrA services: Custom formalities for whole shipment (more than 1.000 trucks)

Route survey, crane & loading operations in the port of Rhine (Kehl), delivery by road, river barge & sea transports from Kehl (DE) to Odessa (UA)

Road transports from port of Odessa and direct deliveries to Rivne (UA)

2. AsstrA moves trains on the road (Poznan office)

Route: Poland (different loading places) – Berlin (DE) / Budapest (HU)

Cargo: Train wagons

Dimensions:

80 wagons x 2656 x 280 x 445 (15,0 each)

20 wagons x 2656 x 300 x 445 (55,0 to each)

AsstrA services:

Delivery by road incl. route survey & obstacles, engineering support, project pending from 2018

3. Project shipments: wood-chip production plant

Route: Spain – Portugal – Bulgaria

Cargo: Wood-chip production plant

Details: +100 OOG pieces: up to 5m high & 5.5m width

Transportation scheme: Road to Leixoes port – part cargo to Varna – Road onforwarding to delivery site

Romania has a strategic location in the Black Sea Region. Tell us about the ports of your country. Also, as I understand it, you have the possibility of moving cargo via the River Danube into other European countries.

As a main port we, of course, have to mention the ports of Constanta, Braila, and Galati.

River barging is a part of the logistics chain which is an extremely useful tool. By the way, we see continued development of barges being used for local and international shipments from Constanta to ports along the Danube river, Main-Danube Canal, Rhine and other rivers and canals. Thus, we have a connection between Constanta – Hamburg – Rotterdam (ARAG ports)

How is the Corona situation right now in Romania, and does it have an impact on shipping?

We are happy that an obligation to wear masks is no longer in force…So we are enjoying some “ease on strict regulations”.

As far as we understand, there is no longer a huge impact by the Corona topic on our daily routine. We truly hope pandemic stories will have no more new waves in the country and across the world.

Do you feel that the current situation regarding Russian/Ukraine has an impact on shipping to/from or via the Black Sea?

Indeed there is a huge impact. For example, lines which used to call at Odessa or other Ukrainian ports are relocating to Constanta. A lot of containers have been shifted to Constanta and are then trying to find a way to Ukraine by road, rail or again to mention here river barging.

Using the river helps a lot at the moment since Ukrainian ports on the Danube are directly connected to Constanta, Galati, Braila as well as to other countries (Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands).

The situation created a lot of problems but at the same time a lot of opportunities. So we are trying to help each client with whatever need they have.

What gives AsstrA a competitive advantage in the logistics market?

First of all, we have a professional team comprised of experienced people. Each person is given specific tasks according to their knowledge. In addition, there are many of us. At the moment, there are over 1200 people in AsstrA all over the world.

Geography is another plus. As we mentioned already, e have very good coverage: 23 countries, 30 offices.

We provide a wide selection of services.Besides all means of transport, we handle extra services like insurance, storage, organization of containers, tanks, flexi, etc. And we are ready to develop what our customers need. Once a client needs something new, we create a tool for them.

AsstrA believes in constant growth. We regularly develop our global network by adding new locations.

As a result of the above, clients remain with AsstrA and recommend us. We are pleased to say that top-rated clients with worldwide activities remain with us for many years.

How is it best to reach you?

Pawel Iwanow-Kolakowski

Country Manager Romania

Polish, English, Russian

Asstra Forwarding Romania SRL

Tel: +40 31 6201 580

Mobile: +40 749 119 386

pawel.iwanow-kolakowski@asstra.com

Website: https://asstra.ro/

First of all, could you tell us about who owns Karl Gross Logistics Vietnam and how you are organized?

Karl Gross Logistics Viet Nam is the joint venture of Karl Gross Internationale Spedifion GmBH (83%) and myself (17%). I set up a limited company and Karl Gross bought the shares. On paper, I am the one who manages the company independently and takes responsibility for complying with the laws, rules, and regulations in Viet Nam.

Karl Gross Logistics – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Interview with Mrs. Bong Lam General Manager

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes in and out of Vietnam? Could you provide us with some examples of cargoes that you have handled?

Yes, I have such experience. We have handled the import of whole production cargo for projects such as automobile factory, mine, brewery factory, and steel factory. We export cranes, steel parts by break bulk, trailers by ro/ro…

There are many ports in Vietnam. Could you tell our readers which ports are mainly used for containers and project cargo in your country? Since Vietnam is a very long country, kindly elaborate on the main ports used from North to South.

For the South: Cat Lai is the main port for container vessels and still some others for container vessels like VICT, ICD Phươc Long, Cát Lái, SPITC, Hiệp Phước, Tân Thuận, There are some port for project cargo: Lotus, Phu My, CMIT, TCIT…

For central Viet Nam we have Qui Nhon port and Da Nang port.

For the North: Hoang Dieu port is for project cargo and Lach Huyen, Tan Vu, Dinh Vu, Green Port are for container shipments.

Is customs clearance in Vietnam difficult? Are there any specific rules or particular rule of thumb that you could tell our readers to take note of before they start exporting to Vietnam?

In general, it’s not difficult. Basically, we need to follow the rules for sure but there is still some flexibility which we can help us do customs declaration smoothly. Exporters need to check the HS code, import and duty in advance carefully. Sometimes, the customs asks us to amend the value of the cargo based on their knowledge. For this we need the one who has experience to discuss things with the customs official to prove the value we submitted is corrected.

How is the COVID-19 situation right now in your country?

We are living in peace with COVID-19. Everything is back to normal, and now we are enjoying our lives after a long time of being in lockdown because of COVID.

How to get in touch with you?

Please call me directly at my personal phone call via:

WhatsApp: +84 903034178

Email: t.bong@karlgross.vn

Website: https://www.karlgross.de/en/

What can you tell us about the history and ownership of US Ocean, LLC?

US Ocean, LLC started operations of modern, multipurpose vessels under the US Flag in 2002 as an affiliate of Intermarine, LLC. US Ocean was part of Intermarine until April 2018.

When Intermarine began to engage in US flag operations, the focus was on cargo that were financed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States. Intermarine wanted to provide customers that utilized EXIM with modern heavy-lift capable vessels that had the same capabilities as those operating in the international sector, along with exceptional customer service;

Since the US Flag business began operations, the company has:

-Expanded the fleet to 6 vessels;.

-Increased the size, capacities and capabilities of the fleet: 8,000 dwt to 20,000 dwt.

Lifting capacity from 400 mt to 900 mt. Increased bale.

-Offers the only commercial vessel under the US Flag with Lo/Lo, Ro/Ro and Flo/Flo capabilities (M/V Ocean Jazz).

-Diversified the business and the fleet for the carriage of military cargo preference cargo as well as humanitarian aid goods.

Vessels in the fleet are commercially viable, but also maintain a greater level of military utility than the original vessels that the company started with under US Flag. The company has the youngest fleet under the US Flag international trade and is a privately-owned US citizen’s company engaging in worldwide operations. US Ocean, LLC started operations of modern, multipurpose vessels under the US Flag in 2002 as an affiliate of Intermarine, LLC. US Ocean was part of Intermarine until April 2018.

Tell us about the practicalities in today’s world of the US flag requirement. Does it mean that cargo between US ports may only be carried under US flag vessels? Can you give us a few examples please?

US Ocean, LLC – Houston, Texas

Interview with Mr. Will Terrill President and C.E.O.

When Intermarine began to engage in US flag operations, the focus was on cargo that were financed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States. Intermarine wanted to provide customers that utilized EXIM with modern heavy-lift capable vessels that had the same capabilities as those operating in the international sector, along with exceptional customer service;

Since the US Flag business began operations, the company has:

-Expanded the fleet to 6 vessels;.

-Increased the size, capacities and capabilities of the fleet: 8,000 dwt to 20,000 dwt.

Lifting capacity from 400 mt to 900 mt.

Increased bale.

-Offers the only commercial vessel under the US Flag with Lo/Lo, Ro/Ro and Flo/Flo capabilities (M/V Ocean Jazz).

-Diversified the business and the fleet for the carriage of military cargo preference cargo as well as humanitarian aid goods.

Vessels in the fleet are commercially viable, but also maintain a greater level of military utility than the original vessels that the company started with under US Flag. The company has the youngest fleet under the US Flag international trade and is a privately-owned US citizen’s company engaging in worldwide operations.

Let’s say that there is cargo to be moved but there no available US Ocean ship in position in the schedule. Do you have agreements with other shipowners? Can such cargo still be carried under your bill of lading?

At the end of the day, US Ocean is a logistics company and we are engaged with cargo movement on land, over river, at sea and occasionally, by air transport. We are generally engaged in transport to remote or austere regions. Because of our fleet, the vessels that we operate are not dependent on port infrastructure. In many cases, we may deliver the equipment or components to facilitate infrastructure development.

Our network is built around the movement of oversized and over-dimensional cargo, transit to remote locations and complex movement of goods. The logistics moves that we perform reflect our specialisation of operating in remote regions or complex movement of goods.

Do you also carry commercial cargo that is not bound by US flag requirements?

Commercial cargo is an important part of the cargo mix and for fleet operations. Cargo Preference goods and carriage is necessary for sustaining the US flag international fleet, but we also use our international network for the carriage of commercial cargo that make sense for the company’s fleet.

Could you provide us with some pictures of the ships in your fleet, examples cargo that you have carried etc.?

Aside from being a US flag carrier, what kind of open competition commercial activities do you offer in the market? Do you run any liner or semi liner service, or do you tramp your available vessels?

US Ocean vessels are engaged in worldwide transport and do not operate in a liner trade.

When did you start your career in shipping Will? What made you choose this career?

As a kid, I loved being on the water and have always been interested in boats and travelling by water. During and after college, I sailed on schooners and became interested in commercial ships. I ended up going to law school and practiced maritime law in the private practice for eight years. I joined Intermarine in 2006 as the company’s in-house attorney and gained a lot of exposure to the business of shipping. In 2009-10, I was offered the opportunity to lead the US Flag group and jumped at the chance.

How should potential customers contact US Ocean?

For any inquiries please contact:

Leah Cook

VP, Marketing

US Ocean, LLC | www.usocean.com

2900 North Loop West | Suite 1100 | Houston, Texas 77092

Tel: +1 281 885 3500

Email: usflag@usocean.com

www.usocean.com

A Big Bulker Departing Port of Houston to Head Towards the Gulf of Mexico

Editor’s Note:

While visiting the Port of Houston last week I was lucky enough to be present when a big bulker made the turn to depart the terminal and head towards the Gulf of Mexico.

Editor’s Note:

Imagine my surprise when visiting the office of former Nordana (now WECO/UHL) in Houston last week. Mv DANSBORG, which my father was on in the 1950’s in North America, was there in the form of a very nice ships model. Indeed something for the memory bank; particularly for the Drewsen family.

Wise Words

WEEK 20 – 2022

May 19, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 19th of May and I am writing to you from the houseboat hotel here in Rotterdam where I have been staying since the 15th.

The first shall we say big breakbulk expo event is finishing today and I have done my best to be an integral part of it. The event is being held at Ahoy Expo Centre in Rotterdam and has certainly has been a success. It is great to see the happy smiling faces again in a “finally out of COVID shadows and meeting again” style. It was a sight to behold. One visitor remarked to me that all the shipping people present were like a flock of cows finally let out to graze after months of incarceration and that was a very apt and correct statement. On the 16th I chaired the clcprojects.com and cross-ocean.com joint network meeting.

We topped off the day with a fantastic harbour tour in the great Port of Rotterdam (see pictures here) organized by one of our members in Holland named Oudkerk B.V.

On the 17th I gave a speech at the Martin Bencher Group management meeting, telling my story from the past that included a 15 year stint as co-founder of the group, and after lunch went on another VIP harbour tour with selected guests (see here).

That same evening I joined a party organized by the renowned breakbulk carrier United Heavylift, and the next day, the 18th which was yesterday, I finally went to the breakbulk expo. As mentioned, there were a ton of people, lots of exhibitors and a packed schedule with meetings, talk, more talk and thus lots of cheers too, with subsequent use of headache tablets – one seems to forget that age is a problem when coming to wining and dining, I’m sure you all know what I mean. When you are in the mood and on a roll it is difficult to say no and at least for me that is certainly my weakness. It is a bit similar to my passion for sports especially Ritter Sports ☺ just can’t stop in time.

It was fantastic to be out and about again and to see successful and hardworking shipping people doing what they do best and although many were lamenting about the space crunch, jam-packed ships and what not, there was certainly nobody showing that famine was in sight and they couldn’t make ends meet. Having said that, there is certainly an upheaval in the shipping industry and without the ability to forecast anything it will cast a shadow over our daily lives, so overall conclusion on a personal level is to hold on tight for the moment and weather the storm that I believe is brewing in particular with rising interest rates, food supply problems, war, politics, dumb and selfish politicians (although the latter is nothing new). My evening was spent being invited to both the C. Steinweg cocktail party and then the Tschudi Logistics lighthouse boat party so, as they saying goes, no rest for the wicked!

This conference was fantastic for me in many ways as people came up to me and said, “Hi Bo, so YOU are the guy doing Project Cargo Weekly? It’s the only thing I read and I am waiting for it every Thursday….” Even when I was at the subway yesterday (no Ubers were available due to excessive demand) a guy from a major shipper of oil & gas equipment came up to say hello. I felt almost like I was a sales man again – but yes, certainly happy to know that PCW is popular and that it’s a must read publication. We will continue to avoid turning it into a marketing stunt filled with ads and of course, although there really is NO free lunch, I think PCW will continue to only allow a maximum of four ads per newsletter. So book your space now….☺.

I also want to echo a sentiment that has been lingering my mind for some time now and that is the support I got from the home front aka wife who has a logistics background and who understands the need for networking and traveling. I have been drawing quite some cheques on her patience over the past few months with trips to Australia, USA and now Rotterdam. So here is a hug and a kiss to you and I am sure I speak for many other shipping people who know that without a solid better-half waiting or supporting at home we wouldn’t be able to do what we love most. I have been married a few times and with kids on 3 continents I suppose that finding rest has been a problem for some years, although I am well on my way now with my 60th birthday closing fast. On that day I shall officially retire from the day to day networking and I will focus on supporting the other half in her career and my younger children whereof one has an autism diagnosis which means support is needed to a great extent and I need to do my part. I will focus on this newsletter as I have done now but next year I may amend the newsletter to “Project Cargo Fortnightly” instead of weekly to attain the goal of more attention at home. But the jury is still out and hopefully it’s not a hung jury…

I will leave you in peace now without interviews for this week because I am running a tight ship and I hereby

remind you again about the houseboat I was staying at in downtown Rotterdam. It was a pleasure compared to a boring hotel room, do consider this for your future stays in Rotterdam – plenty of space, you can sit on deck and enjoy a glass of wine with a view and no one bothers you. View a few photos of the houseboat here. I will do an interview with the owner of the houseboat and publish next week!

Finally, I just wish to share a happy moment with you all. This nice Panamanian lady representing my network there had her nails done with the logo of her company called Nakama Worldwide Solutions. Amazing, stylish, fresh and an incredible moment in a positive spirit in otherwise quite bleak times for many.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Port of Rotterdam’s Danny Levensward Welcomes the World to Breakbulk Europe 2022

Editor’s Note:

Since this issue is more or less dedicated to the Breakbulk event we hereby show you a video where the port of Rotterdam introduces itself.

Editor’s Note:

Proud to have been chairing the joint CLC Projects and Cross Ocean Project Networks conference in Rotterdam just prior to breakbulk expo.

Wise Words

WEEK 21 – 2022

May 26, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 26th of May, 2022 and we are here again.

Today, I have been invited to a dinner by nice friends at TSA Agency in Gävle (https://tsaagency.se/) which also happens to be an important port in the middle of Sweden by the Baltic Sea. It is always nice to be invited out at least once in a while. When I look back, I met many whose wallet never saw the light of day both in business and in life. I am sure you know what I mean—people who are stingy beyond belief. They borrow a book but never return it. Sometimes, they couldn’t care less. Then there are the times that just because you are family, they think that gives them permission to treat you with disdain. I had a grandfather like that. He was almost crying when going to the toilet because he had to part with something. ☺

Through travelling the world,I have found that in general, people are friendly and just because they are economical doesn’t mean that they are stingy.

For those who hoard money for a rainy day and believe it will rain for 3 months I have less respect, especially if they leave this world with their private affairs in a mess because they haven’t cleaned up their act regarding their final will. I have now spent a couple of months trying to handle this on several continents, making sure that there are no cracks when I depart this world and that my children and wife can move on without the “help” of too many lawyers.

I hope some of the wealthy of the world have done the same and that they, by the same token, have made it clear in their will to return any looted funds to the motherland or donate to worthy causes. Why must it sit in a Londongrad or Moscow by the Thames, Cayman or Cyprus bank account? History repeats itself, so the saying goes, but at least we now have the internet and fewer things can be covered up – or at least they cannot be for long.

On the point of “ex” politicians, it seems that a former German chancellor is now short of a board member seat as reports have it that he left Rosneft along with a couple of other colleagues before becoming active in European politics. How politics and business are intertwined beggars belief. There is the Covid quarantine. We should implement a similar one for politicians who leave public office only to do exactly the same but in the private sector as “consultants” – the pension from the state must be low as it does seem that the time gap isn’t long between jobs for some of them… It all reminds me of what Gordon Gekko famously said in the movie Wall Street and I quote: “because greed works”.

This week is also the “after breakbulk recovery week” with long days, many parties, and feeling alive again. Meeting up face to face meant also using excessive energy and that certainly takes its toll, especially when turning 60 next! I could do with losing a few kilos too, but then I wouldn’t be in heavylift so… better live as I preach.☺

Turning to today’s newsletter, I am happy to share with you an interview with the owner of a Houseboat in Rotterdam. I spent 5 wonderful days onboard, with a perfect location, the ability to have meetings “on deck”, and it was awesome weather indeed a most memorable week. The gangway moved almost 2 meters between morning and night due to the tide….

Finally, I move myself toAsia which is now slowly comingout from under the Covid shadow and startingwith Thailand where we remind you of an interview we had with CU Logistics, Bangkok

We finish off in Singapore with the heavylift experts Bok Seng. Definitely looking forward to visiting Asia again very soon!We, of course, provide you with shipping news, trade intel, wise words and, oh yes speaking ofAsia, I was pleased to hear that the joint CLC Projects & Cross Ocean conference will take place 17-19 of October at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, so surely,Asia here we come…

Wishing you all well and until next week I remain…

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Houseboat Holiday Apartments – Rotterdam, Netherlands

Interview with Ms. Monique Smit Owner

When did you buy your houseboat, and if I may ask out of curiosity. How much did it cost? How much did you spend on fixing it up, and what would you say that maintenance cost per year approximately?

I bought the ship in 2017. I’d like to keep what it cost private, but on average, houseboats in Holland cost as much as houses. I would say I spend on average 10.000 euro a year on maintenance and improvement on the ship.

How big is it? What is the length,and how many sleeping places are there?

It’s a Spits. They are almost 40 metres long and 5.20 wide. There are 3 apartments in the ship: 2 in the hold and 1 in the wheelhouse. I live in the smallest apartment in the hold. The big apartment sleeps 7 people. There’s a big living room, 2 double bedrooms each with their own ensuite bathroom and a berth for 2 in the living room. The wheelhouse is a lot smaller and sleeps a maximum of 4 people.

I understand that you currently live on the houseboat in one of the apartments. That means that you look after the “hotel” yourself so to speak.

Yes, I live in the smaller apartment in the ship’s hold, and I do everything for the rental myself. The best thing about that is that I welcome my guests personally, and I’m always there if they need my help.

What is the biggest difference, in your view, between a “normal hotel” and a houseboat”?

Sleeping on a ship is very special. It always moves a little because of the movement of the water. Even though I’m located in the centre of the city of Rotterdam, it’s the sound of the waterbirds you wake up to in the morning.

How would you explain the location of your houseboat to the people booking a room? How far to shopping, restaurants, and the railway station?

The location is perfect to explore the city. Everything is within walking distance: the cube houses, Markthal, Witte de Withstraat with all its bars and restaurants. And if you want to use public transport, the train and metro station are 5 minutes away on foot. But the best is, of course, that there is a water taxi stop opposite the ship!

From which countries do your guests normally come, Europe/Asia percentage-wise, and how would you characterize the difference between the guests generally?

My guests come from all over the world. They come for the great architecture in Rotterdam or for big events. In general, my guests are delighted to be in such special accommodation. I get people of all ages: from families to groups of friends. Overall, I’ve noticed they’re happy that there’s a possibility to cook. People from Asia especially appreciate that. And because there’s a supermarket 2 minutes on foot from the ship, it’s easy to buy the things you like to eat or drink.

Are you happy to live on a houseboat, and what does it mean as a way of life?

I’m very happy and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. The ship itself, the location, I’m very lucky. I’ve never worked as hard as I do now because I also have to paint the ship every year etc. But it’s totally worth it.

How is it best to get in touch with you to make a booking?

I have a website houseboatrotterdam.com and you can find all the information there. I’m also listed on booking.com and airbnb.

CU Logistics – Bangkok, Thailand

Can you tell us about the name CU Logistics how did you decide to use this name? What year did you start your company?

Well, can you guess? It‘s me. Our company name is derived from the first letters of my first and last names. We started our company in 2002, but CU Logistics has evolved from a freight forwarding company with a twenty year track record into a fully integrated logistics service provider offering a comprehensive range of customizable logistics services. We have provided one-stop services, ranging from customs brokerage to transportation, packing, storage and transportation of bulks goods.

Interview with Mrs. Noi & Mr. Chairat Owners

Do you belong to any overseas networks currently?

We are a Thai-based company and of course we are one of the CLC Projects members in Bangkok, Thailand.

In Thailand, there used to be a state owned shipping line called Unithai and even a state-owned freight forwarder called E.T.O, I believe. Could you tell our readers about the status and history of these two organisations and also whether they are still playing a role in today’s Thailand?

Unithai is a private company who own vessels and is registered under Thai Flag with Thai nationality.

E.T.O. was an enterprise organization in the past that dealt directly with the Port Authority of Thailand, but is no longer in service.

CU can operate any import business to government, state organizations and those in the government sector, under the requirements of the Thai Flag Vessels act.

CU recognises the policy and acts professionally (according to the rules and regulations of the Thai Flag Vessels act) throughout the transportation process, from before the cargo is even on the vessel at the port of origin, through transshipment and until berthing at the port of destination in Thailand. This is in order to gain all the permits and related documents and be ready to hand them over to the government .

With the fantastic geographical location of Thailand, bordering several countries such as Laos, Myanmar, China etc., can you organise transshipment via Thai ports into these neighbouring countries? In the case of cargo being transported to Laos, for example, what would you say is the best route? What about customs clearance for transshipment cargoes? Is that done in Thailand or at final destination?

We agree and want to emphasize the fantastic geographical location of Thailand, as if you look at the south east Asian map, we are in the center of commercial and transportation activity, with more facilities for logistics management to be made easier and faster through connections with the several bordering countries.

We have experience in transshipment via Thailand to neighbouring countries by inland truck and with customs clearance as a one-stop service via multi-modal transport from any countries via Thailand. A good example of the most convenient route from Thailand to Laos is by operating through Nongkhai, Mukdaharn and Nakornphanom province borders with CU, with full services done via inland truck until the process is completed at the destination.

There are hundreds of freight forwarders located in Bangkok. Why do you believe that CU Logistics is the right one to contact?

Our competitive edge lies in the staff’s solid experience in the freight forwarding business, which has been built up at local companies as well as multinational organizations. Because we are a medium-sized company, we are more flexible and can adjust procedures/work methods very quickly to suit customers’ needs.

By identifying the specific needs of each customer and offering services that meet their special requirements, we can work quickly to provide services that customers really benefit from. The company can already clear export customs within one to two working days and air cargo within five hours from landing. Since procedures are planned carefully and precisely to suit customers’ needs, the company has been able to downsize its personnel.

How to get in touch with you?

To know more about us, please kindly visit our website at: Fan page: www.facebook.com/culogistics/ Thank you.

First, I’d like to ask about the name Bok Seng. Is it a family name, or does it mean something else? When was the company established and can you elaborate a bit on its history?

Bok Seng is the name of the company’s founder. The company was established in 1975. The company started out as a civil engineering company mainly focusing on the construction business. Over the years, with a growing fleet of trailers, the company evolved into a transport company then into a total logistics service provider with two main business divisions, namely the integrated and project logistics divisions.

The Integrated Logistics Division is comprised of the following services:

1)Conventional Trucking

2)Container Trucking

3)Container Depot

4)Contract Logistics

5)Warehouse and Inventory Management

Project Logistics Division is comprised of the following services:

1)Specialised Mover

2)Heavy Lifting

3)Heavy Transport

Bok Seng Group – Singapore

Interview with Mr. Vincent Teo Senior Director

4)Marine Logistics

5)Heavy lifting/transportation and marine transport engineering

Bok Seng also attained the ISO9001:2015, OHSAS 18001:2007 and ISO14001:2015 certifications.

We met at the Breakbulk expo in Bremen. You had a booth there and I wandered past it and made a stop. Would you say that it was worthwhile to be present at the expo with own booth?

This was the second year that Bok Seng participated in Breakbulk Europe in Bremen as an exhibitor. We have also participated in other editions of the Breakbulk exhibition, such as Breakbulk Asia in 2018 and Breakbulk China in 2016 and 2019.

Breakbulk exhibitions are a good opportunity for friends and associates in the industries to gather in a single location to meet, catch up, discuss business opportunities, and make new contacts. Breakbulk Europe provides a good platform to reach the project logistics community in Europe and allow us to showcase our strengths and capabilities to different stakeholders in project cargo.

It also allows us to meet up with the European representatives of our clients in Southeast Asia. This gives them a first-hand understanding of the service provider (Bok Seng) that their counterparts in Southeast Asia are engaging for their projects.

Singapore has a strategic position in the main shipping lane of the world, so your location is perfect. What can you offer overseas customers? Also, regarding said customers, can they be direct shippers, freight forwarders, shipowners, or a mix of them all?

Bok Seng has a wide range of customers, they can be direct shippers, freight forwarders, consignees and shipping companies. We serve customers from the offshore and marine, oil and gas, infrastructure, and ports and shipyard industries.

Bok Seng has offices, yards, and operations teams in various Southeast Asian countries, such as Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Brunei. With our network in the region, we can offer customers complete door-to-door logistics services from one country to another within the region. Other than providing the equipment to handle customers’ cargo, our experienced operations and engineering team (mechanical, civil, and naval architects), with the use of engineering software, can conduct surveys and provide customised technical proposals for the safe handling of customers’ heavy lift cargo.

You are asset owners, I believe. Can you tell us more?

Bok Seng has a comprehensive range of shore and marine assets, including prime movers, trailers, mobile cranes, crawler and mobile cranes (up to 750 ton), synchronised jacking systems, hydraulic skidding systems, self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT), conventional hydraulic trailers, waterfront yards with private jetties and tugs and barges (up to 330ft length). With our equipment, we can handle cargo up to 4,000 tons within the Southeast Asia region.

Although Singapore’s location is unrivaled, the size of the country is still limited. Do you also do heavy lift and other jobs outside Singapore?

Bok Seng has undertaken projects in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Brunei, and Indonesia.

Could you provide us with a few examples of jobs handled both inside and outside the Lion City?

Project Name: Leviathan Project Services: Heavy Haulage (Loadout)

Cargo: 2,200-ton Module

Equipment: SPMT (108 axle lines)

Date: September 2018

Location: Singapore

Project Name: BASF Lemongrass Project Services: Heavy Haulage

Cargo: 320 ton, 50m Process Column

Equipment: SPMT (72 axle lines)

Date: April 2016

Location: Malaysia

Project Name: Wheatstone LNG Project

Services: Weighing, Tug and Barge and Heavy Haulage (Loadout)

Cargo: 1,300-ton Module Loading Platform

Equipment: Tug and Barge, SPMT (88 axle lines)

Date: September 2015

Location: Indonesia

Project Name: Keppel Fels Jackup Rig Project

Services: Tug and Barge and Heavy Haulage (Loadout)

Cargo: 2 units of 1,200-ton Module Loading Platform

Equipment: Tug and Barge, SPMT (60 axle lines)

Date: December 2016

Location: Thailand

What’s the best way to reach you for further information?

vincent.teo@bokseng-ipl.com

www.bokseng-ipl.com

A COSCO Shipping Newbuild Paying a Visit to Port of Södertälje

Editor’s Note:

We mentioned Port of Södertälje in the shipping news and here is a short video taken during the cold morning of one January day this year showing a breakbulk COSCO vessel alongside. Enjoy!

Editor’s Note:

From the Baltic Sea this weekend resting-up after Breakbulk Europe in Rotterdam. Enjoying the view aft of mv Viking Glory the newbuilding in service between Stockholm, Sweden and Turku, Finland. Welcoming two new countries to NATO soon sounds like a good idea in these times.

Wise Words

June 2, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is now Thursday the 2nd of June and we are almost half-way through the year of 2022. Hard to believe right? Wait until you get older — the time will pass even more quickly then.

Time wasted or time spent in jail is what apparently is needed for many of our criminals in parts of the western world today. It’s been years since I visited San Francisco, and although I know it as a beautiful city in many ways and the home of [the movie] “Dirty Harry”, it seems long since Callahan [main character in movie] was clearing the streets in this Californian icon of a city. I was shocked to see this YouTube clip aired recently about crime in San Francisco. It seems that we are not alone here in Sweden where we are ranked almost No. 1 in gun shootings and gun violence in Europe.

How should we deal with this scourge? It cannot only be a matter of inequality. For sure here in Sweden there is no noticeable poverty, and there are a ton of opportunities for education, improvements, and courses (plus benefits for studying) available to “confused youngsters or young adults” to encourage them not to choose a career with the local gang. Question is: Don’t the parents have some responsibility here?

Indeed, it is to some extent quite laughable as to how China has dealt with the Omicron variant, but at the very least, you don’t find cities in China where crime is rampant like it apparently is in San Francisco. The Chinese here in Sweden also cannot get their head around what happened to this otherwise fantastic country in Scandinavia where they happily emigrated to.

One noticeable difference between Denmark and Sweden, for example, is that a contract murder committed in Denmark gets you (in one particular case) 16 years in jail if you are below 18 years of age, whilst in Sweden, the same crime would have given you a maximum of 4 years of light incarceration. Bear in mind that in both cases, the governments are Social Democrats…!

How come there is this total naiveté in one country while there are clear consequences in others?

People vote with their feet, and they will move out if a neighbourhood becomes too volatile. This remains true anywhere. The first and most important thing for a country’s leadership is to keep its population safe and to have a strong and CAPABLE police force. Who cares about a sustainable economy or green vegetables and clean energy if your kid is shot down when going to or studying in school? Politicians: wake up and deal with it; talk less and reduce political correctness.

On the political front, when asking a Finnish friend of mine living in Hong Kong about the Corona situation in Hong Kong and China, he said and I quote:

“Hello, Yes, I think they will keep HK closed for [the] next few years before US – China – EU relationships are getting better. It’s not about the Covid any more. The war in Ukraine must stop before anything will move on. China is supporting Russia and China [and] wants to test the water [as to] how far [the] West is ready to support Ukraine. I think it’s all now related with [the] situation in Ukraine. US – China trade is going [to be the] same as [the] last 3 years.”

It leads one to think about Taiwan, doesn’t it?

Right – enough on politics and the situation on the crime front. We now turn to business in this week’s issue.

We start off by visiting a small country in the Arabian Gulf where many people from Saudi go for “happy weekends”, and that place in Bahrain. ISS Global Forwarding is a well-known brand in forwarding, and they tell us about their experience in Bahrain.

We then return to the place of my residence, the land of IKEA, ABBA and certainly beauty and islands called Sweden SveCon Freight, a shipping agent, tells us more about what they can do in Sweden and the Baltics. Finally, we stay in the Baltics with a re-visit to Rostock, Germany where we remind you about a good interview we had with Stinnes Line and their reliable liner service across the pond to the US Gulf (among others).

We, of course, provide you with shipping news, trade intel and wise words, and we remind you once again to download the PCW app to your phone, so you can watch or listen to interviews at your convenience whilst on the go.

Wishing you all well and until next week I remain…

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Jammal Country Manager

First of all, can you tell me how long ISS has been established in Bahrain? How many staff members do you have, and what is your main line of logistics business?

We have been established for approximately 4 Years. We operate with +20 staff.

Our main focus is Freight forwarding all Modes (inbound & outbound), Consolidation – Project cargo, Warehousing, Clearance and Delivery. (We have our own Inhouse Clearance team.)

ISS Global Forwarding – Manama, Bahrain

Interview with Ms. May

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes in and out of Bahrain? Could you perhaps provide our readers with a few examples of project cargoes that you have handled?

Yes, we handle project cargo on all modes in and out of Bahrain, see the various photos that I have shared in this interview.

Bahrain is not so often in the news, and perhaps it is not a place so well known outside the Middle East. What can you tell our readers about the country: port facilities, number of inhabitants, etc.?

Bahrain is a small country compared to other middle eastern countries, but it’s filled with business opportunities since the country has major projects. Bahrain is being used as a gateway to the biggest market in the Middle East (Saudi Arabia) due to our customs flexibility. (Shipments are cleared and delivered via road to Saudi.)

Bahrain has a FTA (free trade agreement) with the USA. This is why most of the big suppliers have invested in Bahrain and build their manufacturing plants here.

Bahrain has the biggest Aluminum exporter (ALBA).

Bahrain is hosting the yearly Formula1 car race (Bahrain Grand Prix, officially known as the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix) which generates one of the highest revenues after O&G revenues.

How about customs clearance in Bahrain – is that difficult? Any rule of thumb in order to have a smooth customs clearance in your country?

Here we have one of the easiest clearance processes. The requirements are Original Invoice & Packing list (Country of origin, HS Codes).

Do you have shipping lines coming regularly to Bahrain or is it mainly serviced via feeder routes through other ports?

We have MV’s / Breakbulk vessels / Car carriers calling at Bahrain.

Do you currently belong to any networks besides being part of the ISS Global Forwarding group?

We are a member of Cross Ocean Air & Sea Project Logistics Network and JC trans/WCA (in some countries).

Please inform our readers to get in touch with you?

Emails, Phone, WhatsApp, Teams – We are on call 24/7.

Mob: +973 368 36872

Tel: +973 17 820 101

May.Jammal@iss-gf.com

SveCon Freight AB – Gavle, Sweden

Interview with Mr. Daniel Berglind CEO

First of all Daniel, could you elaborate for our readers a bit about the history of SveCon. I suppose the abbreviation has something to do with Sweden and Container?

You are correct in your assumption. Svecon Freight AB was founded in May 1990 by my father along with 2 other companies, Conmel Group AB (Gothenburg) and Scandinavian Sealift AB (Örebro). The idea for starting Svecon Freight AB, was to introduce the container as a transportation alternative to breakbulk shipments along the northern part of Sweden. After a couple of successful years, we decided to be sole owner of Svecon Freight AB and purchased 100% of the shares in the year 2000. We continued our journey in freight forwarding and ships agency and invested in our own warehouses in the Port of Gavle to become a complete service provider.

In 2013, my father retired, and I took over the business. It was a very exciting period for me. In 2019, Mr Hjalmarsson at Thor Shipping approached me and asked if I were interested in selling my companies and reinvesting in Thor Shipping. After some consideration, I saw this as a good opportunity for expansion, and I decided to sell 100% of my companies to Thor Shipping & Transport AB and reinvest to become a part owner in that company. We are now just about to consolidate our 2 brands into 1 name: TSG AB, Thor Svecon Group AB, and we will have a very interesting future with our expansion in shipping.

Where is your headquarters located and do you have other branches in Sweden, Scandinavia, or overseas?

Gavle was our headquarters until I sold Svecon Freight AB. Today, the Västerås office is HQ for TSG AB, and we have offices in Söderhamn, Södertälje, Oxelösund, and Oskarshamn. We are also running a terminal in Hull with container handling and conventional cargo.

I understand that you also act as a shipping agent and that you recently became the agent of a new roro line linking Sweden with the Baltic States? Could you tell our readers more about it: type of vessel, capacity on the ramp including opening height and width and service pattern?

Ships agency is a segment we offer to our customers. For this new line, we are also liner agents for Scandic Line and can offer attractive rates for trailers, MAFIs, and other types of RoRo cargo. The vessel is M/V Midas which will call at Riga-Södertälje on a fixed schedule, 3 calls per week in each port. Södertälje port is very attractive to reach the Mälardalen region.

Map of Port of Södertälje, Sweden and Riga Central Terminal, Latvia

Port of Södertälje

Would you say that you act as a shipping agent (in short an all-in-one freight forwarder) or is there a particular focus that you stick to in shipping?

We are a full service provider in logistics I would say. We offer ships agency, freight forwarding (seafreight/ road/rail), customs clearance, warehousing, and chartering.

Port of Oxelösund

How do you find the Swedish market at the moment? We all know that shipowners these days are happier than ever since space is scarce and hard to find on a global scale. Do you find the same in Sweden and the region here?

It has been very problematic in logistics during the Corona pandemic, and we still see effects that continue to

Port of Västerås Amsterdam Terminal

disturb the logistics sector.

What got yourself into shipping in the first place?

Well, it is in my blood, more or less, I have to say. Since my father started his own shipping company in 1979, I grew up with that way of living: always being available and serving our customers in the line of freight forwarder and ships agency.

Port of Hull

Map of Vessels Current Locations

What do you mainly like about being in shipping?

It is a way of living, and now we will also grow further together with TST and our strong owners.

How is it best for our readers to get hold of you?

As we are in the middle of changing our company name, we will also have new e-mail addresses from June 1st. Our new e-mail addresses will be daniel.berglind@tsg.se or roro-sales@tsg.se. You can still reach us at our old @sveconfreight.se emails, but please update to our new e-mail. You also find contact info in our new website www.tsg.se

Video Interview: Hugo Stinnes Schiffahrt – Rostock, Germany

Steffen Wiegratz – Line Manager SanMex Service and MPP Transatlantic at Hugo Stinnes Schiffahr was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Arriving Melbourne, Australia After a 3 week Trip Onboard mv CMA CGM Georgia from Singapore

Editor’s Note:

Footage by the undersigned – welcome to Melbourne, Australia. Chinese captain and officers, Sri Lankan crew, the trip was incredible, not least the food. I tried to work off the calories by playing ping pong with the chief officer after dinner, he was from Shandong province – I lost!

Editor’s Note:

Here with 2 executives Mr. Vijay Sarathy & Mr. Mahek Gala of JM Baxi India introducing their new heavy haul joint venture in India discussing membership in CLC Projects Network. So I already booked the houseboat for a week to cover 2023 breakbulk Rotterdam. Welcome onboard!

Wise Words

WEEK 23 – 2022

June 9, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 9th of June and we are here again. There are 4 issues including this one left before the month of July leaves you in peace and avoids you getting PCW clogging your in-box.

I visited Grenaa/Denmark and London/UK on this quick trip and decided by a whim to invite my 2 daughters living in the UK for dinner before my return to Stockholm in the off-chance that they would have time from their studies and work busy schedules. I was in luck and was proud to enjoy a dinner with my 30-year-old and my 20-year-old daughter at the same time at yet another expensive hotel in downtown London.

Europe is facing serious problems with getting staff back to resume working as check-in security in airports. This is resulting in very very long queues in most major airports, both on departure and arrival. See this short video clip from my arrival to LONDON STANSTED: just messy and ONE toilet…

So getting yourself to the airport 2 hrs in advance is no longer enough (see here).

As for Stockholm/Arlanda, the problem is among the worst in Europe because of a variety of factors such as management lack of foresight, a strong job market, and also some bureaucracy where a lot of small delays between authorities accumulates and causes an even worse backlog. Add in the fact that life is quite good (meaning no one goes hungry even without a job), and the perfect storm is here.

The week also reminded me that I had better either slow down travelling (impossible) or sharpen up (perhaps impossible, too). What happened was that when parking the car in Stockholm whilst taking the son to basketball, I overlooked that the signposting was 11-15 in brackets (meaning parking is free on Sundays). HOWEVER, it was a Thursday 11-19, and of course, I didn’t buy the required parking ticket. The result was a fine in the amount of USD85.

Then when returning from Heathrow today, I happily checked in, got the boarding pass, and wanted to pass security, the error was shown. It turned out that my return to Stockholm was one day later — not when I thought I had booked my return. I didn’t catch it. The check-in representative didn’t catch it, and so my luggage was accepted. I had to rebook the flight and pay another fine — this time in the amount of USD250.

I attribute it to either stress, too much planning, no secretary, or simply the fact that age is creeping up. Let’s see — perhaps early retirement at 60 (FEB 2023) is indeed the right move. Well, you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs, so for now leaning onto that rather convenient explanation ☺.

This week 2 ministers were subject to a no confidence vote: in Sweden and in the UK. The Swedish Minister for Justice survived by the narrowest of margins and the UK PM apparently also survived by a slight margin. Politics does seem to be a game but still, on balance of looking at systems in other countries, we still hear a lot nowadays about how our democracy is by far the best system to live by and not to forget to fight for it. With democracy, everyone has a decent chance, and there are checks and balances.

Shanghai has started to open up, and there has been a stampede to leave the condos for the relative freedom, but just how much freedom remains to be seen if this footage from CNN is to be believed.

Yet of course, as with all media, better check some media outlets both from the local country and from abroad in order to get a perspective or simply ask local friends that you may have in a certain place to verify what the media is reporting.

Today in our newsletter, we start off by talking to a lady running a family business that her father originally started. Coming from the country of great wine, food, chocolate and shipping, we are naturally talking about Belgium. The owner of FAST LINES tells a compelling story.

We then visit a country famous for tulips, extremely economical people, and ‘let’s go Dutch’, i.e., The Netherlands. We talk to the famous Spliethoff Group subsidiary, SEVENSTAR.

Finally a country of oil / gas / salmon and beautiful nature, and here we refer to Norway. The company NTG and their new partner explains a bit more about their capabilities

We’ve got shipping news, trade intel and all our other usuals in store for you, and we hope you will enjoy this edition of Project Cargo Weekly. Don’t forget to download our APP (and to listen on demand to many of our online interviews whilst you are stuck in traffic or in a security queue at a European airport…. ☺

Until next week, where I shall be in Dubai and Bangkok I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Sevenstar Exceptional Marine Transport - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Catrien Scheers, Chair at Fast Lines Belgium was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Fast Lines - Antwerp, Belgium

Interview with Mr. Luuk Flens Sales Manager

First of all our readers would like to know something about the background and ownership of Sevenstar. Can you elaborate on that, and could you also specify your speciality within the project cargo industry?

Sevenstar is a proud member of the Spliethoff Group, which is a Dutch ship owner with a fleet of over 120 multipurpose, heavy-lift and semi-submersible vessels. Established in 1921, Spliethoff operates her fleet worldwide with the HQ in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Sevenstar has more than 40 years of experience in shipping luxury yachts. With the experience of yacht transport in hand and the support of the Spliethoff and BigLift fleet, Sevenstar knew all facets for excellent Exceptional Marine Transport were in house. We see ourselves as the best partner for the transport of floating cargo such as barges, tug boats, patrol vessels, river cruisers and, simply said, every other floating unit. Now, in 2022, Sevenstar EMT has a dedicated team of vessel operators, Loadmaster, engineers and sales agents all over the world. The team is still managed from the Headquarters in Amsterdam. Sevenstar EMT is now the biggest dedicated transporter of Exceptional Marine cargo and is still expanding every single day.

Are you basically shipowners in your own right, or do you charter tonnage to meet demand or both? Since the market is very strong, how do you connect with customers: worldwide, direct, through freight forwarders or…?

Regarding shipowners vs chartering tonnage, I would say we do both. Of course we have a tight relationship with the Spliethoff and BigLift fleet, but we are also very happy to use tonnage of other carriers when this fits our schedule better or when this is more cost efficient for our clients. We always try to optimize our services and arrange the best transport solution that is available for our client. The added value of Sevenstar is the great technical expertise, our experience, and our worldwide network of agents and carriers.

We connect with our customers via multiple channels. We have strong relationships with multiple brokers and freight forwarders for which we are extremely happy. But of course we have a lot of direct clients as well. Due to the experience in B2C contracts with Sevenstar Yacht Transport, we do speak both languages and we are comfortable both ways.

Has the Corona pandemic affected your business in the last couple of years, and if so how?

I would lie if I said the pandemic didn’t affect our business. I think in shipping we all have faced the difficulties this ‘’new world’’ brought us. Most of all we had to work around the restrictions for our crew on board, loadmasters, and clients to get in- and out of countries all around the world. We always send a Sevenstar Loadmaster to all of our operations. The worldwide restrictions made that close to impossible. Due to the flexibility of our crew, load masters, and full staff, we have been able to keep our operations running and kept loading EMT cargoes.

Port Captains, lashing/securing, and competent understanding of safety is vital when moving expensive equipment and cargo around. How do you at Sevenstar ensure quality in this field?

Sevenstar, as a part of the Spliethoff Group, has a class-certified Quality Assurance System, which covers all stages of our operations and ensures compliance with the highest safety standards in the industry. We work with the highly reputable Class societies such as DNV, Lloyd’s Register and Bureau Veritas and maintain our fleet, gear, work processes and training standards for the personnel in line with the latest and most advanced set of regulations for the quality assurance.

The crystal ball is blurry at the moment for most, but what would be your forecast for shipping for the remainder of 2022?

In this market, it is difficult to make clear predictions, but due to the high pressure on the current market, I would say it will continue till at least the end of 2022. From the shipowners’ perspective, of course, the results have increased over the last two years. From the charterers’ side of things, this made moving project cargoes around a lot more complicated. When the shipment cost per unit is increased so much, this brings cargo owners to a situation where margins are minimalized or worse. This problem is partly resolved: since cargo owners are now familiar with the increased cost of shipment, this is used in the pre-calculations and selling price. I personally think it is important for the market to develop to a level where shipowners and charterers can both benefit in the long-term.

How would it be best for our readers to get in touch with you?

Feel free to contact me using the below contact details. Also, I am always keen to have a cup of coffee in our HQ, so do not hesitate to stop by.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luuk-flens/

Address: Radarweg 36, 1042 AA, Amsterdam – The Netherlands

Tel: +31 204488691

Mob: +31 683000678

Email: L.Flens@sevenstar.nl

Web: sevenstar-emt.com

NTG Air & Ocean AS – Oslo, Norway

Interview with Mr. Dag Ulstein MD and Partner

First of all Dag, can you tell us about when NTG Transport was established in Norway and where you’ve got your branches currently? Also you are part of a larger group in Scandinavia, right?

NTG Air & Ocean was established in Norway in April 2012, under the name Cargo World, and was acquired by NTG in 2013. Today we have 2 offices in Norway: Kristiansund N on the west coast and Drammen in eastern Norway.

We are a part of the Danish NTG Group which has offices in several countries.

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes in and out of Norway? If so, could you provide our readers with a few examples?

NTG Norway have over the past years been awarded a number of projects both from Norwegian Companies, as well as through partners abroad.

For us the major projects have been in relation to:

Oslo Port

•Production and distribution of electricity, mainly from Turkey and Far East to Western parts of Norway. Often delivered with barges, cranes and special transport to very remote locations.

•Building and development of Fish farms both in Norway and the Faroe Islands. Mainly produced in Eastern Europe.

•Cable and cable reels of 100 tns+ for both offshore and onshore.

•Dismantling and shipping of whole factories related to wooden products.

There are many seaports in Norway. Elaborate for us if you will on the most common ports used for project cargo export in your country.

Looking at the geography of Norway, with a coastline which is the same length as half of the equator combined with narrow roads and long distances, it is no wonder that Norway is a shipping nation.

Ships have been used as the transport for goods, food and all necessary supplies for generations. In the north, the coastal express vessel “Hurtigruten” (calling at 34 ports) was the only connection several small communities had to the rest of the world.

As a consequence, it was necessary for every small community to establish a port. Today, we recon 33 commercial ports to be frequently called and which are suitable to receive and ship cargo. On top of that actually there are several private ports owned and operated by potential clients of ours.

Looking at projects, especially the port of the major cities and private ports of industrial companies are the most used. I would also say that the west-coast is larger in the sense of project, compared to the Oslo fjord region.

The existence of all these possible ports that can be used makes it essential to have a good and reliable partner in Norway to be able to find the most economical and practical completion of a project.

Risavika Port (Stavanger Oil and Gas Capital)

Norway has a border with Russia. Do you feel tensions running higher now in Norway or shall we say the northern part of your country? Norway is also a NATO member, right?

Norway shares a border of 200 km with Russia, all the way up in the North. Yes, Norway is a member of NATO, and for this reason I would say we do not feel special tension, even though we all know what they do in the more southern parts.

There is a close and historically good relationship between Norway and Russia in the areas surrounding our shared border. Trade, labor, culture and education are all areas where the cooperation has benefitted both parties. I know that businesses, especially in the northern parts, are financially hurt by the sanctions, as cross border trade is essential to them. At the same time, they, of course, comply and understand the reason why the border is closed, but are looking forward to this terrible situation to end, and normal trade relations to be back to normal.

Northern Lights (Photo by Stein Egil Liland)

Skiing in Narvik (photo by Sophie Stevens)

How about customs clearance in Norway. Is that easy or difficult given that you are a non-EU country?

For a Norwegian living in Norway, this is not difficult. However, I do understand that seen from abroad and maybe even long distance, it seems illogical that Norway is not part of the EU Market. Our system does not in principle differ from any other single country not being part of a custom union. What you bring in or out needs to be custom cleared. Today, custom clearance is highly automated via EDI, and I must admit that it is quick and effective. So unless there are special circumstances, it is hardly noticeable. But again, having a local company with local skills and knowledge is key.

When did you start your career in logistics?

As a student, I was earning additional money doing export paperwork for an airfreight agency. After my Masters in shipping and international trade, I started working for a small ships-broker in Oslo. At that time (1993), husbandry agency to industrial and cruise vessels was hard work.

I remember getting 1000 liters of diabetic ice cream on a Sunday for Holland America Line and counting ship’s food and drink inventory for a Russian Oil tanker to get all the customs papers in order. Gradually moving from brokering cargo to booking containers, I moved over to the liner agency part of our business. After 10 years of managing several liner agencies within the same owner group, I moved to Freight Forwarding as MD of Wilson Logistics (now Geodis) and stayed until 2013 when I moved to Altus, a company owned by SWIRE. Altus was at that time purely a project company. After a short period in Scan Global, I ended up a GM in Nor-Lines: a domestic provider of groupage through 15 own terminals and 500 trucks, and an owner of 5 vessels (Ro-Ro and Reefer) connecting the Baltic, Poland and the continent to the western and northern part of Norway. Now after 30 years in different parts of the logistics industry, I am happily back at the roots doing global Air and Seafreight.

Please share with our readers how best to reach you.

Details:

Dag Ulstein, MD & Partner, NTGAir & OceanA/S

VisitingAddress:

Ryghgata 4 B

NO-3050 Mjøndalen (Oslo), Norway

Mobile +47 909 123 88

dul@ntgairocean.com

Website: www.ntgairocean.com

Trollstigen Road (Photo by Jose Cantorna)

Introducing the F900 Eco-Lifter fleet | United Heavy Lift

Editor’s Note:

United Heavylift has come a long way in the last few years! With almost 20 vessels of the F type under its belt it stands well equipped to offer needed and versatile shipping service for project cargoes worldwide.

Editor’s Note:

Celebrating 10 years as chairman of CLC Projects Group to which PCW belongs, which reminds me that 10 years ago I visited the port of Guayaquil as passenger onboard mv Lutetia. The port area was not the most beautiful or wealthy spot in Ecuador but it was still worth a visit. Poverty was everywhere and one might say wealth distribution was off-kilter…

Featured Photo

Wise Words

WEEK 24 – 2022

June 16, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 16th of June, and I am writing this editorial in the Emirates or rather in a hotel room at Radisson Blu Deira Creek, Dubai.

A lot of people I have met over the years always ask why I stay in Deira, and the reason is simply because I feel that it is more like the real Dubai — or how it was before the high rise apartment buildings, fancy shopping malls, and entertainment areas were built. While this is certainly impressive in itself, still, for me being of a certain age, it does not have the same appeal as before. Here are a few pictures I shot from the hotel including the area of Deira Creek from where you can see across towards the “new” Dubai and the imposing and impressive Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Today, on the last day before leaving for Bangkok, we DID visit (my 2 youngest sons and myself) the Burj Khalifa, and we exited the lift on floor 105. It was an incredible experience and what an engineering feat — well-planned, impressive, stunning, and simply a marvel. The Burj Khalifa is evidence of what we can do if we put our minds to it. Here are some of the pictures I took. Note in particular the pictures of the guys doing the window cleaning, and here you certainly can talk about people “hanging on to their jobs” for lack of a better word. Incredible or as they say in the US: “Awesome”!

Been there, done that, got the t-shirt (which we did) and happily we moved on to visit a friend of mine, Mr. Michael Nielsen who’s been living in Dubai for some years. I first met him in Singapore many kilos ago (for me).

Michael’s contact details are as follows:

Michael Nielsen Owners Representative (Middle East / Africa) Asian Spirit Steamship Company

Mob: +97 56 2166877

Email: m.nielsen@assc-ship.com

Web: www.assc-ship.com

The heat in Dubai at this time is hard to fathom. Sometimes it is more than 45°C [113°F]. For my two sons and myself, it does make it a bit difficult to be out “taking a walk”, but luckily most places are air conditioned. Still, it’s a stretch even walking 100 meters.

I managed several meetings in Dubai with various friends and representatives of freight forwarding companies, shipowners, etc. in my capacity as chairman of CLC Projects and Cross Ocean networks. Everyone I met was in agreement about one thing: the market in Dubai (both in shipping and in property) is good, but even here, inflation is showing its ugly head as it is in many parts of the World. Dubai is famous for the wealthy and also for what we call Oligarchs (some may indeed be called Oleg) that choose this place as their hideaway for their often ill-gotten gains. Still, Dubai is not the only place for that around the world, and there will always be a place for money to hide as there will always be an open door available somewhere.

I like Dubai for many reasons: ease of transport, location between East and West, impressive ease of business and getting around, both air and seaports of world class level, and fantastic food. Dubai is also the most international city in India (or so the saying goes) as Indians of the first and most proactive generation have been active here for decades. Yet, so have many other immigrants, calling Dubai their ‘home’ and supporting their families at home. Certainly for greater parts of the Middle East, I believe it is true that those areas would grind to a halt if all the people from the Philippines, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and India were to suddenly return home!

In Dubai, a firm rule of law for all and a clear statement that if you don’t work you cannot be here ensures that no one “hangs around” like so many do in our so-called “developed democracies” of Europe and where we often look down our noses at people and nations here. Perhaps we could learn a thing or two from how well things are done here. At the very least, there is not a 6 hour queue at the airport just to get through security like in Stockholm/Arlanda when we left and as with other airports of Europe. In those airports, it seems that preplanning, solid management, and capability are not always prerequisites for gaining a top job. It appears that it is rather one’s political connections which are paramount if you are to become an airport general manager! See today’s featured video below from when we tried to check into the Emirates flight to Dubai out of Stockholm.

Dubai also has another meaning for me, albeit a sadder one. It was in the English Pub of the Radisson Deira Creek that I, for the last time, had a meal and a drink with my now deceased brother, Jonas who passed away a couple of years ago at the age of only 50. I remember him vividly arriving in his sports car, asking the valet to park it whilst coming to see me for one of the brief moments where we shared some family time. Another reminder to treasure family whilst you got it; treasure the golden minutes; forgive and forget; and continue to place memories in the best bank of all—and no, it is definitely NOT HSBC or Citibank. It is the MEMORY BANK, where you can deposit and withdraw at all times without penalties!

I am leaving on Emirates today for Bangkok which I look forward to, and I shall still be with 2 sons in tow. We will be visiting www.scandinavianvillage.net, a place in Thailand where I bought a small condo. Interestingly, I have in fact never seen it as the Corona hit just as the closing papers were signed – but I trusted the ex BBC Chartering shipping man that sold the unit to me. Let’s see if the “terms of the charterparty” are favourable ☺.

Since we are now on to shipping, I might as well tell you what we have got in store for you today. We start off by visiting some beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean and a country called Mauritius. TRUST LOGISTICS, which is part of a larger local group, tells us a story about logistics in paradise and certainly convinced me to pay them a visit soon.

We then return to the country of the Vikings (nowadays domesticated completely), and here I mean Denmark

and a company called TRUSTED that has a special background for what they do, i.e., selling tracking devices often very useful for checking the actual situation for the cargoes you shipped: how it was treated and moreover WHERE it is….

Finally, we visit a country of steaks, pampas and La Recoleta, and it is of course also known for its inability to pay bills on time: Argentina. We republish an interview we had with ULOG, a strong partner in a complex environment and continent called Latin America.

We, of course, provide you with the usual shipping news, trade intel, wise words, and remind you as always to download our FREE APP

Until next week I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Shikha Bhurtun, Customer Service Executive and Michel Couronne, Business Development Manager at Trust Logistics Ltd. were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Trusted – Silkeborg, Denmark

Ulog – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Peter Nissen, Sales Director at Trusted A/S was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Mr. Dardo Van Megroot Head of International Logistics & Project Cargo

First, can you tell us about the history of Ulog?

Ulog is part of Ultramar, an enterprise group with three business lanes; agency services and integral solutions (DAIS), industrial logistics (KAPTAN) and ports (NELTUME PORTS).

Ulog began operations in Chile in 1999 to provide logistics solutions to various customers of Ultramar. In 2001, Ulog started operations in Argentina and that was the beginning of its international expansion.

In 2007, the leadership and presence of Ulog were consolidated by expanding its network of international agents on a worldwide scale. Currently, the logistics division of Ultramar has consolidated its regional presence with offices in eleven countries within the Americas.

Who are the owners of the company, and for how many years have you worked there?

Ultramar has over sixty-five years of experience in the American continent, acquired by working with over fifty companies, many of them leaders in their respective markets.

Ultramar is a partner you can trust that provides a complete platform of innovative, sustainable and integrated services and solutions, to support the foreign trade in the Americas. Agency services, integrated solutions, industrial logistics, port operations and stowage are part of its main activities.

Efficiency, excellence and quality of service are part of Ultramar’s hallmark. When it comes to our partner companies, we strive to be strategic partners for our customers by contributing to their logistics chains and generating economic dynamism in America’s most important markets, having much respect for the environments in which we develop our activities.

What is your background in shipping and logistics, and how come you chose this career?

I had been working in Ultramar for the previous eleven years and during my career, I worked in different divisions. I started on shipping lines represented by our group (among them MOL, Hyundai Merchant Marine and Yang Ming Line) in the documentation and customer service department at first, and then moved on to the commercial department.

After several years, I moved to the chartering division and, as a senior shipbroker for five years, I was responsible at first for dry markets (project cargo, steel and grains) and then became responsible for the wet markets (oil and chemicals).

For the past two years, I’ve been head of international logistics and projects for Ulog. The rotation that I’ve had within the company has allowed me to learn about several different markets and to understand logistics from different perspectives, such as those of shipping lines, shipbrokers and freight forwarders.

Argentina is a big country that borders with neighbours in South America. As you’ve said you have experience in project cargo, could you provide us with some examples of projects you’ve handled in/out of Argentina?

Yes, Argentina has been developing several big projects over the past decade, mainly in the energy market (oil and gas, renewable energy and mining) which are very intensive on oversized cargo. In the oil and gas market, we are the second country in unconventional gas resources and fourth in unconventional oil resources worldwide. On renewable energy, the government’s goal is that twenty per cent of electricity consumption must come from this source. As a result, Argentina has released public tenders with fiscal incentives to achieve it, and more than a hundred projects have been awarded.

We are a big presence in the above industries and one of our latest projects is the logistics for a new cement plant. We’ve received five breakbulk vessels during 2019, with more than 45,000m3 of cargo. We’ve overseen the complete logistics from the port to the job site, located 350km away from the port (including discharge at the port, inland transportation to bonded warehouse, storage and stowage, inland transportation to the destination).

We’ve moved more than seven hundred trucks (430 semi, 105 OOG semi and 177 low beds) and more than fifty per cent of the cargo was OOG. Also, for this project, we’ve moved more than 400TEUs (standard containers, open top and flat rack containers) of standard materials. It’s been very challenging and a little stressful for us because we received all the cargo and containers within a very short period, but with a great team, as we have, we are currently almost finished on this project, without any great inconvenience.

Where are your offices elsewhere in South America? Also, how would you describe the business environment in general now for Argentina and South America overall?

Yes, our company is present in fifteen countries in the Americas, with more than fifty business units and participation in multiple markets. We have more than 12,000 employees.

I love South America, even though we still have a lot to improve and learn and I like the business environment in general. We are passionate, reliable and friendly. However, we are currently facing some political instability throughout South America and I hope we can solve it as soon as possible to keep growing.

Customs clearance is an issue in every country. Countries like Brazil and others have had difficulties with that for years. How is the situation in Argentina?

Customs clearance in Argentina is as complicated as it is in Brazil, and delays could generate high extra costs, so custom brokers are very important in the logistics processes and usually, a shipper or consignee has their designated custom broker that knows their products and procedures. It is always a smart idea to check with them before confirming any operation.

Are there any shipowners that you generally prefer to work with for Argentine trade if, for example, the cargo originates in Europe or Asia?

No, we do not have any preferred carriers for containers, but we used to work with in-house represented shipping lines like Yang Ming, Hyundai, MSC and ONE, but also with Cosco and Maersk. For RoRo cargo, we work with MOL, ACE, Grimaldi and Wallenius, taking advantage of their strong routes and freight.

Are you a member of any global networks currently? If so, why do you believe that it is a good idea?

We joined the Cross-Ocean network this year. We’ve never joined a network before, but we are now starting to actively participate since we believe that, in a global world like ours is today, it’s a great idea to join. If you are not connected, you’ll lose tons of opportunities for generating good business. We believe it is not enough

to just be part of a network though, as we must be active and proactive, participate at conferences and share information and business opportunities with our partners.

How is best to reach you?

Potential contacts are welcome to get in touch with me in the following ways:

dvanmegroot@ulog.com.ar

Desk: +54114310 2350

Cell/WhatsApp: +5491165321878

WeChat ID: vandardo

http://www.ulog.cl

Long Lines to Check-in at Stockholm / Arlanda Airport

Editor’s Note:

It is certainly not shipping but for shipping people who need to travel it’s a hassle and a situation seen not only as here in Stockholm / Arlanda Airport in the last weeks but also in other European airports. I hope our highly paid airport executives and government ministers get a grip and start understanding the problems on the ground and start doing something about them – facilitating the quick movement of people and goods… lining up 4-6 hours before a flight in a so-called 1st world country seems not-right no matter Covid or not!

Editor’s Note:

It is currently 39+°C here in Dubai, it has been a pleasure to see the “old shipping” area of Deira Creek and from here I was able to zoom-in to photograph the Burj Khalifa, the Worlds tallest building…

Wise Words

June 23, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 23rd of June and PCW is back again.

It is the 2nd to last issue before I take a summer break in the month of July. For that I have agreed with the dragon (aka wife) that we will bundle the kids into the car and all of us will drive to my native country of Denmark to stay in the small but important port city of Grenaa where my parents are living. Although they are of a certain age and frail, we have our own place to stay in, so we don’t outstay our welcome. As we all know, family is great, but more often than not, you DO need your own place before there is a run or a queue at the bathroom, etc. ☺

I spent the last week in Dubai. After Dubai, I went to Bangkok where I haven’t been since pre-Covid. Back then, I bought a small condo in Bangsaen at a place called www.scandinavianvillage.net which has as a prerequisite that you must speak a Scandinavian language, and you must be 50+ of age. Since I could fulfill those criteria, I decided back then to buy a small unit, but then Covid struck, and we all scrambled for our home countries in order NOT to get locked up.

So this trip for me was a first—not only to Thailand in almost 3 years but also to see the place where I could spend winter months for sure when retirement time closes in. You may enjoy a few pictures from the place here (from the condo area and Bangsaen beach). Basically, at 59, I am one of the youngest there, but it is still ideal for relaxing, working out, and other leisure activities. The village’s location in Bangsaen (1 hour straight from Bangkok International Airport) is ideal. There is also a shuttle bus to the beach and it is located halfway between Pattaya and Laem Chabang which is the main container port of Thailand (pictures here).

Thailand gave a good impression. Immigration was swift, efficient, and I also heard during my stay in this great country that they would abolish the Thailand Pass and Covid tests before departure etc., by July 1st. Let us hope that is true because no doubt a lot of people lost their jobs in Thailand — which was and still has the

potential to be a massive tourist destination. Although I have a feeling that the government would like a bit of a better clientele if you know what I mean. Mass tourism, especially from Western Europe or from China, is not necessarily always a winner, particularly if they don’t respect the culture, and just come for the cheap booze, the almost limitless entertainment and the go-go bars.

Thailand gave a good impression. Immigration was swift, efficient, and I also heard during my stay in this great country that they would abolish the Thailand Pass and Covid tests before departure etc., by July 1st. Let us hope that is true because no doubt a lot of people lost their jobs in Thailand — which was and still has the potential to be a massive tourist destination. Although I have a feeling that the government would like a bit of a better clientele if you know what I mean. Mass tourism, especially from Western Europe or from China, is not necessarily always a winner, particularly if they don’t respect the culture, and just come for the cheap booze, the almost limitless entertainment and the go-go bars.

Location-wise Bangkok is ideal. I recall Bangkok from the days of the Don Muang Airport, but nowadays it’s quite clean and organised. Yes, traffic is heavy as it should be in such a major Asian city, but there is everything you want in terms of food, places to see and go, and sights to behold including historical ones. With a location surrounded by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and China not far away, it’s also quite a good and strategic place to be for logistics, I would imagine.

Thailand is a place to retire, and many do spend the summer months at “home” and the winter months in Thailand. One thing I have noticed though is when speaking even to some expats who have “lived in Thailand for years”, it’s incredible how dumb and ignorant some of them still are with regards to the country they live in, the culture of the place, let alone the history, etc., so the old saying – “just because you live abroad doesn’t mean you know abroad” – certainly rings true… particularly if you don’t make the effort!

While there, I met with a few members in the networks of which I am chairman. I also met with some former colleagues from my Martin Bencher days and even all the way back from my Penta Shipping days, meeting the former shipping manager of Ericsson: by far the largest airfreight exporter that keeps most forwarders in Stockholm on life support these days.

I heard during my trip that in Europe, transport chaos is around the corner, not only in the UK but even more so in other countries relating to industrial action in airports, ports and what not. Yes, we may face tougher times ahead in Europe, and we may have to tighten our belts a bit more… perhaps getting used to NOT having the yearly skiing trip to Austria or the worry-free 5 weeks of vacation exactly when we want… as the world is

Map of the Bangsaen, Sri Racha, Laem Chabang, Pattaya region and it’s proximity to Suvarnabhumi Airport and Bangkok

awash in massive debts and unpredictable dictators go towards another recession. Still, out of something bad often comes something good. So, it could be that it’s time for a “correction” as a banker would say (as long as it’s not about correcting his/her bonus… of course ☺).

In this 2nd to last issue of the first 6 months of 2022, we have the following in store for you:

We visit the country that was not far away from the Spaniards when it came to visiting foreign countries and claiming them for the motherland, and in places such as Goa, Macau, Mozambique, Brazil, etc. the language and country of Portugal can be remembered vividly. So yes, we visit Portugal, a favourite hang out for some tax-free (until recently) retirees, and I believe a couple of oligarchs with local passports by now, and we speak to a company called Six Overseas Transport Solutions who tell an interesting story.

After that we go to the country that stands out in the Middle East amidst challenges while holding on to a democratic political system, and we are here talking about Israel. A country still on my bucket list, they surely know a thing or two about having difficult neighbours and can tell Europe a thing or two on how to watch out for bigger bullies. Kamor Logistics tells us about what they can do locally and on the international scene.

We then republish an article we had with a Danish but Norwegian-owned company that set up shop in a former Portuguese colony, Mozambique to develop business far away from home and for once without Scandinavian taxpayers footing the bill for yet another “government aid project”. Glad to see that some companies just “go for it”… Tschudi Logistics tells their story here, and it’s worth re-visiting.

We remain, until next week (30th of June) which is our last issue before our summer break,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Six Overseas Transport Solutions S.A. – Portugal, Lisbon

Interview with Mr. Ricardo Lemos and Mr. Lima Pereira Managing Directors

Please tell our readers about the history of your company. Who are the current owners?

The project began in 2020 due to the purchase of Panalpina by DSV. An operational team from Panalpina moved with us as they believed in this challenge.The company was an existing company that was bought by a group of investors and rebranded.

Six Overseas is a joint Stock Company with several shareholders and with the management shared by Ricardo Lemos and Lima Pereira.

There are many freight forwarders in Portugal I believe. In your own words, what makes you special do you think?

In Portugal, there are around 600 freight forwarders, and it is a very competitive market. Our main goal is the straight connection with the stakeholders and premium customer service. We have a young and experienced team that is committed to offering the extra-mile to achieve the objectives proposed by the company. What makes us different is the strong position that we have nowadays in niche markets, customers and solutions. We invest greatly in professionals with expertise that can provide out-of-the-box solutions that help us gain an advantage in the market and create added value to our stakeholders.

Do you have general experience in handling oversized cargoes, and if so, could you provide our readers with some examples of cargoes you have handled?

Yes, since we started Six Overseas activity, we have always been linked to special transports and industrial

projects. So, this is part of our company’s DNA. For that reason, we have developed our oversize cargo department, hiring an experienced person with more than 25 years in bulk and shipping: Sebastien Cusson has spent almost all of his career in Nile Dutch and K&N Projects to lead the same. In addition to the knowledge of the heavy lift and complex environment projects, he brings to the organization and customers his international field culture and experience. Sebastien is also fluent in several different languages, for example French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew, and Moroccan Arabic.

The main projects that we are now involved with are:

– Light Tram of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem – Israel

– Port Ashdod Terminal Cargo Train – Israel

– Bergen Railway – Norway

– Light Tram of Mississauga – Canada

– Fos-Sur-Mer Gas depot supply of all transports to supply the works and dismantling – France

– HS2 High speed rails – Balfour Beatty VINCI Joint Venture – UK

– HPC Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station – Bouygues Travaux Publics and Laing O’Rourke – UK

– Femern Belt Link – 18 underwater tunnel – VINCI Joint Venture – Denmark

Portugal has several ports. Can you elaborate on that and tell our readers about the ports available for shipping in Portugal?

The main ports in Portugal for containerized cargo are Lisboa, Setúbal, Sines, and Leixões.

For Bulk Cargo: Leixões Aveiro, Figueira da Foz, and Viana do Castelo

RORO Cargo: Leixões and Setúbal

How is the Corona situation affecting your business at the moment? Do you also find that it is difficult to procure space with the shipping lines, and how are they treating you as freight forwarders?

Since the beginning, the Corona virus has been a challenge. Meanwhile, we have got some huge business opportunities. We have had the support of some shipping lines and even during the peak of Covid, we have made allotments to assure our flow with our clientele. We have not suffered a huge impact, and we have been recognized by our clients and agents. Looking forward, we are aware there will be challenges that we will face as part of business development.

When did you personally start your career in shipping & logistics?

Ricardo Lemos started in Shipping & Logistics in 1994 in Bolloré and Panalpina. Lima Pereira began in 1995 and worked solely in Panalpina.

Please let our readers know your contacts.

Our main contacts are:

Sebastien Cusson – sebastien.cusson@sixoverseas.com – Ph +351 937 116 758

Ricardo Lemos – ricardo.lemos@sixoverseas.com – Ph +351 935 031 371

Lima Pereira – lima.pereira@sixoverseas.com – Ph +351 935 013 551

Website: sixoverseas.com

Kamor Logistics Ltd – Israel, Haifa

Interview with Ms. Ayelet Oren

Forwarding Manager

First of all, could you tell our readers about the history of Kamor Logistics? Who owns it, and what is your main line of business, etc?

“Kamor Logistics” was founded in 2016. Our company is a subsidiary of “Kamor Shipping and Tanker Services” which has existed since 1996.

Our main business concentrates on projects. We aim to serve as a logistical provider for parties active in infrastructural works on a national scale.

We also handle Door-to-Door shipments of all kinds by sea and air import and export.

Israel has several ports. Could you tell us about the ports available for handling project cargoes and the ones that are mostly used for serving your international trade?

The most active ports in Israel are Haifa & Ashdod. Both are used for international trade. The final choice of which port depends on the project.

Do you have experience in handling project cargoes? If so, could you provide us with a few examples?

Please see below 3 of our many projects:

Example 1: **Recently we have finished a wide-scale project named theTel Aviv Light Rail (also called Dankal wagons delivery). Over the last 2 years, 90 units were shipped and assembled.

This new transport mode is currently under construction and is very much awaited by Tel Aviv metropolitan area residents. The goal is to finally create modern and high-speed connections in the most populated part of Israel between such cities as Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva, Bnei Brak, Ramat Gan, Bat Yam, Herzliya, Holon, Rishon LeZion, etc. The line is expected to be completed in late 2022.

Example 2: **Heavy Geothermal Power Plant modules delivery from Haifa Port in Israel to Izmir in Turkey.

The shipment consisted of 12 units for a Geothermal Power Plant Project.

The items were produced by a local Israeli leading industrialist that produces components and parts for geothermal power plants

Kamor Logistics’ scope of work here was to charter a General Cargo Coaster for the voyage, rent a private heavylift hydraulic crane for loading, manage the stowage and cargo securing, and delivering the cargo under hook in Izmir.

All cargo units were loaded onboard mv Envar, a small general cargo coaster vessel chartered by Kamor Logistics for the mission. The loading, stowage, and cargo securing were meticulously planned and performed by

Kamor Logistics’ team of experts. The cargo was released and discharged by our trusted Turkish counterpart, Ilya Shipping.

This was yet another challenging task successfully executed by Kamor Logistics Ltd.

Kamor Logistics was contracted to deliver 50 units of ‘Y25 type’ railcars bogies from the manufacturer in Slovakia to receiver’s yard in Hadera, Israel.

The Bogies were loaded on trucks at Producers’ plant in Poprad, Slovakia, and then transported to our designated Depot in Koper, Slovenia.

In Koper we had the Bogies loaded in two tiers on Flat Rack that were then shipped from Koper Port to Haifa Port on a container liner.

We managed the preplanning and the containers’ lashing program using our in-house Port Captain. In Haifa we had the flats loaded on designated railcars that delivered them to receivers’ Depot in Hadera, where the Flats were duly stripped and emptied, and then duly returned to Port.

How about customs clearance in your country? Is it complicated or easy?

Example 3: **Railcar Bogies for the Israeli Train Company

Customs clearance in Israel can be easy if all documents are prepared and handled before arrival.

Are there any particular shipowners that you think are better in serving Israel’s foreign trade compared to others?

MSC and Maersk.

How is the Corona situation currently in your country?

There is still corona in Israel, but there are no restrictions. Most people are vaccinated.

What are the advantages of using Kamor Logistics in your opinion?

Kamor Logistics has many years of experience in projects. Our company takes part in projects of governmental companies like Israel Electric Corp. and NTA Metropolitan Mass Transit System Ltd.(which is the company responsible for the design and construction of the mass transit system for the Tel Aviv metropolis which we mentioned ea).

We in Kamor Logistics provide our clients with professional and personal service. We are available at any time, and our aim is that our clients will be satisfied.

How is it best for our readers to get in touch with you?

Ayelet Oren

Forwarding Manager

Kamor Logistics LTD

Phone: +972-4-8681038

Mobile: +972-54-3954038

Email: info@kamorlogistics.com

www.kamorlogistics.com

WhatsApp

Ignazio Messina & C. – Genoa, Italy

First of all, could you elaborate a bit on the history and current ownership of Messina Group?

Ignazio Messina & C. is mainly a shipping company. Last year we celebrated our first century of shipping. Our company offers international maritime line services from the Mediterranean to North Africa, East and South Africa, the Red Sea, India-Pakistan and the Arabian Gulf, West Africa.

Interview with Mr. Ignazio Messina CEO

On our modern container ConRo ships – the biggest ever built – we accept containers, RORO cargo, general cargo, yacht, project cargo and, generally speaking, every kind of goods which can be shipped via ramp, 350 tons. of max load.

Since the 70s, Messina Line became a terminal operator in the Port of La Spezia, then in the Port of Genoa and in other ports in Africa and a multi-transport operator offering an end-to-end service via intermodal transports and managing many intermodal terminals.

Our newsletter focuses on project and related cargoes. Can you tell our readers about the type of tonnage that you employ and also your main trade lanes for those who are not familiar with the routing of Messina Line?

We manage our containers on ConRo-specialized ships on the services beyond the Suez Canal, and mainly we transport project cargo to/from the Mediterranean, from/to the Red Sea, mainly Saudi Arabia and Jordan, and India and Arabian Gulf, mainly United Arab Emirates and Upper Gulf, but often even East South African countries are involved in project cargo.

Are containers available via Messina Line and/or do you also accept SOC containers? I understand that you employ a range of RoRo vessels in your service. How about the ramp capacity and opening height?

We have a 55.000 TEU container fleet, owned and chartered containers, but we also accept SOC containers. The big jumbo ramp at the stern of our ConRo vessels has a max load of 350 tons, with a 12,5 mt free drive breadth, and a wide stern door with 27 by 7 meters of clear passage.

Nowadays, many shipowners wish to be the jack of all trades. In other words, they want to be freight forwarders, air freight specialists, and liner operators. What is the policy of Messina Line? Are you “freight forwarder friendly” so to speak?

Yes, we are “Freight Forwarder friendly” because they are our main clients and we want to respect them, even if we are in touch with the other sectors but always in agreement with their/our clients, the freight forwarder. We have mainly grown in the supply chain offering our maritime services, terminal operations, inland transports, stuffing and unstuffing containers, platforms, mafi, flat rack…generally speaking an end-to-end service not only in the container market.

Did Corona affect you adversely or did you also experience fully-booked vessels and space problems? What is the situation going to be in your view looking at your crystal ball for 2023?

During the Coronavirus pandemic, mainly in the second period (2021- first half of 2022), we had fully-booked vessels and high rates of freight, but we granted to our main clients a first class service in comparison with the global carriers because, even thanks to our specialized ships, we didn’t suffer congestion in the ports nor lack of equipment.

Unfortunately, we don’t have a crystal ball, and it’s very difficult to prepare the 2023 budget, due to the weak container market; we update our forecast twice a week.

We can say that the RoRo market will still be strong in the first half of 2023, even if there is a switch from RoRo to container for the automotive market due to the lack of ships and lower container rates. Let’s hope container freight rates stop decreasing, while the project cargo will be more stable. Surely 2023 will not be as 2022, the best year ever in our history.

Can you please give our readers your contact information?

Our website is https://www.messinaline.it/.

Interactive Map Onboard Emirates Flight Dubai to Bangkok

Editor’s Note:

Shipping without flying is often not possible, at least if you want to meet other shipping people face to face, so here is a short video from the Emirates flight I took last week from Dubai to Bangkok. Excellent service also in Y class on Emirates and you can follow the flight route in detail – always bumpy ride over India but and I suppose no-one likes turbulence in the air or in life…

Editor’s Note:

Tribute to a great country, Thailand, with nice people, excellent food and a welcoming culture. Here a view towards Laem Chabang from the port of Sri Racha about 1 hr south of Bangkok.

Wise Words

WEEK 26 – 2022

June 30, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is the last day of the month of June. It happens to be a Thursday which also means that Project Cargo Weekly is here again.

In my editorials, I often lament about how quickly time passes, and today is no exception. Already 6 months of the year has passed, and all of us in shipping are generally looking into an uncertain autumn and winter with rising interest rates and an invasion of an independent country in the heart of Europe whilst the rest of Europe goes about their business as usual. It is indeed a kind of a weird situation. Silence before the storm perhaps? I am not a prophet of doom, but it does seem to me that a major correction is underway, and the era of cheap loans and massive credits and debts without limit for consumption are coming to an end.

Perhaps a major clean up is just what the doctor ordered, and whilst the war in Ukraine is ongoing, we still keep on helping to finance it by buying Russian oil & gas. There ought to be considerable embarrassment in the politically correct circles of Europe, and it does seem that neither Ms. Merkel nor Mr. Schroder (or are they Dr. … now ?) have said much publicly in recent months, small wonder…!

Scandinavia was hit by another tragedy last week when a fundamentalist shot indiscriminately into a crowd at a gay bar in Oslo. The police in one of their usual statements (we always hear the same in Sweden, Germany, France, etc.) said that the fundamentalist HAD been arrested before for violent acts, he WAS on their radar. So what was he doing out and about if he WAS on their radar?

Our open societies are vulnerable, but we make ourselves more vulnerable because we are naive in the extreme in the belief that fundamentalists can be “turned around”. Psychologists, “treatment vendors”, and other do-gooders (especially people from the left-leaning segment of politics) always have the right explanation. It goes like this: We must do more for the children growing up; we must provide more social workers to support

the families; and we must do something about their job opportunities. Have you heard this song before? There is never anything about what duty the perpetrators and/or their families have, especially after being granted a free haven in our open countries as opposed to the dictatorships they have escaped. Why “escape” to another country if you want to live like at home in the first place? Try to speak about the elephant in the room, and you are immediately labelled a racist. Few, if any, speak about the racism towards the original inhabitants shown by some of the “refugees”. Racism in Western media is always the big, bad white guy offending and mistreating a person who is different.

There is a saying: “The water tastes good, but who dug the well?”. What I mean to say about this is that it is my belief that all of us in business need to backtrack and think over the following: “Was it really me who won this project? Was I the only one responsible for the success?” For the most part, we as human beings tend to take all or most of the credit for what we as individuals have achieved whilst forgetting that actually, we received the initial help, hint or support leading to our success from someone else.

I have tried to live according to a simple mantra which is: “Be proud but NOT arrogant; Be humble but NOT crawling.” I believe that mantra encapsulates very well the ideal businessman, and when I meet business people from around the world, many of them successful in their own right, I always ask the question: “Are you successful OR do you just happen to work in a place where the market has taken off?” It is easy to forget and become spellbound when the going is good. Remember that real friends are the ones who are there for you when there is a downturn. That says a lot more than the opposite.

PCW shall be taking a backseat during the month of July, and I shall be languishing in my native country of Denmark during the whole month, only interrupted by a trip to Italy where my oldest son is celebrating his wedding party which finally now is on post Covid. It will be a good time to recharge the batteries, relax at the beach, and speak my own language—no matter how many years you have been away (for me since 1986), you cannot hide your origin, and the older you get, the more you will look for the past. Perhaps it’s age creeping up.

So before I give you a synopsis of what we’ve got in store for you today, let me remind you to look at the following (which you may enjoy at will during the July summer break):

PCW Media Kit Video

CLC Projects Group Video

As for today’s issue, we’ve got 3 excellent video interviews in store. Starting off with a major and very important organisation for the shipping industry, we speak to BIMCO in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is worthwhile to be a member of BIMCO as they also offer competent legal advice if requested, it may save you some lawyer fees in the worst case!

We then speak to WCS Consultancy, a new entity under DP World/WCS, and they offer interesting insights into what they can do for ports and terminals worldwide. Most impressive to note is that the interviewee has worked in the Comoros Islands, The Falklands, and Iraq…!

Finally, we speak to another company based in the UAE, i.e., GAC – Gulf Agency Company which has Swedish roots and like a modern day IKEA in shipping has grown immensely in recent decades.

I also have a quick reminder that our first issue of PROJECT CARGO WEEKLY after the summer break will be published on August 4th, 2022.

Wishing you good health and happiness and I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Erik Jensby, Head of Business Development & Membership at BIMCO was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: WCS Consultancy - Dubai, U.A.E.

Video Interview: GAC – Dubai, U.A.E.

Stewart Lawton, General Manager WCS Consulting – DP World was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Sudesh Chaturvedi, General Manager of Projects & Energy at GAC (Gulf Agency Company) – Dubai, U.A.E. was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Windturbine Tower Sections Arriving Port of Kopmanholmen, Sweden Onboard

UHL Focus from Vietnam

Editor’s Note:

Soon to be 2 years ago I visited the port of Kopmanholmen where one of several project cargo vessels were arriving with windturbine tower sections from Asia. This time it was well renowned United Heavylift which had their UHL FOCUS coming from Vietnam to this mini port on the Swedish East Coast.

Editor’s Note:

An extremely heavy project was successfully executed by Martin Bencher Sweden, who was nominated to perform the heaviest transport on Swedish roads to date. The convoy had a total weight of 762 tons and was 5,5 meters wide and 105 meters long.

Wise Words

PROJECT LOGISTICS AND OOG DELIVERY

AND CENTRAL ASIA FOR KAZAKHSTAN

WEEK 31 – 2022

August 4, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 4th of August, and after quite a long holiday during the month of July, it is now time to slowly get started again.

It is always difficult to get in gear again, and sometimes I get a feeling that you need a holiday after the holiday to rest up… Having said that, I must admit that I did enjoy it this year. For me it was a simple and traditional holiday, bundling the whole family into our car.

5 people, lots of luggage and 3 bicycles on the back of the car before we set off for Denmark and my hometown of Grenaa. My parents have lived there for 25 years. They are now old and on my father’s part quite frail. None-the-less, they were, of course, happy to have us around. We got an apartment in Grenaa so that we didn’t “overstay” our welcome, and so we could be on our own as we all know family is great but in smaller doses at a time right ? ☺

We drove 500 km across Sweden to the port city of Halmstad and from there 4 1/2 hrs direct to Grenaa. The ferry is more of a freighter ferry and thus pretty boring, but at least being on the high seas is always a pleasure. Here are a few pictures from the trip across the sea of Kattegat and Grenaa to give you an idea.

We left on the 3rd of July and returned on the 28th to Stockholm. The highlight of the trip this year (for me at least) was attending my oldest son’s wedding which took place in Tuscany. With some 40 degrees from early morning during the 3 days, it was a challenge to keep hydrated – even with both water and wine. Yet, it was a fantastic and romantic event, and I gotta admit that I did shed a tear during the ceremony and also later on during my speech. I suppose it will come to us all when you see your first born being “sent off” so to speak. With him and his wife both now living in New York, we, of course, also had time to speak in detail as one should. The venue was incredible, see here if you ever plan a wedding and want it to be romantic and in wonderful scenery with great food, wine and overall ambience and here are a few “neutral” pictures from the event / venue.

For me, I had better check if they also do divorces… ☺

For my children (at least the younger 3 of them) I believe their highlight during the trip was the visit to LEGOLAND, always a place worth visiting! It is one of the best innovations for kids (and adults) ever – and squarely beats giving your kids iPads and mobile phones. Here are a few pictures from our LEGOLAND 2022 trip.

Strange coincidence – my father actually worked for a while at LEGO. I think it was 1969-1970 but the pay was so lousy back then that he had to go back out sailing on the high seas to earn a decent income. Not that LEGO nowadays cannot afford to pay decent salaries, but perhaps way back then it was different… ☺ As we all know, “more wants more”, right ?

A never-ending story and speaking of which, I managed to finish a good book about that very thing, focusing on the tax havens of the world and the role they play even in modern day life facilitating what dictators (guess who for example) are doing in foreign countries. It’s a good read, the book is called MONEYLAND.

There is never a holiday for me without business. I guess I am simply incapable of totally switching off, but as a wise man said: “if you like what you do, you are not working a day in your life”. For me, networking is exactly that. Many contacts from overseas were home in Denmark on vacation just like me, so managed to meet with people from the US and Taiwan as well as local contacts such as Eimskip, Aarhus, Tschudi Project Transport Aarhus, Martin Bencher Aarhus, Port of Grenaa, DSV Billund etc.

Now back in Stockholm, no good deed goes unpunished, so I am off today to Croatia to meet a good contact of mine, Mr. Marin Skufca, the partner in Liburnia Maritime. We haven’t met for a long time, and I never before had the time to really visit the country outside the main cities. So will be spending 3 days on the island of KRK and also visiting Opatija and Rijeka. In fact, we had an interview with Marin a couple of years ago in PCW – you may, if you wish, re-visit the interview with Liburnia Maritime here

The best thing about the shipping business is meeting with people on a global scale. If you are humble and open-minded and not least of all friendly, you will find that most reciprocate because ultimately the last jacket has NO pockets, and we are not bringing anything with us are we? So best do when you can, spend when you have, and remember that it is always good to save for a rainy day, but has it ever rained for 3 months?

As you know, I always have some political observations. However, since the month of July is ‘weak’ from that standpoint, I do not have that much input to give. The war in the Ukraine is still raging, and life goes on in the

rest of Europe. Yet, there is no doubt that after this warm summer may come a cold winter with either very expensive or unavailable gas for heating.

All this is a result of green hysteria and incompetent politicians selling out too fast for their own “silver”. Sweden, for example, has closed very well-functioning nuclear power plants already, but I guess the Green Party can heat up their cafe lattes and power up their electrical bicycles without using energy. Believe me – I am all for a green and sustainable environment, but not blindly – just like I believe we still need to be able to pay in cash and not only by card. Why can’t both co-exist? Why must it be one or the other? The wind turbines keep on coming to our part of the world – of course produced elsewhere where it is cheaper and perhaps NOT very green and then transported around the world. This is good for shipping but for the environment? I doubt it. Question is: “Are we and the “talking classes” ready to pay the price? “ We shall see. Sometimes the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine…

Right, it is time to turn to business again and really get into gear.

We start off today with a visit to a country famous for cars, middle-sized business with high quality (or at least they used to be) and heavy but still tasty food, and of course we are talking about Germany. We speak to TRADELINK GMBH who can sort out any transportation problem including chartering that you may have!

We then have a video interview with ISS GLOBAL FORWARDING, a company that has grown immensely in the recent months and are becoming global. We speak to them from a “hotspot” and a place that was famous for being invaded by a big neighbour years ago, i.e., KUWAIT.

We finally talk to a company based in a country known for “the bridge between Asia/Europe” and “the place of delights” , and here we are not talking about the leadership but rather the sweets (i.e., Turkish delights). KITA LOGISTICS in Istanbul is a strong and competent player, not only to/from Turkey but also to/from Central Asia.

We, of course, provide you with shipping news, trade intel, wise words and last but not least featured photo and video of the week.

Do enjoy this first issue after the summer of 2022, and remember that we are here repeatedly every Thursday until early December when we take a break again.

Comments, input and suggestions are always welcome. Do feel free to write to me at any time: bo.drewsen@ projectcargo-weekly.com. We play no favourites, and we are willing to interview and publish news about anyone having a contribution to make to shipping worldwide!

Until next Thursday,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

TradeLink & Associates – Breakbulk & Projects - Hamburg, Germany

First and foremost Kevin & Malte, can you tell our readers about the history of TradeLink? Who are the owners of the company?

TradeLink & Associates GmbH was founded in September 2020 and became operational by January 2021.

We have all been working together as a team with the previous employer for several years, before Thomas Butz and Harald Dönselmann decided to establish their own business organization and to continue and improve what they successfully developed during the previous 20 years (approximately).

Looking at how exciting the journey was until then, there was no doubt that we should support this step and become part of the “new” team as well.

I understand that you are specialized in chartering. Many companies tell me that they are good in chartering. Please tell our readers what makes you the company to “go to” for chartering matters.

Interview with Mr. Kevin Kastens

Mr. Malte Bode Manager Breakbulk & Projects Head of Breakbulk & Projects

First of all (and linking back to the previous question), both the management of the company and the employees have vast experience in chartering and the specific terms for many years, allowing us to work out the best possible conditions for our client’s requirements.

In this regard, we like to point out that we have strengthened our position as the neutral and reliable partner of all project forwarders throughout the last two decades.

Second, we have very long lasting relationships with major owners in the particular trades we are serving, giving us a great market overview and the ability to find the right tonnage at the right time.

To go more into detail here, our main trades are from North Continent / UK / Scandinavia to the Mediterranean / Marmara / Black Sea (and vice versa), as well as from/to Russia, Caspian Sea and Sea of Azov.

The latter, however, are on hold for the moment due to well known reasons.

Besides these trades, we concluded some interesting overseas project shipments, e.g. from China and UAE to Europe, as well as from European ports to US and Mexican ports during the last 12 months.

Last but not least, it is not only the chartering which is a part of our core competency, but also the professional evaluation, operation and post-fixture view on the entire picture for each and every cargo/shipment which is fixed with us in order to ensure a smooth and trouble-free performance.

So our credo is that the job is done to a satisfactory level only when all parties involved are happy with the result.

Are you a shipowner or are you finding the tonnage in the market for inquiries, and how do you differentiate yourself from others?

We do not own tonnage, and thus are looking in the market to connect the cargoes of our clients with the right vessel at the right time.

Having said that, due to our good connection and network/partnerships established, we have partly an exclusive access to some particular tonnage and are able to always find a good solution.

How do you view the shipping market at the moment from a “chartering” perspective? It has escaped no one that the market is incredibly strong and owners hold all the cards. What is your view on this overall?

Indeed the market is very strong and has definitely changed since early 2021.

A lot of owners we work together with will recall that there were times during the last years where the situation was quite difficult, i.e., the availability of vessels/space was much higher than the actual demand.

So we always try to have in sight, together with both our clients and owners, the long-term point of view and proceed on a “take and give” basis.

“Be gentle today and have a good working environment with satisfactory outcomes for all parties involved tomorrow as well” – this is how our business approach can be summarized best.

Russia and parts around Russia seems to be a no-go area at the moment due to the war in Ukraine. Has this affected your business, and if so, how are you dealing with it?

As mentioned earlier, our business is definitely affected as our services destined for Russia including North-

ern Russia and the Russian inland waterways as well as the Caspian Sea (the latter being served by Russian flagged river-sea-vessels and barges (lo/lo and ro/ro) are suspended until further notice due to current situation.

It is not only that the cargoes to Russia are missing as a lot of Shippers have stopped their activities to these destinations, but also the in-depth cooperation with Russian ship owners is affected currently

However, TradeLink has diversified their portfolio and has entered into other markets/trade lanes, where we have built up good relationships with both clients and also ship owners. Besides, existing trades have been strengthened and improved as well.

Still, needless to mention that we hope the situation in Ukraine is going to improve as early as possible – not only from a business point of view, but especially from a humanitarian position.

How do you view the shipping market at the moment from a “chartering” perspective? It has escaped no one that the market is incredibly strong and owners hold all the cards. What is your view on this overall?

KK: I always had a maritime relation. Starting with several vacations on a sailing boat, my family moved to Wangerooge (a very small island in the North Sea) when I was 16 years old. On the beach promenade of Wangerooge you can see all the different vessels / vessel types going to Wilhelmshaven, Bremerhaven/Bremen and Hamburg which fascinated me once I looked at the North Sea. Starting my career in shipping in 2011, I loved the personal touch from the beginning. Even though we are trading and working internationally, this “breakbulk and project world” is still a very small environment where you meet everyone not only twice. I learned really quickly that breakbulk and project cargo is still a very personal business in a really fast-growing and digital world which is why I have never regretted choosing shipping.

MB: I can mainly share what Kevin stated. There has always been a relation with the maritime industry within my family, as some members have been working in the shipping/logistics industry for a long time. The positions they have taken always sounded like it was a very interesting branch, and so far, I have not been disappointed with all the good times I was able to witness. The personal relationships which I have developed within the industry for the last 13 years since I have become part of the shipping world are a fantastic experience, and it is good to see that such relationships are still worth a lot when it comes to a good cooperation and way of doing business. That is exactly what makes this industry so exciting and keeps me inside of the “circle”.

How is it best for our members to reach you?

Best way to reach us is to give us a call or a short email:

info@tradelink.gmbh / Phone: +49 (0) 421 572 328 00

kevin.kastens@tradelink.gmbh / Phone: +49 (0) 421 572 328 27

malte.bode@tradelink.gmbh / Phone: +49 (0) 421 572 328 29

thomas.butz@tradelink.gmbh / Phone: +49 (0) 421 572 328 28

If you are interested in some of our recent shipments you can follow us on LinkedIn as well.

https://tradelink.gmbh/

Video Interview: ISS Global Forwarding – Farwaniya, Kuwait

Video Interview: Kita Logistics – Istanbul, Turkey

Fatma Alshemmary, Country Manager, Kuwait at ISS Global Forwarding was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Emre Eldener, CEO of Kita Logistics was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Oldendorff Bulker Being Loaded with Scrap Steel for Chennai at Port of Grenaa, Denmark

Editor’s Note:

The Port of Grenaa, Denmark (www.port-of-grenaa.com is very active both in project cargo and in the demolition of ships and the subsequent export of steel scrap as seen here with this footage from an Oldendorff bulker being loaded for Chennai last week. Good for the circular economy that ships old and new can be used again and again…

Editor’s Note:

In the real world both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources should be able to live together! the green parties of the world mainly being hysterical about their cause forget that the wind sometimes doesn’t blow and the sun sometimes doesn’t shine so in case you want to be independent better have a MIX of your energy sources – as shown in this picture from LEGOLAND, Denmark. In PCW’s view this is how it should be.

Wise Words

WEEK 32 – 2022

August 11, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 11th of August and we are here again.

Last week, I was in Croatia. I visited the port city of Rijeka and also the beautiful city of Opatija where my grandmother had already visited some 50 years ago. The Adriatic sea is gorgeous, and with islands abound, it is really a place to visit with crystal clear waters, friendly people, nice food, and good wines. You may view some pictures here from the trip which was courtesy of my host Liburnia Maritime Rijeka (their boat) www.liburniamar.hr.

It was also last week when I thought of the old saying “workers of the world unite” but in today’s context I should rephrase it to “project freight forwarders / forwarders of the world unite”. It may be theoretical only, impossible on a practical level. Yet, when I learned that my former company (which I left in 2012) was sold to one of the biggest of them all, I got to thinking. Lines being flush with cash from COVID-19 and supply chain disruption freight rates, my first thought was indeed: “Ah, now for sure, one shipowner made it abundantly clear that ‘Hey, we take no prisoners here; we want to do it all, end to end 100%’ ”. I am, of course ,talking about the purchase of the Martin Bencher Group by Maersk Line. The detailed press release is in the shipping news below, but why I am so awoken by it is because I was one of the two founders back in 1997 (see interview and history explained here from the 4 minute mark).

Before that, I even worked for what was then Martin Bencher (UK) Ltd., which has a history dating back to 1881. As you know, everything in the UK is old and thus respectable ☺ .

Traditionally, the ship owners did the ocean part, and freight forwarders did the land part. However, increasingly over the last few years, the ship owners have gone ashore and even a couple of forwarders and shippers are now ship owners in their own right. Yet, this is nothing on the scale of what Maersk Line in particular is now doing with a Direct hit against project freight forwarders. One contact among several commented the

following to me and I quote:

“Meanwhile this will also be a big game changer in the project market. We just had a case two weeks ago, when our coordinator had asked Maersk for rates for our mid-sized customer’s project. After two hours, the customer told us Maersk had called them direct, saying MSK will, in any case, make it 1000 USD cheaper per container.

Luckily, this is a loyal customer, and they told Maersk there’s so much added value we bring that they will use us, and we then booked it from another carrier.

Buying market share is not the same as being capable, is it?” unquote

It does mean, however, that freight and now also project freight forwarders do need to look at the way they do business. First and foremost:

1.Stay more loyal to the carriers who treat you well; don’t jump ship the minute you can save a bit. I think perhaps your customers now finally understand what you do for them. There ARE such lines available.

2.Explain to your customers not to shop around endlessly which, of course, forces you to do the same in turn. Help them to see that ‘savings’ can often be more costly in the end.

3.Clarify to them your perfect role as the bridge to several solutions, not just one solution. The ship owner will only offer their solution, and it may not fit. In fact, cargo may be rolled over again and again, as many customers have seen. Show your worth to your clients by having alternatives ready. What is the owner’s claim procedure, if any? Does anyone even answer email or pick up the phone?

4.Stay incredibly close to your customers as only you know how. Spend time developing that personal, business relationship. Loyalty is key, and there are people in this world not only going for price.

5.implement a traffic light system style rating system (eg. red, yellow, green) as to which shipowners are forwarder-friendly, and speak to your colleagues and networks. You may be a member of FIATA or similar. Since shippers are together in shippers’ associations and ship owners in cartels of different sizes, so must you be!

There are more golden rules. One is, of course, to keep on reading projectcargo-weekly.com, but regrettably, that doesn’t guarantee you business ☺.

As for the shipowners, they have different policies, and one of them is CMA CGM which bought CEVA Lo-

gistics about 2 years ago did come out directly with a statement about their keeping distance to the line. At least that is something….again reality, of course, will show. We thus republish an interview we had with the head of project cargo at CMA CGM below which seems to indicate at least a different approach with flexibility and not total dominance in mind.

Now on the shipping front in general, we have something very interesting in store for you today. We first of all speak to a company that is soon to be producing collapsible containers, not that it is a novel idea so to speak, but it seems that this total product and not only the container itself may hit the spot. SPECTAINER, headquartered in Australia and Singapore, is who I am talking about.

After that we visit incredible India – the land of curry and a sizable young population and increasing improvements in infrastructure – so yes, it is timely to go to India. The law firm CALLIDUS gives us their insights and offers you legal solutions and a reasonable cost.

We finally revisit the South of France and speak to CMA CGM and given the current situation of freight forwarders & shipping lines, we republish an interview with the manager of special cargo. In the shipping news, there is also a comment from CEVA (now owned by CMA CGM) distancing themselves from the line – i.e., related to this interview.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Nicholas Press, MD & CEO Spectainer Australia & Singapore was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Spectainer - Singapore

Video Interview: Callidus Legal - Mumbai, India

Joy Thattil, Managing Partner at Callidus Legal was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Stéphane Berninet – Head of CMA CGM Project Cargo Division was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Audio Interview: Stéphane Berninet – Head of CMA CGM Project Cargo Division - Marseille, France

Port of Oskarshamn – COSCO Vessel Tian Jian Discharging Wind Turbine Tower Sections

Editor’s Note:

Paid a visit to the Port of Oskarshamn today in a one day trip driving a total of 685 km to go onboard and witness the arrival on a fantastic day in port, they just don’t come any better. Hardly any wind, pleasant 24c and a bit of skies amongst the blu and then sun rays hitting the ocean. Simply awesome! Special thanks and credit to: COSCO Shipping Sweden, TSA Shipping Agency Sweden & Port of Oskarshamn Authority.

Editor’s Note:

Weather is not always nice, which also goes for shipping, especially during loading or discharging. On a hot day in Grenaa, Denmark it was raining cats and dogs but mv Atlantic Bulker was still loading scrap iron for Chennai. Here is a good shot that I managed to take through my car window.

Wise Words

WEEK 33 – 2022

August 18, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is week 33, and we are here again with the Thursday edition of Project Cargo Weekly.

This time I am going to make my editorial a bit different. In other words, to try to work it “around” the two featured and fresh interviews that I have in store for you today.

Starting off in Germany & Denmark (two countries that are heavily into shipping globally), we first of all speak to a company called RMS Projects headquartered in Hamburg and with a representative office in Korsør, Denmark. You can see for yourself in this interview what these industry stalwarts in shipping have to say for themselves. They surely have the skill and know-how in the breakbulk market, so do listen and learn…

After our online stops in Germany and Denmark, we continue online to Phuket, Thailand. We speak to yet another German native settled on the island who, after a long career with Polysius and ThyssenKrupp, ultimately finds himself working as regional director APAC (Asia Pacific) of dteq Transport Engineering Solutions –an independent branch of the well-renowned Deugro. An interesting story to listen to indeed.

Moving offline…

My week here in Stockholm has been great. The weather has been impeccable, hovering between 22-28 degrees [72-82 degrees F].

Finally (sigh of relief), the start of the school year can be seen coming. In fact, for us, it is today (Thursday). With three kids at home and a holiday that (for them) spans almost two months, I hear of few parents who are not tired and worn out towards the end of that period, wishing for it to end and for their kids to get back into their daily routines. Both me and my dragon (aka wife) work from home. Thus, with kids here too, it does mean that it IS difficult to focus on work – even though ipads and so on can be used as babysitting devices for some of the time.

Make no mistake: for most, two incomes are needed to make ends meet, and it is clear for all to see that fuel, food, and generally all prices are skyrocketing weekly if not daily. Talking to my colleague in the Philippines I hear it is the same story there, not to mention my kids in London and New York where daylight robbery (meaning price increases and horrendous rents) are taking an ever bigger chunk of whatever salary you are getting. I think and hope that our politicians will see the light and try to do their best to remedy things. At least they promise a lot here in Sweden, but naturally with elections now in September, no wonder. Some well-known countries don’t have that kind of problem, with democracy I mean, but on balance, I would rather stay where I am for a proper future without too much corruption and nepotism. As Churchill famously said “Democracy is the worst form of government – except for all the others that have been tried.”

The very latest from the shipping world is that MSC [No. 1 (now) in the world ahead of Maersk] is going into private hospitals. Well if they can go from humble beginnings running 2nd hand ships into operating brandnew tonnage on a worldwide scale, then there is hope for anyone wishing to get good treatment for any illness. However, what that has got to do with shipping I don’t know. Yet, with the world and the lines flush with money, all those profits need to go somewhere, so short of giving it away or eradicating poverty and famine, why not invest in hospitals which, on a private scale, is certainly a lucrative business, too.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Leaving an Island Near the Port of Rijeka in Croatia

Editor’s Note:

Leaving one island near the port of Rijeka in Croatia. This island was famous as a political prison camp during the 1950’s, 1960’s under the rule of TITO. A harsh place indeed although with this video makes it look ideal, but its a stone island basically, with remnants from the prison buildings – so yes history is sometimes best forgotten. Read more about Goli Otok on Wikipedia

Editor’s Note:

Port of Oskarshamn on an incredible day last week with mv Tian Jian of COSCO Shipping alongside –just at the moment when I took this picture. All the way from Phú Mỹ Vietnam to Sweden.

Wise Words

WEEK 34 – 2022

August 25, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 25th of August, and the last issue of this month is here.

Can’t believe where the time has gone, but generally, if you are having a good time and like what you do, well then time does pass quickly. Finally too, the children are now in school, and they seem happy as well to be back in their usual routine. Frankly speaking, the 2 and ½ month summer holidays here in Sweden is simply too long – for the kids at least. Parents look tired and worn out, and so far, I have met no one that wouldn’t like the kids to be in school a few weeks earlier.

When I took a walk today, I listened to a podcast which scared me a bit. It seems that beautification for many teenage girls or even older ladies is a huge business. Treatment with Botox, getting a Brazilian bottom by injecting fat from other parts of the body into the bottom with sometimes disastrous results and subsequent deaths in dubious clinics… I mean, what is going on with some of our youth? Why don’t we teach our children to be proud of who they are, to have self confidence and to stop believing the social media circus and the Kardashian image and instead focus on being themselves? Yes, not really a topic for a shipping newsletter but still, listening to two episodes on Swedish Radio today with a report from such surgery performed in Turkey (this time) really got me thinking, especially since I have 3 daughters of my own. Sometimes we as parents really have NO CLUE what our kids/teenagers are up to, right?

From the market, I heard that finally shipping rates for containers seem to be going down. No longer in the double digits, it is a development that we all have been looking forward to. I think perhaps it is time that owners now focus on actually providing proper customer service and not only an English-speaking person located in Poland, Estonia or India in order to save money when a customer from Scandinavia (for example) is calling.

But here is also the big reason why project and general freight forwarders will be needed: as long as there is no fully-working, one-stop-shop, door-to-door service based on only the resources of ONE shipping line, ul-

timately, shippers will be badly treated if they lay their eggs in only one basket. Therefore, making long-term contracts with one line only is a bit like peeing in the pants: it warms at first but it becomes cold pretty fast.

In PCW’s view, the turn of the tide is just around the corner and healthy competition is coming hopefully back with a vengeance. Having said that, forwarders too, of course, must up their game and stop benchmarking only. (Although I do realise that sometimes customers/shippers following the policy of “asking a minimum of 3 to 6 forwarders” creates this situation.)

In our newsletter today, we have three great interviews in place.

1.TIBA Group in Spain – strong in South America and North Africa

2.TT Club (a well-known insurance company in London) & ICHCA (International Cargo Handling) in a joint interview. Both organisations are highly respectable and although London has many companies talking respectable English, but not always walking the nice talk..☺. I do believe that both of these organisations have a lot of value to provide you with, whether you are owner, shipper, forwarder or just into shipping.

3.Capital Logistics Shanghai, part of the SISAM Group, Italy – we talk to their office in Shanghai, and they tell us what they can do in the Middle Kingdom.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Willy Boers, Corporate Global Network Manager at TIBA was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: TIBA Group - Barcelona, Spain

Video Interview: ICHCA International & TT Club - London, UK

Shanghai Capital Logistic Transport Co., Ltd. – Shanghai, China

Richard Steele, CEO at ICHCA and Mike Yarwood, Managing Director Loss Prevention at TT Club Mutual Insurance were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Mr. Danilo Sergi Alampi General Manager & Director

First of all Danilo can you tell us about the history of Capital Logistic Transport and also a bit about who owns you?

Capital Logistic Transport was founded in 2000 by Sisam, a big Italian group active in freight forwarding, terminal management (the group manages the operation of Trieste Container Terminal in Italy) and as a shipping agency (Sisam is partner and agent of Evergreen Container Lines in Italy and several others in Eastern European countries).

The group has more than 1,000 employees working in 28 offices in Europe and China.

Is your Shanghai office fully-owned or a joint venture? For how long have you been established in China?

The company is a fully-owned foreign invested one. The first office was opened in Hong Kong in 2000, followed by the Shanghai representative office in 2002. In 2006, we decided to close the Chinese representative office and open instead a fully-licensed local company.

What is your main business currently, and how does the current Corona pandemic and subsequent restrictions influence your business?

Looking at our business throughout these last twenty years in China, our activity has diversified a lot. Our main business is still in container shipping, but our teams handle regularly:

•RORO Cargo: On a monthly basis, we ship several electrical vehicles from China to Europe and South-East Asia by sea. We have even shipped a car from China to Italy in 12 days door-to-door by truck (with three drivers involved) to enable our client to participate in an important automotive fair.

•Liquid chemical in Isotanks and flexitanks.

•Project cargo (more later)

•A/F with our own monthly consol from Italy

•Railway cargo to Central Asian countries, especially Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

Our numbers (in terms of volume and revenue) have not been affected negatively by the current pandemic. As a matter of fact, the last three years have been the best for our company. Operation-wise, instead, they have been quite difficult to handle considering the continuous lockdowns, which has affected not only our clients, but also our employees, and the transportation limitations that have been imposed in the entire country here and there.

Have you experience in handling project cargoes in China, and if so, could you elaborate a bit and provide us with a few examples?

The group has always been involved in project cargo, since its foundation in 1985. Therefore, it was a natural decision to set up a team in Shanghai as well. We started the project department here in China in 2010, mostly handling oil and gas equipment to the Black Sea area and paper tissue machinery (Yankee dryers and hoods) into China.

In the following years, we have seen all types of cargo: mining and construction equipment, trafos, wind blades, amusement rides, etc.

In the last eight months, due to the pandemic, we have arranged the relocation of three factories that were leaving China to move their production to other countries: Malaysia, Turkey and Italy. We shipped out reactors, tanks and full production lines.

How many years have you been in China?

More than 16 years and always working for Capital. I moved from Italy to Chongqing (in the middle of China) at the beginning of 2006 and then after a few months, I switched to Shanghai. I’ve been lucky to see the different stages of China’s development: the booming years of 2006 and 2007, the financial crisis, the rebound and the change of paradigm of the last few years.

Despite the pandemic strict regulations and hassle, I’m still fully devoted to the development of our group operations in China.

Do you currently have more offices in China, Asia? Are you currently a member of any international networks?

We have three offices (Hong Kong, Shanghai and Suzhou) in China, and we plan to open a fourth one within the first months of 2023.

In addition, we’re members of:

• CLC project for project cargo;

• PPL for general cargo;

• PBLA for bulk liquid.

How do you foresee the business in the coming 6-9 months if you look into your crystal ball?

I do expect the market to be stable, with minor ups and downs till the Chinese New Year 2023. In the longer term, economic factors (inflation, China slowing down) and geopolitical ones (Russia, Taiwan, availability of semiconductors and rare earth materials) may play a bigger role, and therefore, even my crystal ball does not give a clear picture.

There’s only one solution: keep on grinding.

What is the best way for our readers to get in touch with you?

I can be reached at:

Mobile: +86 13601663904

danilo.sergi@capital-logistic.com.cn

http://www.caplog.org/home/

African Union Agenda 2063

Editor’s Note:

AGENDA 2063 is an interactive presentation made by the African Union. Africa is a fantastic continent and seems to be the place to be now and in the future – if they can get their AU together there is certainly hope. It also will mean a lot for shipping, because is there anywhere else you see growth…? Seems only Africa is left.

Editor’s Note:

From onboard mv Tian Jian of COSCO Shipping in Oskarshamn, a fantastic day and with this close up of a tower section loaded on deck you get an idea of the size of current wind turbine parts being transported around the world.

Wise Words

CLC Projects Network was established on April 1, 2012 and is today owned by three partners; Mr. Bo H. Drewsen, Mr. Cody Abram and Mrs. Heidi Kennedy. The partners, located in Sweden, the Philippines and Austria respectively, have a combined total of over 90 years of experience in project freight forwarding, air & sea, rail, chartering, liner business and surveying. The primary business of the CLC Projects Network is to provide a platform where companies, but more accurately, people, from all walks of freight forwarding and shipping can meet each other, develop contacts, do business with each other and meet regularly at conferences held twice yearly at different locations worldwide.

The CLC Projects network aims to be an efficient network: trustworthy, reliable and with fees that are reasonable. Currently, the network has about 158 members active in more than 130 countries the world over, as well as a group of 23 carefully selected service providers who assist the freight forwarders in finding solutions.

WEEK 35 – 2022

September 1, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 1st of September. I am writing this editorial from Copenhagen where I have stopped for a few hours enroute to pay my parents a visit in Grenaa, Denmark. Father is terminally ill with cancer but is still going as “strong” as can be. Although he is more or less bedridden since November last year, I take all the opportunities I can to enjoy a shot of whisky with him. For him now very small shots, but I, of course, help him out all I can.

We need to spend time with our loved ones when we can whilst at the same time look after ourselves, too. Not always an easy task – juggling logistics both at home and abroad. I have found that having logistics meetings with the wife every morning helps as we need to sort out the day’s activities with 3 kids going in different directions, especially after school: sport, Taekwondo or piano.

This past weekend I had the pleasure of receiving a reciprocal visit by Mr. Marin Skufca, (partner in Liburnia Maritime of Croatia) and his family, and treating them to a trip aboard the Viking Cinderella (as I don’t own a boat and can not boast of the Adriatic Sea). Still it was just what the “doctor ordered” for them. According to what I was told, they had a great time. Stockholm needs no real introduction to its archipelago. Its enough to say that it’s the most accessible, wonderful cruise around, leaving several times daily and with duty-free shopping, 5-star dining and thousands of islands to view. What can be better?

I continue to keep on reading when I can. There are 2 books that I would like to point your direction to. One is the recent book about logistics written by certainly one of the experts in the field, Mr. Marco Poisler, you can find the link here

Another one I am reading currently to take my mind off shipping is “Lucifer’s Banker”. It is well-written by an outspoken American who helped open up the vault of secrets in Swiss banking and UBS, one of the banking giants. You will find it both scary and entertaining at the same time. What is it with you people hiding too

much money – how much is enough, how much you can eat, drink and travel? Anyway, for the vast majority of people, do read this one and find perhaps someone you know by name in there…

Finally, on a happy note before I tell you about the interviews this week that I have chosen to republish, I am (or rather we are) the happy owners of a new SKODA Kodiaq SUV with 7 seats. We have been so happy with the old one, now 3 years, and since second hand car prices are through the roof at the moment, it was prudent to get a new one and pay less in exchange. Interesting to see how Skoda (30 years ago we joked that you could double the value of your car just by filling up the gas tank) has evolved into VW-owned and being one of the best and most sold family cars here. In this video about Skoda people are hardly visible in their modern Czech factory. Although I am not a car buff, still sitting in a new one with a nice leather smell is something!

As mentioned, today I have chosen to republish 3 solid interviews that we had before.

1.MBM LOGISTICS IN DUBAI

2.MARINE CARGO CHARTERING MONACO

3.ABNORMAL LOAD SERVICES UK

I think you will still find all these interviews very interesting and by reading them, you also let me off the hook this week as I have got a few fresh interviews that were delayed for various reasons.

I remind you that we also have shipping news, trade intel, featured photo and video, wise words, and last but not least, DO download our PROJECT CARGO WEEKLY APP here for good measure.

Until next week when I shall be writing to you from Hamburg!

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

MBM Logistics LLC – Dubai U.A.E

Interview with Mr. Haridas Kondath Managing Director

Haridas first off tell us a bit about yourself, your background and how you ended up in shipping & freight forwarding? When did you first arrive in Dubai and how long have you worked there?

I am from Kerala India, I arrived in Dubai in 1993 after being shortlisted by Swift Freight Intl, which was brought over by Barlow World.

I started as a sales executive and was initially handling sales for Clipper Lines, eventually, I went on to do sales for the forwarding division.

I left Swift after a few years and worked as a freight manager in a start-up company called Modernline. I introduced Rohlig to them and together we grew in the market. By the year 2000, we had established a good project and general forwarding based business. Together with Rohlig, I did some of the major projects and charters to and from Dubai.

We handled a full vessel charter of approximately 7000 CBM for Strabag. We also handled many RoRo shipments to Umm Qasser. During that time Emirates Airlines was expanding and we bagged the prestigious contract to move ground handling equipment for them, like pushback tractors, deck loaders, passenger steps, buses etc. from around the world. We moved close to 3000 cbm worth of cargo in breakbulk, roro & containers.

Thereafter Modernline was taken over by Rohlig & I was promoted to the MD for the Middle East region. Furtheron Gebreuderweiss & Rohlig merged to form Weiss Rohlig across the globe. I left them during that time & started as a director of Bluebell Shipping where I spent close to 10 years.

Overall I have been in the freight & logistics business in Dubai for around 24 years.

Tell us about MBM Logistics. When was the company established, who owns the company and what is the main line of business of MBM? I understand that it is customary to have a local U.A.E. company as “sponsor” or back up as a business partner in order to establish yourself in the country. Can you elaborate on that and tell our readers a bit about how the system works in the U.A.E.

MBM was established in 2014 by myself & H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Juma Al Maktoum. Currently, I own 80% of the company. Our intention was to create a company which caters to the Expo 20/20 and the projects that would be expected during that time.

You need a local sponsor, he could be part of the business or just a silent partner where 51% on paper belongs to the local. In our case, H.E owns 20%. He is not involved in any manner in the business.

Which ports are the main ones used in U.A.E. for project cargo generally?

Jebel Ali mostly.

How about the competition in U.A.E.?

U.A.E. is very competitive. I think we have the highest concentration of freight forwarders in the world. Today all global forwarders have an office in U.A.E., we also have many local and small-time forwarders.

Can you provide us with some examples of project shipments that you have handled recently or that you are proud of having handled?

We have moved many projects, as MBM we have handled close to 5000 cbm of mining equipment from Germany & Belgium to GCC.

We are regularly moving AOG shipments by Air. We handle engines for Rolls Royce, Boeing, etc. We are using CLC Projects Network for overseas partners.

We also handle some large crane movements into U.A.E. from Europe.

We have now been awarded Contract from Meydan group to Handle Horses from Within Europe & To/FrEuropeope to Dubai and Back. We are using specialized forwarders who have knowledge in this business.

We are hoping to get some contracts for Expo 2020 and are working on some projects for L&T, however, we are only accepting business with secure financing in place. Hence we are treading cautiously and are not jumping into projects and business haphazardly.

How is the business outlook for Dubai/U.A.E. and how is the general business mood there at the moment? How is the current situation with Qatar?

The market is tight, cash flow is an issue, however, the U.A.E. has great potential and we are hoping that towards the end of 2018 lots of new projects will kick-start, keeping all of us busy and happy. The Qatar issue is in limbo, we hope that gets better in the next few months.

How can our readers get in touch with you?

haridas@mbmlogisticsuae.com

murali@mbmlogisticsuae.com

First, Fulvio, please tell us how you ended up living in Monaco. I believe you are Italian, correct? Could you please elaborate on your career in shipping and how you acquired skills in chartering?

I am indeed Italian, and I spent all my life-based in Italy, in between Savona, my hometown, and Genoa. I have always been travelling a lot, visiting places and meeting people, and most of my activities are based on personal knowledge.

Five years ago, I had an opportunity to move to Monaco, which is a good shipping place, very international which I like. I also enjoy the advantage of being close to Italy, where I still have relatives, and this gave me another important opportunity, i.e. to leave my Italian company, Multi Marine Services in Genoa, to the full management of my son Simone, which gave him the possibility to grow on his own and out of my shadow. It worked well. After all this time, I can say I enjoy working and living here in Monaco, even if not all that shines is gold, and that’s something we must always remember! This move has also given me the chance to meet new contacts and work in a different environment, meeting with different people in the business, and developing my career in shipping.

I started working as a shipping agent with my father when I was just over twenty and after few years, I decided to become a shipbroker, a goal I achieved after working and studying quite a lot. First, I became a member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers in London thanks to my passing the seven exams in three years, whilst I was of course working. Later I obtained the qualification of Fellow of the Institute. I kept working developing

Interview with Mr. Fulvio Carlini Co-Owner

good skills in short sea traffic, with steel and project cargo being my specialities. Eventually, I became the Chairman of the Shipbrokers Committee in FONASBA (www.fonasba.com), the World Federation of Ship Brokers and Agents, which allows me to be in contact with many colleagues and to participate in works with other important associations like BIMCO, where I have a seat in the Documentary Committee.

Who owns Marine Chartering Services and is Monaco a good place for shipping business?

Marine Chartering Services is owned by me and my wife Gabriella, who is a shipbroker as well. The company was created after a few months we moved here. As I said before, Monaco is a good place for shipping business, as it gives a lot of contacts because there are many ship owners based here, which means very good access to the industry. In Monaco, we also have conferences and meetings, which helps facilitate meeting people. Also let us not forget, Monaco is a place that people like and are willing to visit for one or more of the many events happening here.

Tell us about your team and could you share a couple of the success stories that you have had in chartering?

Our team is very small. Gabriella and I have been working all our lives in this business and thanks to the many contacts we have around the world, we have clients almost everywhere. Just to give some examples, we chartered with COSCO one of the first ships that sailed from China to Europe (France specifically) with a big parcel of windmills. We passed via the Arctic route, which shortened the trip by almost a week. We chartered several ships that moved a big windmill plant from northern Finland to Safi, in Morocco. Further, we also moved several TRAFOs around Europe and pieces of machinery from Uruguay to Colombia for a big French Construction group. We are now also pursuing a possible activity connected with the building of the Peninsula in front of Monaco.

Our day-to-day life sees us very busy with the management of Conti Carwil Ltd, a company we own with the Conti7 group from Antwerp, which provides liner services from the Mediterranean, Portugal and Antwerp to Morocco, which is a very important destination country for us.

Are you currently part of any networks or global organisations? If so, why?

As I mentioned before we are BIMCO members, as well as members of the Monaco Chamber of Shipping and, of course, of CLC Projects! It is important to be part of such organisations to be kept updated on rules and regulations, as well as to provide our contributions to their work.

Personal relationships are also paramount for you, I believe. How do you go about getting such relationships?

As I said before, a personal relationship is almost 100% of our business. People don’t choose a shipbroker for economic reasons, after all, we all have almost the same costs as commission which is paid to us by the ship owners, but because people know us. Confidence is the most important factor in our job. Professionalism is basic, people need shipbrokers because they need to have professionals who can to handle their business properly and safely.

Monaco is famous for rich people, James Bond, etc, but is it also a place for ‘normal people’, so to speak? Also, is there a de facto shipping business or community established in Monaco?

Monaco is famous as a place for rich people, first because of its fiscal terms, which allow residents to not pay personal taxes. But to be a resident means to have a place to live, and Monaco is also the most expensive place on Earth for housing costs. This means that for ‘normal people’ as we are, almost all the fiscal advantage we have is eroded by the cost of living, i.e. renting an apartment (to buy is impossible unless you are fabulously rich). There are many people like us in Monaco, which helps to create a shipping community that meet and gather together quite regularly in the Propeller Club, or in a bar in Fontvieille where almost all of us end up quite often at the end of a busy working day.

What do you believe is the strength of Marine Chartering Services?

Our strength is the capacity to look for the right carrier in each specific case, thanks to the huge wealth of experience and the great network of contacts we have been able to build. We are here to serve and to give quick answers to people who are looking for professional Shipbrokers in any kind of dry cargo.

What’s the best way to reach you?

I am contactable via the following:

Office: +377 (87) 074272

Mobile: +33 (6) 40627669

E-mail: f.carlini@marinecharteringservices.com

Website: http://marinecharteringservices.com/

Abnormal Load Services UK International Limited (ALS) – Hull, UK

First, Jillian, can you please tell us who the owners of ALS are? Elaborate a bit on the history of the company and explain to our readers, if you will, what the abbreviation ALS stands for?

ALS stands for Abnormal Load Services.

In March of 2022 Wallenius Wilhelmsen fully acquired ALS. ALS continues to operate under a separate brand under the Wallenius Wilhelmsen group umbrella.

Interview with Mrs. Jillian Peacock Group Marketing Manager

Where is your head office located and, also, do you also have offices located abroad and if so where?

Our HQ is in Hull, UK. We are expanding and are currently in the throes of moving to larger and more modern premises from 1st July 2019.

Our other office locations are Belgium, Finland, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, South Africa and our new office in Sweden, along with a global network of reliable partners and suppliers.

https://abnormal-loads.com/contact-us

Could you provide our readers with some examples of project cargo that you are particularly proud of having handled?

20-month Rail Project – 1,185 rail wagons transported from Poland to Saudi Arabia.

https://abnormal-loads.com/news/als-awarded-contract-as-a-logistics-partner-to-move-1-186-wagons

Energy from waste projects including coordinating loading and offloading operations in Turkey, USA, Poland, Denmark and the UK and a 600T charter from the USA to the UK.

https://abnormal-loads.com/news/exceptional-cargo-expert-als-wins-logistics-contract-for-new-energy-fromwaste-project-in-the-uk

I have noticed that you also provide yacht handling. Can you possibly tell us more?

Our colleagues in Norway provide services to super yacht owners and guests, particularly across the Summer period. ALS’ services include agency services, provisions and purchases, bunker and lube supply, itineraries and yacht transportation.

https://abnormal-loads.com/services/super-yacht

Nowadays, there are stringent demands from several shippers about the way their transport providers go about their business and they want project freight forwarders to sign all kinds of (sometimes very demanding) contracts, taking full responsibility. In your view, has this changed in the last few years and has it perhaps come to a point where demands are too extreme?

I do believe that contracts have become more demanding and more responsibility is placed on project forwarders to ensure accountability.

How do you choose the shipowners with whom you work? Cost is, of course, one thing, but do you also choose them from a range of other parameters?

Cost is certainly a factor, along with availability, reputation, route and timescale.

When did you start your career in freight forwarding and logistics? what made you choose this kind of job?

I started with ALS in 2000 as I wanted to pursue a career combining marketing and languages. I have previously worked in manufacturing and healthcare, both in marketing and customer services positions.

How do you view the project cargo logistics market currently? What do you think is in store? Do you believe that the shipowners will try and outfox the freight forwarders and start doing end-to-end by themselves?

It is very competitive and more and more companies are diversifying into the project cargo sector with limited knowledge. However, I believe that shipowners will still require the support of specialist services and flexibility from project freight forwarders.

How is best to get in touch with you?

Jill Peacock Group Marketing Manager ALS

Address (from 1st July 2019): Building 3, Eltherington Business Park, 1305 Hedon Road, Hull, HU9 5QD, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)1482 796214

Direct: +44 (0)1482 780821

Fax: +44 (0)1482 707650

Mobile: +44 (0) 7738 918821

Email: jillian.peacock@als-europe.com Web: www.abnormal-loads.com

Former Address (until 1st July 2019): 1501 Hedon Road, Kingston Upon Hull, HU9 5NX, United Kingdom

A Wind Turbine Transport by TIBA

Editor’s Note:

TIBA, the Spanish owned project freight forwarding group, was involved in this impressive project between Spain and Japan.

Editor’s Note:

Editors note: A bulker mv Emily Oldendorff in the Swedish port of Oskarshamn proving that if you are innovative enough you can use SOC flatracks and ship them on a bulker, you don’t need to be humble to the container carriers and be at their beck and call…

Wise Words

WEEK 36 – 2022

September 8, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 8th of September, 2022 and we are here at your inbox again.

I am writing this editorial from the great port city of Hamburg. It is one of my favourite places in the world for shipping, eating, relaxing and enjoying.

From Aarhus, Denmark where I boarded the train, it is quite convenient to get to Hamburg. Taking the train at 09:39 am gets you into Hamburg HBf (Central Station) at 02:04 pm.

My parents reminded me that I was only 12 years old (in 1975) when I took the train on my own to visit a friend in Gottingen (a university city near Hannover). Then we discussed if we ever could have imagined in 2022 to send a 12-year-old on his/her own on a train trip like that. Back then there was no mobile phone, but my parents trusted me and had the balls to send out their son on his own changing trains in Hamburg.

Yes, times have changed for the better in many ways, but from a safety perspective and overall feeling of “togetherness”, I think we are more apart now than ever. Not a day goes by in Europe right now when the upcoming energy crisis is not discussed. The Russians claim that repairs on the Nordstream 1 is a reason for the current disruption. We all know that it is just an excuse to put pressure on Europe to ease Europe’s own sanctions in connection with the Russia / Ukraine war.

What do leaders in general (particularly in countries run by totalitarian rulers) care about their own population? If they cared so much, they would not need massive bank accounts in dubious jurisdictions, and they wouldn’t have sent their own children to schools and universities in the UK and the US to live lavish lives. Instead, they would have rid their countries of nepotism, corruption, and they would have developed a fairer distribution of income. They would have ensured that inequality would be eradicated as much as possible.

I have also spoken to a few Chinese friends, asking their opinions about the Taiwan / US intermezzo with

visiting politicians from the US “supporting” Taiwan. The common claim from my Chinese friends was that the US is all about selling more arms. Right or wrong, there is no doubt that the weapons industry is huge and that it has enormous clout in politics whether the system is totalitarian or more democratic (meaning that we can in fact vote for different rulers).

One instance comes to mind as I was chatting with my father last night enjoying yet another Tullamore Dew (spending as much time as I can with him as his health is faltering). He told me about an incident years ago when he was captain on a ship loading ammo in Spain for the Iran side of the Iran Iraq war. Behind him was a larger, Greek vessel loading ammo as well but for an Iraqi port. BOTH ships were loading on behalf of the same SWISS trader! It seems to me that if we open up these bank accounts completely and get a truly transparent system in place (particularly in Switzerland, UK, and UK territories), we could see the truth more clearly in what seems to be a murky world of business, politics and greed – all mixed up in a dangerous cocktail. I suppose there’s nothing new in all of that and the only constant factor remains: normal people pay the bill, as always!

Today, we have got only one interview in store for you. It is with an actual BCO (Beneficial Cargo Owner). It is one of the major project cargo shippers in Scandinavia called VALMET. They make tissue machines, and you will see a very interesting comment from the interviewee that once you have started to use tissue paper, you won’t ever stop – so they indeed have got their market segment right ☺.

This is the first time PCW has actually interviewed a shipper directly, and if this pans out well, we will continue with this, having a mix of shippers, freight forwarders, shipowners, surveyors and so on… all of whom are in the same boat when it comes to shipping and project cargo transportation.

There is (or rather should be) room for everybody. Yet, trying to corner the market using massive profits mainly derived due to the pandemic freight rates and not because of clever business models etc. should also worry those who are in favour of the free market. Shippers and forwarders alike book at their own peril with shipowners who want to control, buy and exert influence on it all. Once these shipowners are asked to pay reasonable taxes on their income, they immediately send out the well-groomed bean counters to speak to the media about the “unfairness”.

The entrepreneurs who started the businesses originally are different from bean counters although both are needed. Someone must have ideas, skill, and persistence to start up something before you can make the EXCEL spreadsheet… if you understand what I mean.

See this short video I shot showing a close-up look at what it looks like to transport the Yankee cylinders

We, of course, finish with shipping news, trade intel, featured video, photo and wise words.

We would like to remind you already that due to excessive travel in Asia & Australia in October, Project Cargo Weekly will take a well deserved “jetlag and business break” during weeks 41-42. In other words from the 13th to the 20th of October, 2022. Don’t forget to meet Project Cargo Weekly at our booth A2 at AntwerpXL 5-7 October. Also be reminded to download our APP so that you “never walk alone” as the theme from Liverpool FC goes…

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Valmet (Tissue Machinery Unit) – Karlstad, Sweden

Interview with Mr. Peter Berggren General Manager, Logistics

First and foremost Peter, please tell our readers about your career leading up to your current position at Valmet?

My logistics career started in 2007 picking video and computer games at a warehouse on an hourly basis. After about 4 months, I got permanent employment at the company and started to work more with shipping, export, import and customs processes. I remember that I loved the shipping part and quickly became a big nerd about everything connected with global transportation.

After about 4 years, I became the logistics manager. That promotion was, of course, flattering, but also quite scary at the same time. Suddenly you are the manager of your friends and colleagues. Anyhow, it was really fun and satisfying to be able to put into practice my own ideas about how to make us more effective and make good results for the logistics process at the company.

After nearly 2 years in this position, I felt that I was missing the shipping part more and more; I was ready for a new challenge. I noticed that Valmet was looking for a project forwarder. There are not so many companies in Karlstad with a straight-out shipping department, so without any regrets, I applied and got the job.

This was really exciting and also something different from shipping video games in boxes and on pallets, but anyhow the basics of transportation is the same even though the size of packages changes. I remember that I became an even bigger shipping nerd and enjoyed everything about working in a big global company like Valmet.

After about 1.5 years, my manager got a new job internally and with my background as a logistics manager, I was asked to apply for the now open managerial position. At first I felt: “Why? I enjoy my work. I still have a lot to learn.” Yet, once again, of course, I was flattered, and I applied.

In mid-December 2014, I became the logistics manager at Valmet Tissue Machinery Unit. That decision to become logistics manager at Valmet was the best decision in my career. I have developed myself personally big time and enjoy being a leader working with people. I have everything that I enjoy and appreciate today. It’s often challenging and really hard work in logistics and transportation, but also so much fun. You also get a lot of quick satisfaction and positive feedback when you manage to solve logistics challenges. That feeling is great and important. And last but not least, I have a world-class team of colleagues all over the world.

The product that you make at your Karlstad unit involves some very heavy and expensive pieces right? What can you tell us about a typical export project and what it involves in terms of volume/weight etc.?

We make tissue machines. An average project (depending on type of machine) is about 150 shipping units (40’OT containers or 13.6m trailers) and about 10-20% of the scope is considered high and/or heavy. The biggest piece is our Yankee dryer which is a Rotating Pressure Vessel to dry the tissue in the paper making process. The Yankee weight depends, of course, on the size of the machine, but it can be up to 7m in diameter and weighing in at 170-200mt.

Do you generally sell on FCA or CIF terms? In the case of CIF terms do you check the market for the best rates and solutions or do you for certain markets use the “same” forwarders? Do you sometimes book directly with the shipowners?

Normally, our selling price includes freight. We have many project forwarders to choose from who have signed Valmet’s frame agreement. We invite 3-6 freight forwarders into the RFQ, depending on the terms of delivery and how big the scope is. We have also worked directly with shipping lines and have had both good and bad experiences with that. Normally, shipowners don’t want to sign our frame agreement as is, which is

of importance to work with us, because we do not wish to give special care or benefits to anyone in an RFQ. Everyone shall be quoting on the same base and terms and conditions in order to be fair.

In your view, how do you feel about the experience of the project freight forwarders you deal with? Have they developed over the years, and have they, shall we say, become “better” or “worse”?

Hard to say better or worse — it’s a people business from my point of view.

My opinion is that no forwarding company is better than the people who work there. It’s like a restaurant— it can look fancy from the outside and inside, but the food is still not better than the chefs inside the kitchen. For me, it is all about trusting the persons we work with. As an example, I don’t find trust in a forwarder saying that delivering a Yankee dryer is easy and/or that they see no bigger issues because my company and I have delivered heavy items before. That approach makes me wonder if they have done their homework and walked the extra mile for us. Experience is, of course, important, but to make a heavy haul successful, you need to be able to have good local connections for the on-carriage and maintain a professional attitude and approach to authorities, be on the tips of your toes, be in front of (on top of) everything.

The Covid-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc with supply chains all over the world. How has this pandemic impacted you at Valmet Karlstad?

We have managed to deliver our projects and also managed to win new projects during the pandemic. Customer meetings on Teams works too, and in some cases, it is more effective. These have, of course, been extremely challenging times, and the costs we cargo owners are still paying in order to keep our promises and time schedules to our customers is outrageous. During these circumstances though, we have been forced to think outside the box in the supply chain, so there have also been some new lessons learned and other good developments that we could benefit from onwards.

Valmet is a big group in paper- and tissue-making machinery worldwide. How many employees are there in the company globally and in your unit locally? Being part of a bigger group, does it also mean that you coordinate the purchase of shipping space with each other?

Globally, there are 17,000employees. In the Tissue Unit, Karlstad there are 430. All in all at the Valmet, Karlstad location there are about 700 employees.

We have, of course, global nominations for standard cargo. For project cargo we try to combine some RFQ’s if we happen to have other Valmet units delivering projects to the same destination within a reasonable time frame. The main issues are the costs for transportation and the reliability of lead-time. Also, I feel a bit tougher approach from authorities to get transportation permits for heavy pieces in the last few years in some countries at least. Handling time has increased, and we receive more costly demands before we can receive the permit for transportation.

What are the main problems that you face from a logistics standpoint nowadays?

Looking into your crystal ball, how do you see the market for Valmet Tissue in the medium and long term?

There is a constant need for tissue. No one who has started using toilet paper wants to be without it. But it is increasingly difficult to look into the crystal ball given the current circumstances with pandemics, war and inflation.

Departing Port Botany / Sydney onboard CMA CGM Georgia

Headed for Melbourne

Editor’s Note:

Here is some footage showing the departure from Port Botany/Sydney onboard CMA CGM Georgia with final destination Melbourne. What can beat being onboard a cargo ship in this kind of weather? The answer is nothing (at least for me).

Editor’s Note:

Whilst onboard mv CMA CGM Georgia from Singapore to Melbourne where I disembarked (preCOVID) I took this shot of the Melbourne skyline. Happy to visit the “lucky country” in October again when my schedule includes Perth, Sydney and Lord Howe Island.

Wise Words

Cross Ocean is a network belonging to the CLC Projects group. The network was established on April 1, 2018 and has currently around 104 members in 82 countries around the world. Cross Ocean also provides trips around the world enabling anyone to buy a ticket and travel, mainly by commercial container ships. The Cross Ocean Network supports their members with sales leads, trade intelligence and general help for members to interact and find the right connections worldwide. Cross Ocean is a project cargo network that is young, strong and up and coming, and it has grown tremendously since its inception in 2018. As part of the CLC Projects group, the total strength of being part of the Cross Ocean network should not be underestimated.

We invite you to contact us for further information and to join our expanding project freight forwarding network now!

WEEK 37 – 2022

September 15, 2022

Dear Readers,

Today is Thursday, and you all know what that means: PCW is back in town.

I was in Hamburg last week as you can see from last week’s PCW, and I returned by flight from Hamburg direct to Stockholm. Traveling in Europe according to a schedule is mostly a hassle nowadays. Many flights are delayed. Security check lines are very very long and you are advised generally to be at the airport 3 hours in advance. For me, besides being at the airport 3 hrs in advance, the flight of 1hr40min was also 2 hours delayed, so it added up to some 7 hrs to get from Hamburg to Stockholm. I could have flown to Dubai in that time – so thankful for the family understanding the situation that schedules are “up in the air”.

I had a fantastic trip in Hamburg though, even though it was only a couple of days. Most of all I enjoyed the port tour of Hamburg where I had chartered a small passenger vessel to take me up close to many of the vessels in port. Enjoy the pictures here

Project Cargo Weekly will be present at Breakbulk Americas in Houston during the 27-29 of September. My colleague, Mr. Cody Abram will be there. He can be found at the Atlas Heavy booth (No. M42). So do try to meet up with him and have a chat. If you like, you can schedule an interview with him. We are open to interviewing anyone, whether in writing or by video, and we serve no one’s particular agenda. You may email Cody for a specific appointment if you like at: cody.abram@projectcargo-weekly.com. Cody also represents the CLC Projects Group, of which PCW is an integral part.

My next trip will happen during Oct 4-7 when I shall be present at our own Project Cargo Weekly booth (No. A2) at AntwerpXL, and it seems to be the place to be. Antwerp used to be the home of proper breakbulk expos and I, for one, am very pleased to be back, not least because of the excellent food, wine and beer available in Belgium at all times. See the latest press release from AntwerpXL here.

After that, I shall visit Asia from October 14-31 which means Thailand/Malaysia/Australia and Qatar on the return., of course subject to change… AGW and WP as the shipping terms go.

Generally on a shipping note, I should add that during the past week, some interesting news has come to light, mainly about the danger of placing all your cargoes with the so-called one stop shop companies, especially if they are shipowners with only their own tonnage to offer. If you notice our shipping news today (see items 1 and 2), there are now some claims in which some owners promising space and long-term rates, etc. are NOT able to live up to their promises. Similarly, you have other owners who seemingly are thinking that rates can just be increased without any regard to the consequences due to the supply chain trouble worldwide and the post pandemic bottlenecks. However, PCW would advise many owners now to reduce their greed in a timely fashion because the tide is turning, and soon you will need ALL the customers you can get as the trade slows and inflation, energy problems, etc. take hold for real.

The role of the freight forwarder is particularly important here because it is they who know the market and the alternatives out there. By the same token, PCW would also like to remind forwarders alike not to endlessly benchmark rates. Instead, try to build a plate of reliable alternatives, so that you have a traffic light system –red, yellow, green on the choice of carrier that you present to your shipper. Tell your shipper upfront because if you stand together, you ARE unbeatable.

On the political front, I participated in an election here in Sweden on Sunday. For all the “faults” of a democracy, it is still the best system out there, and I am proud to be living in such a country here in Europe. That the left wing media doesn’t like the outcome is of course normal as they are generally politically correct but with little knowledge of actual problems on the ground. So be it. Part of a democracy is that we have a free and open media, and we respect opposite opinions. If you want positive news all the time, read publications from certain countries (you know who and where) no problems there at all!

In our interview list today, we have some quite interesting ones in store.

1.Starting in my native country of Denmark, we speak to the well-renowned company, LEMAN, whose headquarters are in Copenhagen and has an international presence.

2.We then visit a most beautiful but also troubled country currently, i.e., SOUTH AFRICA, and we speak to REDCON PROJECTS in Johannesburg who also are strong into Botswana and other places via South Africa.

3.Finally, we re-publish an interesting interview with a Dutch company but with business in Ghana. With the development of Africa and with West Africa being an important part of that continent, it is interesting to revisit this chat.

We finish off with shipping news, trade intelligence, a featured video, a featured photo and wise words.

Wishing you all well and until next week we remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Video Interview: LEMAN – Copenhagen, Denmark

Video Interview: Redcon Projects – Johannesburg, South Africa

Niels Bierbum, Project Manager Special Solutions and Bo Henrik Jepsen, Group COO Air & Sea at LEMAN Copenhagen, Denmark were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Martine Hassen, CEO and Pamela Yerushalmy, Commercial Manager at Redcon Projects Pty Ltd., Johannesburg, South Africa were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Mr. Bas de Vaal Managing director

Tell me about how you actually ended up in Ghana? You seem to have chosen shipping and freight forwarding at a young age, why was that? Who owns Portside and where is it headquartered? What activities is Portside involved in?

My shipping career started in Lagos, Nigeria where I grew up, from only a 2 months old baby until 8 years old, my father often took me to the vessels in Apapa port. Then I decided that I also wanted to be part of the shipping community. After living in South America and Switzerland I started studying logistics in Rotterdam and then moved to Antwerp for my Master’s Degree where I joined Seatrade Reefer chartering operating a fleet of fruit carriers.

After 5 years there at the age of 29, my family helped me start Portside together with close friends. We chose to make Ghana our base as it is more business-friendly than Nigeria. Ghana is also known as West Africa for beginners!

Ports Marine Ltd – part of the Portside Group of Companies Rotterdam, Netherlands

Interview with

Ports Marine Ltd is part of the Portside Group of Companies, with headquarters in Leiden the Netherlands, our companies here in Ghana are:

•Ports Marine: the ship agent/freight forwarder

•Multipurpose Terminals Ghana Ltd.: operating a container depot and warehouse in the port of Tema

•We also operate a fleet of trucks mainly to move containers

Tell us about Ghana, I know from many forwarders that it has been difficult to find a reliable freight forwarder there. What makes you different and what are the obstacles generally for working in Ghana?

The freight forwarding market is very competitive in Ghana, however as every other country there are some operating here to only achieve personal gain, and there is still the perception that Ghana is not a safe place. However, my experience is that you can walk freely over the streets of Accra. Last but not least everyone smiles here, even though there is still a lot of poverty. So it is safe to send your cargoes to Ghana, the country is ranked among the top growers of Africa for 2018 with a predicted growth of 9%.

Obviously, there are challenges in the port, the average time to clear customs is 5 working days, and the process is not all automated as we know it in Ghana. The government is working on a project to enable paperless clearing. The port of Tema and Takoradi are operated by GPHA, a state-owned company. The container terminal is operated by a consortium of Bollore, APMT, and GPHA.

They are currently building a new port which should be operational in 2020.

Roads around Tema and Accra are okay, however, it is very busy on the road so trucks can get stuck into traffic jams easily. The more you go inland the road network is not as good. However, the main road to Burkina Faso

is excellent and can be used for transit cargo.

Our main challenges remain the authorities, there is a lot of red tape and documents can delay shipments. We always have to be on top of this to avoid delays. Also, we have to double check quality of trucks, as some are not in a good state or are not insured, so due diligence is of key importance.

Last but also the most important thing is to keep our customers updated of movements of cargo in the port. This usually takes away the scare of Ghana when you know what is going on.

Do you act as shipping agent, freight forwarder, and inland transporter in Ghana or do you specialize in one segment only?

We are line agents for the ro/ro carrier called NMT shipping, they operate a line from Antwerp to Tema, and we, therefore, handle lots of cars, trucks and heavy machinery for the mining sector. Also, we are agents for Breadbox Shipping lines in Tema, they operate liner services on the West African coast. Breadbox also operates a joint service with Intermarine and we handle these vessels from time to time. Especially on the Intermarine vessels, we have seen some very heavy cargoes. The port does not have any heavy lift cranes, so we recommend that vessels calling Ghana are geared.

We have also chartered vessels, to move explosives from Ghana to Liberia for a goldmine. That was a very hectic project, as we were always on the clock to get the products on time to avoid a shutdown of the mine.

It was actually you that inspired me when you were still with Martin Bencher to become more active in the freight forwarding market. So thanks for that.

We have also recently built a washing station for ISO tanks, together with Van den Bosch (the first in West Africa). We have therefore shipped out commodities like shea butter, cocoa butter, and palm oil. Which brings me to the export market in Ghana. Ghana exports Cocoa, minerals (Bauxite, Manganese ore), Gold and oil. Also commodities like sheanuts, cashews, sesame, palm oil and fruit.

modity market. We have also moved machines for the power industry, there has been a shortage of power in

Tell us about the main ports of Ghana and the main import/export commodities of the country. What shipping lines would you say are more active and competent in the Ghana trade if we look at aa/breakbulk cargo and bb/ containerized cargo?

Breadbox, Licvem, and UAL are strong in Ghana, and the main carriers call Tema port. Takoradi is the port for the oil sector and mining projects, and also where they export the minerals.

Is customs clearance normally done in the port or can it be done at final destination as well?

Customs clearance is always done at the port unless it is going with a bond to a bonded area.

Do you belong to any freight forwarding networks currently?

I am a member of CLC Projects, no other network.

Interviewee:

Bas de Vaal

Managing Director

bas@portside.ch

Portside Ghana

http://portside.ch/

mv ONE Crane – Alongside the CTA Container Terminal in Hamburg

Editor’s Note:

ONE Crane which is a very special name for a giant container vessel without cranes….still here you find some wonderful footage of the magenta coloured vessel alongside the CTA container terminal in Hamburg, Germany. Pretty fantastic to sail this close up….The shipowner ONE (comprised of NYK/ KLINE/MOL) is also known to be freight forwarder friendly!

Editor’s Note:

Size does matter at least my ex-wife told me so… and here you get it. MV HMM Hamburg alongside in Burchardkai, Port of Hamburg a giant of 24,000 TEU, it is practically brand new and very impressive up close.

Wise Words

WEEK 38 – 2022

September 22, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is week 38, Thursday the 22nd of September, and PCW is back again.

I decided against flying to the US to meet my son in New York and attend breakbulk in Houston this week. Instead, I re-routed myself, flying to Denmark. Father is still hanging on, and thus better that I try to spend as much time with him as I can before he takes his final voyage. We have, in fact, said goodbye already, and we are clear with each other about the facts of life & death. I do appreciate my parents immensely for never being afraid to discuss things like that with me. A wise man once said that the only certain thing in life is death and taxes. About taxes I am not so sure as many jurisdictions around the world offer just that –NO taxes, but death for sure is coming to us all.

To enjoy even to this day a small whisky on the rocks with my father for as long and as many times as is possible is a blessing. That time will never return, but breakbulk Houston will return next year! Luckily, my American partner, Mr. Cody Abram is taking my place as mentioned last week, and you can find him at booth M42 (Atlas Heavy), so do try to reach him there.

Last week, I visited the port of Härnösand, North Sweden, where a smaller MPP vessel arrived with tower sections. It took me some 5 hrs to drive there. I spent 2 hrs in port, and then I drove back again.

Here are a few pictures from Härnösand which is located on the Swedish “high coast” and here is a short video of the arrival.

I am very pleased to have an arrangement with the well renowned shipping agent TSA (tsaagency.se) here in Sweden, enabling me to pay a visit to ports around Sweden and Finland whenever suitable ships/project cargoes are arriving. This was particularly relevant during the COVID-19 days. I saw more of Sweden in those 2 years than in the last 30, and what better than to drive with a purpose.

Inequality is a major problem in the world. More and more people can not pay their bills even though they are working. During my recent port tour in Hamburg, I noticed one of the oligarch yachts impounded in the shipyard due to the war in Ukraine. Selling that or using it as a refugee home could be a solution–talk about 5-star accommodation! Here is a picture of the yacht.

Talking about inequality around the world, it seems that the 1% who own as much as the 90% have found a new way to invest their millions. Take a look at this interesting video from New York City about billionaires row – pretty amazing really. Now turning to what we have got in store for you today, kindly note:

1.Interview with NAVI MERCHANTS and a person that actually was one of the first trainees we employed when starting Martin Bencher Group 1997! He has come far as have many others that have been through the Martin Bencher learning “station” in the last (now final) 25 years.

2.We remind you about KWH LOGISTICS Finland an interview we had recently, also a very strong group in Finland involved in shipping agency, terminals etc etc and more over they have their big anniversary taking place in Helsinki on October 5th this year as they celebrate being in business for more than 140 years!!

3.We remind you about an interview we had with ACCESS WORLD in Singapore, very strong in the mining industry and related logistics. Also well worth watching or listening to again.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Morten Peder Jensen, Team Leader at Navi Merchants part of Copenhagen Merchants, Denmark was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Navi Merchants - Barcelona, Spain

Video Interview: KWH Logistics - Vaasa, Finland

Video Interview: Access World – Projects - Singapore

Joakim Laxåback, Head of Division KWH Logistics, CEO Oy Backman-Trummer Ab was interviewed by Bo H.Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Mr. Corne du Toit, Project Forwarding & Freight Commercial Manager at Access World – Singapore was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

A View of Hamburg from the River Elbe Onboard a Harbour Cruise

Editor’s Note:

The world class port city of Hamburg, Germany as seen from the River Elbe here in this short footage taken during a recent port tour. What a place!

Editor’s Note:

The area where I live here in Stockholm, Sweden also has downtown shipping, so-to-speak. It is most enjoyable and even 10-15 minutes on the water makes you feel relaxed, and with only a 20 minute walk to the Viking Line ferry terminal for the giant luxury ferries going to Finland, what is there not to like?

Wise Words

WEEK 40 – 2022

October 6, 2022

Dear Readers,

With my best regards on this Thursday the 6th of October I am writing to you on the final day of the AntwerpXL expo.

Although not the biggest breakbulk expo out there, coming back to the city of Antwerp with friendly people, wonderful food and wine it has been overall a great and high quality experience. I am sure that AntwerpXL has made its mark again after the Corona times and is slated to return, November 2023. So do get your bookings in there early. I arrived in Antwerp on 4th October and joined a port tour where the highlight was visiting both the Wijngaard Natie terminal (www.wijngaardnatie.com), (pic: w.vanbeirendonck@wijngaardnatie.be) and we also visited the Deufol terminal where seaworthy packing to worldwide destinations is their bread and butter AND they are good at it. Here are a few pictures from our booth and also the port tour day.

As you know, I skipped out on Houston as my colleague Cody was going there and instead I spent a week with my parents in Grenaa, Denmark enjoying every day as you no doubt could find from my LinkedIn postings. Lots to talk about these days on the political side here in Europe and with the abhorrent and apparent sabotage of the Nordstream pipelines it may seem that Europe is in for a rough and cold winter. Besides that, interest rates are going up and costs are skyrocketing, and even though you work hard and sometimes even keep 2 jobs it can be difficult to make ends meet. Now no-doubt there are many in each generation that have gotten used to low interest rates when taking out a mortgage, but surely if economics is not taught early in school that what goes down can go up and vice versa, then its about time – it is NOT enough to talk about sustainability if you cannot afford it as much as its stupid to talk about the cost of having a Ferrari because if you ask that, then NO you cannot afford it. I am sure you know what I mean. My parents always taught me to earn what I spend but never spend what I earn! which I have kind of inherited from them and now try to teach all of my kids in the same way.

Mobilisation is now underway in Russia and it seems that a kind of exodus is taking place with men in the

military age trying to get out before the borders are sealed up – pretty awful scenes and a reminder that a new iron curtain is being lowered from the Great Empire to the rest of Europe and long are the days since we saw German Chancellor Schroeder and Putin hug each other at the opening of Nordstream 1. Living in Sweden, a country that for decades has been neutral, will soon be joining NATO with Finland alone due to the fact of Putin’s Ukrainian invasion, suddenly makes one realise that you need all the friends you can get and WHO will come to your aid really when the shit hits the fan? What’s worse in Sweden’s case in particular is that there is NO excuse for being unable or too gullable and naive to defend themselves against exterior as well as interior enemies – but perhaps it is not too late to learn. It is not that some people in Sweden have no shooting practice, in case being attacked…. we are currently no. 1 in Europe concerning shootings and gang violence, a tribute to a policy that for years has been just that, gullible, naive and blue-eyed. A fantastic country to live in and with chances for everyone. Why must the “still” minority dictate the daily lives of the majority is beyond understanding, it goes for many situations including that of the country to the east that I just referred to.

Right, on the eve of this Thursday and before I take yet another 2 week break with Project Cargo Weekly because of my travel to Thailand, Australia, Malaysia and Qatar I wish to direct your attention to an excellent array of new video interviews we have in this weeks edition.

1.The country of Jordan, a country that I regrettably never visited is interviewed and we start off with talking to Gargour Shipping, headquartered in Amman with a branch in Aqaba, a port that truly is developing.

2.The Swedish Port of Umeå, located in the North of the Baltic and a hub for timber, project cargoes, paper/ pulp including machines, we talk with as well

3. FREJA one of the mythical names of the Nordic gods (I think it was) is interviewed and with offices in China and Denmark and trucks Europe-wide they are capable in many areas.

I do hope you will enjoy this newsletter. In fact I received a comment or several today at AntwerpXL that they liked the newsletter, especially the editorial. I also, although seldom, receive messages that they want to avoid receiving this spam, or simply that they are not interested. Can’t please all, of course, but I mostly meet people who appreciate a bit of the personal touch in the newsletter, so if it ain’t broke I won’t fix it…

Our featured video of the week can be seen here:

Editors note: PCW is among one of the many publications supporting the AntwerpXL event as it has indeed been a resounding success to get back to the home of breakbulk, Antwerp, and we will see you again 18-20 November, 2023 for sure!

Our featured photo of the week can be seen here:

Editors note: Project Cargo can apparently, also on a smaller scale, be moved everywhere and here seen live at the floor of the main expo building at AntwerpXL where delivery of blades for the renewable industry is taking place ☺.

See you again (virtually) on the 27th of October when I shall be writing to you from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, East Malaysia.

Until then, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Mohammad Hammoudeh & AbdulRahman Taleb Ali of Gargour Shipping Company were interviewed by Bo H.Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Gargour Shipping Company – Aqaba, Jordan

Video Interview: Port of Umeå – Sweden

Video Interview: Freja Group – Aarhus, Denmark

Patrick Mattsson, Site Manager, Kvarken Ports Umeå, Sweden and Christer Nederstedt, Sales & Marketing Manager, Kvarken Ports, Umeå, Sweden were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at PCW.

Hongyi Niu, Director Global Forwarding at Freja Denmark was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Wise Words

WEEK 43 – 2022

October 27, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 27th of October, and I am writing to you from Lord Howe Island. It was a long trip to get here. First via Phuket to attend the Global Conference for CLC Projects & Cross Ocean Networks, see the following group photo from the event.

Then via Singapore I flew down to Perth for a couple of days. I also visited Fremantle where, on my arrival, an OOCL container vessel arrived (see video here). So how is that for timing?

Finally, I went via Sydney on another red-eye flight then to Lord Howe Island, NSW which is in the Pacific, some 600 km east of Sydney in the Tasman Sea. A beautiful place where I intended to rest up for 2 days but due to stormy weather am confined like a convict for almost a week now. Hopefully Qantas can land soon… some pretty cool pictures here from the island.

But after this long trip –including 2 red-eye flights, jet lag and dozens of meetings– I also must admit that I am pretty beat, and it will take a while before I do such a monster trip again. Age is for sure creeping up, and I need my beauty sleep nowadays.

On the plus side, I certainly added a lot to my memory bank which is pretty full now. Soon it is time for real to turn to focusing on the family and children at home that needs a father’s attention. In that regard, it is time for me to let the Zoom and Teams apps of the world work for me, enabling me to stay more at home. Still, it is difficult sometimes to find the right balance, isn’t it? Particularly when you are in networking, you cannot run the world remotely…

The flights I took were in the back of the plane. All the flights were full, and check-in, security, immigration etc. all take longer nowadays, or so it seems. Still, all good and looking forward to landing in Stockholm which, weather permitting, will happen on October 31st.

I have been a bit out of touch with the world news, so I don’t have any political comments to make right now. Yet, I can see that the world is still a bit out of joint with the war in Ukraine and my country of residence, Sweden about to join NATO together with Finland.

The conversations down here in Australia do not focus so much on Europe. Here they are more into talking about China and its influence on Australian business and so on, and how to counter their influence. I suppose no one can or should stop China’s rise, but we can hope that they and the millions of nice people who live there, including my own family, will be able to live in a tolerant society now and also in the future; a society that seeks cooperation instead of confrontation. Impressive by any means though is how China has taken millions out of poverty in the last 30-40 years. Compared to Russia, that is quite a striking difference.

Who says that our system of politics is better and who are we to tell people how to live? It does seem to be that people are now worse off in Libya, Syria, and Afghanistan where the West tried to intervene and failed. Anyway, we shall see what the future brings.

So without further ado, we turn to our interviews for this week. They were recorded a couple of weeks ago because I had to take a break from PCW due to traveling. We have the following in store:

1. Esgian is a Norwegian-based company that provides emissions analytics for shipping which are a requirement nowadays from many shippers as they increasingly go green. They also have innovative commercial analysis tools for RoRo covering 750+ RoRo ships, 600 ports and 80,000 port pairs.

2. Eli Logistix in Monterey, Mexico tells us about trucking to/from the US and Mexico.

3. Strategio Consulting in Lisbon, Portugal is interesting and our interviewee has extensive knowhow of the former Portuguese colony of Mozambique among others.

We of course provide you with shipping news, trade intel, featured video and photo and wise words.

Wishing you all the best and until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Video Interview: Esgian – Oslo, Norway

Stian Omli, Vice President, Shipping at Esgian – Oslo, Norway was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Eli Logistix – Monterey, Mexico

Video Interview: Strategio Consulting – Lisbon, Portugal

Alfonso Torres, Director/Partner at Eli Logistix, Monterey, Mexico was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Pedro Monjardino, Managing Director at Strategio Consulting, Portugal was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

A Visit to Lord Howe Island – October 2022

Editor’s Note:

Once in a lifetime paying a visit to the remote Lord Howe Island, off the coast of Australia. Pretty amazing place indeed…. Not much shipping here but still amazing and believe they got a ship coming once a month from Port Macquarie with supplies…

Editor’s Note:

Nice feeling to have made the footsteps as the only one…at least in the morning and on top of that on a remote island called Lord Howe which is a beautiful place to be indeed – but now stuck due to weather as Qantas cannot land, thus cannot depart…

Wise Words

WEEK 44 – 2022

November 3, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 3rd of November and we are here again. With less than 2 months to the new year of 2023 I am again amazed by how quickly the time passes and I am sure that most of you feel the same.

As we get older time is more fleeting, so what is important in life is to do something that you would like to do while you still have the time, health and opportunity to do so. Having said that it leads me to once again share a little about my recent trip to Lord Howe Island which is around two hours off the coast of Sydney by air. Although I was delayed 5 days due to stormy weather and inability to land in the small airport (see video here) it was the most pleasant paradise island that I had ever visited.

Due to the delay I had to cancel my plans to visit Kota Kinabalu, instead flying Sydney to Stockholm via Qatar. I arrived 1pm on the 30th after some 23 hrs of flying, 12 hrs of waiting in airports and 9 hours of time difference – pretty knackered to say the least, but happy. When the skies cleared the morning of my departure it was worth all the worrying during the stormy days. I have never been in a place with such horrific stormy, windy and thundery weather and knowing that there is no way in or out of the island, it makes you realize just how “small” you really are. After the storm comes the sun, see the featured video below from the morning of 29/10 before leaving for the airport.

Then to top it all off departing the island our plane passed over the small freighter ISLAND TRADER coming to the island with supplies out of Port Macquarie. View the departure video here, the vessel is visible at the end of the video.

So when talking about the ONE, Lord Howe Island is the one, but ONE is also the name of a reputable and freight forwarder friendly Japanese shipowner group with worldwide services. We recently had a nice interview with them and you can find here what they told us. Do contact them if & when you need rates for both

Now back in Stockholm and trying to get back to some kind of normalcy. Autumn has taken a full hold whilst I was away and to be greeted by lovely kids when arriving and even a kind wife who was happy (I think) to have the husband back makes the trip worthwhile. Of course I brought the necessary bribes along in the shape of various presents etc., so it was a kind of XMAS eve last Saturday after I landed. Two hours after my arrival I did fall into a deep sleep and didn’t surface until Sunday noon time – but I did have luck when traveling back with Qatar Airways because on both sectors SYD/DOH and DOH/ARN there was no-one in the middle seat. On the first sector my seat-mate was an Indian gentleman who just had disembarked “Ovation of the Seas” in Sydney after 6 months of work onboard and he was now going home to his family. Big smile on his face and my seat-mate on the 2nd sector was a Finnish lady who had been to a yoga or meditation / rejuvenation course in Cochin, India. She looked relaxed and happy too! I always make a point of meeting people that I travel “together” with, it helps on the trip, you learn about other people, and you find that most are indeed friendly, relaxed and just wanting what most of us want, a good and happy life during the time that we are here.

My next trips coming up are to Gothenburg, Copenhagen and Grenaa where my parents are. My father is still with us after a year of being diagnosed as terminal which means that I have a chance to meet him again and have yet another whisky on the rocks and talk about old times, now I can add my travel venture to Fremantle and Lord Howe to what we will talk about. Then I am off to Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Malta which concludes my travel for 2022 and empties the corona backlog 100%. The Middle East based airlines do seem to have found both the right service mode for travelers while offering a great “transshipment” hub in both Doha and Dubai respectively. If only more airlines could come up with similar ideas and service – “we” are really behind on service when speaking of most western airlines but apparently in our arrogance we still believe we are the best! Not so!

So enough of this “lonely planet” editorial and back to the shipping business which is the reason for all this “tripping”…

We have the following:

1. Fleet Line Shipping Services in U.A.E., and the nice and clever daughter of the owner, Mr. Peter Mathew

2. Maldives Shipping, a company very much based in paradise too

3. Silkargo Indonesia, part of Samudera Group and respectable and capable Indonesian shipping group

general and project cargoes worldwide.

Read the interview with Ocean Network Express (ONE) Europe & Africa

We of course provide you with shipping news, trade intel, wise words and a link to both featured picture and video of the week!

Don’t forget to download our PCW app here……

And we remain until next week.

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Simona Peter, Business Development Manager at Fleet Line Shipping, Dubai, UAE was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Maldives State Shipping - Male, Maldives

Video Interview: Silkargo - Jakarta, Indonesia

Thaha Mohamed, Commercial Manager at Maldives State Shipping was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Yudi Riyadi, President Director at Silkargo, Indonesia was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Lord Howe Island – A True Paradise Island

Editor’s Note:

The morning before my departure from Lord Howe Island, my commentary in the video speaks for itself…

Editor’s Note:

Visited Lord Howe Island and in less than 20 minutes you can visit both the northern beaches one facing west and one facing east enabling you to get sunset/sunrise with considerable ease. As for shipping, a supply vessel arrives about once a month from Port Macquarie.

Wise Words

WEEK 45 – 2022

November 10, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 10th of November and we are here again.

I have recovered from jet lag from the long trip back from Lord Howe Island to Stockholm and can slowly see the light again. Speaking of seeing, I am also “recovering” from an eye operation. I opted to get multifocal lens implants which do come at an extra cost, but they say that I will then NOT need to use glasses ever again, and that is a relief. Let us hope I can recognize the wife after the vision gets back to normal, but it is also a reminder that age is creeping up. Slowly, like an old car, the spare parts come into play, and if it is not the eyes then it is the legs, hands, and whatnot. Like my mum says: “Difficult to grow old as we never tried it before”.

But overall, I am very happy that I DID visit Lord Howe Island–something that I always wanted and now it’s done. One down and several to go. I aim to tick off things more regularly than before and use the time that is given wisely.

Regrettably, age doesn’t make me wiser, it seems as I found out this week. After having had a nice long dinner with Hutchison Port of Stockholm, the next day I was simply in no state to do much–let alone drive a car. Yet, as we all know, in our minds we are young, but the body just won’t cope, and it does take longer to get back on top so to speak!

Anyway, for a moment there during the evening I was flying, and I am beginning to understand what makes people crave for a “high”. Most of us crave something whether or not it is good for us I guess, and I am definitely no different. However, the wife’s angry stare made me remember to let it be a long time before I return home “early” again.

Midterm elections are on in the US, and the usual show has started again. Why do they need midterm elections? Isn’t it enough with elections every four years? Perhaps someone could explain that to me. It seems a costly affair, and it seems that the US should focus on other things at hand instead of another election circus in the middle between two presidential periods.

The rhetoric and almost hate between the “warring factions” is really something else. To some extent, it would seem to the outsider as if democracy is somehow broken, especially due to the very low voter turnout. In my view, voting should be mandatory. We have no right to complain if we don’t get up from the sofa and really cast our vote. Let us see what happens, and I suppose we will know soon enough.

On the shipping front, rates are finally coming down to more “reasonable” levels, and the nose of most shipowners is now gradually returning down to a normal state. That is something to be thankful for. The jury is still out when it comes to success or not of owners actively trying to act as freight forwarders, but certainly they do have a war chest of funds that they need to put to work as it is all about shareholder value nowadays. Yet, those ideas do not always see eye-to-eye with the original founders of the company. More often than not, the original founders had vision, ideas, and could build something from scratch, whereas the ones taking over are hardly innovators. Additionally, rest assured that if the new leaders fail, there will be a large parachute shielding them from a hard landing. We see that also in the public service and government sectors. More often than not, incompetence and inability to meet budgets is actually somehow “rewarded”. Networking is also key here, and even though you screw up in a major government position, at least here in Sweden, you don’t need to fret. There will always be an embassy vacancy somewhere or you can be sent down to the Mickey Mouse European parliament, in business class of course!

On the network front, as you know I am chairman of both www.clcprojects.com and www.cross-ocean.com. It has been decided that the locations for 2023 will be as follows: Budapest, 1st week of June (can combine with Breakbulk Europe in Rotterdam) and then Mauritius, 2nd week of October. More shall be forthcoming about this.

Well enough of my deliberations. We need to return to actual business.

We start off by talking to:

1. CIMC – a major Chinese company involved in container production and other kinds of steel fabrications; they’ve got an interesting new flat rack product called TSD Rack for OOG cargo.

2. Swift Cargo in India – a strong local player; also very experienced in airfreight and charter flights.

3.We re-publish a great interview we had with Hutchison Ports Stockholm and their CEO Mr. Lawrence Yam.

Then, we, of course, provide you with shipping news, trade intel and wise words. We also offer you a featured video and photo of the week.

Wishing you all the best and until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Yours sincerely, Bo

H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Richard CAI, Licheng, Director New Business CIMC TSD – Shenzhen, China was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Swift Cargo – Mumbai, India

Video Interview: Hutchison Ports Stockholm, Sweden

Harish Pandeya, Managing Director at Swift Cargo, Mumbai, India was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Lawrence Yam, CEO at Hutchison Ports Stockholm was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Landing in Sydney from Lord Howe Island

Editor’s Note:

Landing in Sydney coming off Lord Howe Island is fantastic when the weather is great, bit bumpy but that day 29/10 it was nice…you even get a glimpse of the Port Botany Container Terminal where I last visited whilst onboard mv CMA CGM Georgia as passenger enroute to Melbourne.

Editor’s Note:

Although PCW is not “sold to anyone” in particular of the shipowners we must give full credit to MSC who had a stunning booth at the recently held AntwerpXL fair at Antwerp last month. At least it epitomizes what kind of shipping they are about until now at least…

Wise Words

WEEK 46 – 2022

November 17, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday the 17th of November and we are here again.

We are right now in the process of compiling our Project Cargo Weekly Yearbook 2022. It will be a “must have” issue where you find all the major interviews, both written and video, and all clickable in an online format that you perhaps remember from last year.

As usual, we will NOT allow too many ads in the yearbook. However, there will be some, and for those of you who might be interested, do contact me directly at bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com for a discussion about availability and cost.

As we all know, there is no free lunch in this world, and it costs money to earn money. Although I have met some people in life who always thought that they could get away without spending anything and who, for lack of a better word, perhaps jealously guarded what they had and never shared. I have learnt that if you share information, skill, and knowhow, you in fact get MORE power. If, at the same time, you are not too selfish of a person, you stand a good chance of winning shall we say.

Speaking of the fact that it costs money to earn money, by the same kind of measure one might say relationships need to be nurtured too, and none more so than the ones you have at home. And since the doctor always told me to stretch ☺ I killed two birds with one stone and ordered a stretch limousine for the transport to dinner last night where I had invited the dragon (aka wife) along. It was a great event and although the dinner didn’t live up to the usual standards for lack of staff apparently, it was a cozy evening with live jazz, red wine and so on. The best part was seeing the neighbour’s face when this DALLAS style limo pulled up in front of our entrance (see here).

I think it was well deserved. It has been years since we let the kids be kids and took time for a few hours dining

out. The moral of this is, of course, to be kind and thoughtful to others but you also gotta treat yourself once in a while. Whilst some people, particularly many well off, seem to think that the last jacket has many pockets, that is indeed not so. More often than not you leave bitter fights behind if you leave too much. I will never forget my grandfather who told me this quote: “The man is good but the money is better.” When my brother passed away, I saw firsthand how money changes people’s attitudes overall or at least their real character comes to light after all the claims of being NOT greedy… Back then, the undertaker told me if only I could have known how many such episodes of greed, backstabbing, planning ahead and lawyering up follow some people’s passings. Disgusting really!

We have a minimum wage in many countries, why don’t we have a maximum wage too? This would ensure that endless greed could be curtailed and a more reasonable distribution system put in place. Just read the book “Lucifer’s Banker”. You will know what I mean, and no, it is not in Russian ☺; it’s in English!

Right now I am on the train to Gothenburg for a couple of meetings, and tomorrow I shall be “training” again from Gothenburg to Copenhagen. I am finding it a real pleasure to take the train. With the high speed travel, high speed wifi, and a pleasant cabin you can stretch out in, the train makes for a solid combination of work and pleasure.

On November 25, I am off to Asia again for the last time this year, after which I am grounded for repair and refurbishment until February. Then I shall be joining Dubai and Middle East Breakbulk and yes, celebrating my 60th birthday on the island of Malta.

Right! Back to the world of business and for what we have got in store today.

1.We visit the windy city aka Chicago and speak to LR International – a family-owned, freight forwarder with a couple of interesting niches where they have carved out a good business model, i.e. the transport and storage of IMO cargoes of also the most dangerous nature.

2.We speak to Wallenius-SOL in Gothenburg – a regional RoRo carrier with pretty big RoRo ships for the Baltic/Continent v.v. trade, and now taking more and more high/heavy and static cargo – sometimes, even on MAFI trailers all the way from Asia!

3.We re-visit ALS – Abnormal Load Services – in the UK, and they are indeed specialised in abnormality in the UK (currently too in politics ☺), but yes, moving very awkward pieces around and also the same on an international scale.

Reminding you also to take a look at the shipping news today, and the trade intel that we provide. So if you are in the sales division of your company, perhaps it is time to get a move on, even get away from your desk and in fact meet some customers–the world can’t be ruled only from a sofa or a computer. Of course, we provide you with our featured picture/video of the week and wise words.

Finally let us not forget that we have got an excellent PCW APP that you can download here.

Until next week, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Wallenius-Sol – Gothenburg, Sweden

Paul Jarzombek, President & CEO at LR International was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview with Mr. Ragnar Johansson CEO

First of all Ragnar, tell our readers a little about your career in shipping leading up to your current position. Why did you enter into a shipping career originally?

I went to sea at the age of 17 and was sailing around for 18 years, mainly in general cargo vessels, container vessels, tankers, and ferries. During that time, I studied to be a Master Mariner and worked as second and chief officer during the last 10 years.

When I met my wife in the mid-eighties, I put one foot ashore and went to Stena Line. During those years as an officer, there was a lot of free time that I spent studying for a masters degree in shipping economics.

All of a sudden, Stena lifted me ashore to work with the HSS project–the Concord project of the ferry industry. It was a very exciting time!

I then followed different positions within Stena Line, first as Port and Terminals Manager, then Route Director for The Sweden-Poland traffic, and finally Route Director for Gothenburg-Germany. In total, I spent 20 years in the company.

In 2008, I got a call from Swedish Orient Line (SOL), an old shipping company established in 1911. Stora Enso was about to outsource their liner shipping activities to SOL and they needed a Managing Director for that SPP company.

At the time, I was done with passengers, restaurants and bars, so I accepted. In 2014, I was promoted to CEO for the SOL Group of companies. During that time, I learned a lot about the forest industry and their logistical challenges.

One obvious finding was that it could be done much more efficiently. The Swedish and Finnish forest industry had traditionally operated their own vessels, mostly on long-time charters and smaller old vessels.

Our idea was to bundle the volume from several producers into one system and offer the customers a cheaper, more reliable transport with less risk. Instead of taking full risk on their T/C vessels, they would be a customer among others in an open liner system, tailor-made for them, but with the ability to attract other customers from other segments to share the risk. That idea was obviously tasty, so together with Wallenius Lines SOL, we founded WALLENIUS SOL in April 2019 and ordered two mega RoRo´s in China.

Before that, we had signed long term contracts with several forest industry companies. I acted as CEO for both SOL and WALLENIUS SOL for two years. Last year, I left SOL to focus 100% on WALLENIUS SOL.

Wallenius is a well-known, shall we say car carrier name, but Wallenius-SOL: what can you tell our readers about this entity? Is it a separate company? What are the main trade routes, and do you accept cargo inquiries from anyone?

WALLENIUS SOL is a 50/50 joint venture between Wallenius Lines and Swedish Orient Line. It is a perfect partnership. Both companies are privately owned, well-established, and have a long shipping history. There are no major overlaps in competence but instead, core competences in each company that complete each other. One of the most important things is that both owners share the same passion to reach sustainability towards the planet.

We are a separate company that should stand on its own two feet. The vision we formulated when the company was established was “to create a sustainable infrastructure at sea for the industry around the Bay of Bothnia”. That is what we are delivering right now. It is an open liner system for anyone that has the need of our route network. We operate from the far north in the Baltic to Travemünde/Lübeck, Zeebrugge, Antwerp and Tilbury.

Since last summer, we operate five vessels in this trade of which two are new buildings: the Baltic and Botnia Enabler. They are the world’s biggest ice classed RoRo´s, built to the highest environmental standard.

High and heavy cargo was originally shipped by breakbulk vessels. However in recent years, both container carriers and also RoRo carriers have started to show great interest in static, so-called ‘project cargo’. Tell us about your experience in this field and why you believe that RoRo is a good solution for it?

RoRo in a liner service is a perfect solution if the vessels are suitable. A liner service means that the vessels are running on a schedule. The customer knows the exact departure and arrival times and can plan accordingly.

Our RoRo´s are very suited for project cargo, especially the Enablers. They have a clear height of 7.2 meters on the main deck and lower hold. The SWL on the stern ramp is 300 tons and the deck strength on the main deck is 4 t/sqm. The aft part of the main deck is reinforced and can carry a bogie load of 80 tons. And we have lifted many huge objects by crane to the weather deck. So yes, our vessels are very suited for project cargoes.

Given that Wallenius is a global RoRo carrier, are you able to combine shipments arriving from, say, Asia to the North of Sweden “unbroken” and on the same MAFI trailer all the way from Asia to final destination?

Yes, we can…and do. As both companies call at the same port basin in Antwerp, we at Europort and Wallenius Willemsen at ICO, it is easy to do transshipments, and we do them regularly.

Are Wallenius-SOL freight forwarder-friendly? Given that some shipowners now want to be the jacksof-all-trades doing it all…?

We most definitely are! At an early stage, we decided not to compete with our customer, meaning we are a port-to-port operator, and that’s it. If a customer wants help with a door-to-door transport, we can always direct them to a forwarder to help out.

Tell us about your route for Wallenius-SOL and your frequency of sailings. Whom should people contact for inquiries in Scandinavia specifically and then the continent in general?

We have weekly sailings from Benelux, two from Zeebrugge and one from Antwerp and Tilbury, all to the north Baltic. From Travemünde/Lübeck there is one northbound sailing and two to UK and Benelux.

All contact information to our sales teams is easy to find in our website Ports & Agents section (www.wallenius-sol.com: please use the menu or scroll down to the bottom of our home page)

Can you see that business is picking up or is it slacking off? What is your opinion of the market now if you look at your crystal ball?

When it comes to project cargo, we see a positive development. The main reason is probably all the vast industry investments in the north. Parallel to the industry investments, new windmill parks will be erected.

What we see now is only the start of project cargoes flowing into north Sweden and Finland.

Would you be able to accept the odd passenger on your SOL route?

Yes we are. We have the capacity of twelve passengers per ship. We often have drivers for oversized units onboard.

How is it best for our readers to get in touch with you?

Again, you will find all the contact details for myself and our entire staff on our website www.wallenius-sol. com

Landing at Singapore’s Changi Airport

Editor’s Note:

Shipping and Singapore are synonomous – see here during landing at Singapore Changi Airport recently where I arrived from Phuket and just made the connection to Perth, Australia with minutes to spare. But what an inflight view.

Editor’s Note:

Military shipping is also shipping as seen here with some NATO war ships in the freeport of Stockholm, Sweden recently. Not only was it a beautiful morning but it was also comforting to know that Sweden and Finland soon will be joining the NATO defence alliance.

Wise Words

WEEK 47 – 2022

November 24, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is the 24th of November, Thursday, and the final issue before the month of December is upon us. For most of us, that is the last month of the year… unless you also celebrate the Chinese New Year which begins on January 22, 2023 ☺ .

I just got back from a great trip to Denmark. I visited both our capital Copenhagen with its renowned lunch restaurants (accompanied by beer and aquavit) and then a visit to my parents. I was a bit in luck on Thursday last week as several shipowner and shipbroker reps were meeting anyway in Nyhavn, Copenhagen. See featured picture in this week’s issue and you can also see here a small compilation of pictures from my trip to Gothenburg, Copenhagen, Grenaa and then back to snow chaos in Stockholm.

On Friday (tomorrow), I am departing for Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Malta before being grounded from December 6 to early February 2023.

On Saturday in Singapore, I will join some other Danish friends at the Dubai Golf Club as it seems we can watch the Denmark vs. France football match there on the big screen. No doubt an interesting event, although the choice of venue by FIFA surely enriched some of the decision maker’s wallets. I mean who are we kidding nowadays.

Mao Tse Tung the “great” Chinese leader said it most aptly: ” In the cleanest water live no fish.” That doesn’t mean that I or anyone for that matter should condone or should accept unfair business practices, but look around you. See the world how it is instead of pretending to live in a dream world. Money changes people. It always has and always will. It is simply a matter of reducing corruption, waste, and nepotism to a manageable degree. However, eradicating it completely is a pipe dream in my view. I am, of course, proud that the countries where I reside mostly in the year, i.e., Sweden and Denmark are low on the corruption list, but we have our instances of ill gotten gains, too–certainly also among the powers that be and the powers that, yes, just

talk…… Malta where I also lived for a couple of years had a journalist murdered not long ago due to exposing a few things linking up the government and some business people, and I dare say that other “clean” European countries have their share.

As I am turning 60 in February, I read with interest this infographic about where the best places to retire would be apparently. Seems that I am living in one of them, and although not in the top spot, Sweden is at least among the (several) Scandinavian countries that are highly ranked. Proof is in the pudding, and let’s see the length of the waiting list to get an operation when something happens…

I had good discussions as usual with my parents in Grenaa. I fear for the day when we are just the 2 of us left (out of 4) to enjoy a drink, a cigarette, and talking about old times. It seems that we never run out of subjects to chew over, whether it’s past or present, politics or family. Perhaps it is simply a reflection of the many years we have been apart either due to travel, sailing, living abroad or such. The memory bank is close to full, and I remind all that filling up the memory bank in time for that rainy day when you can no longer move is VITAL…

So when I turn 60, I decided that I will reduce my travel and workload – although perhaps I am lying to myself once again – let’s see. Retiring completely is probably impossible. A man’s gotta do what man’s gotta do. I don’t know how to play golf and collecting stamps is boring…

Here’s my philosophy: Live a little every day with a goal which is more-or-less unreachable. In that way, the journey towards the goal is your real life in (I believe) the right way. I think it was United Airlines that said it perfectly in an ad once: “Life is a journey; travel it well”… (which of course nowadays doesn’t mean travelling United or American with coffee in paper cups.. ☺).

So without further ado, let me tell you what is in store in today’s issue of Project Cargo Weekly.

1.We visit the beautiful country of Malaysia, ‘Truly Asia’, as their slogan was years ago and talk to a highly specialised and asset-owning, project freight forwarding company called MegaLift based in Port Klang, the main port of Malaysia.

2.We visit the UK, –the cradle of many things including the wonderful game of football (and messy politics). Here we visit a great and particularly well-renowned ferry port but also to my surprise a port that has many solutions for heavylift and project cargoes. Thus we speak to Portico & Port of Portsmouth and listen to what they can offer. If you need transport to the channel islands, Portsmouth is the link to Jersey / Guernsey.

3.We revisit the country that has had the most government since 1939, and that is of course ITALY. A smaller but well established project freight forwarder called Energy International Logistics SRL has its HQ there, and their owner tells us more.

See you next Thursday on December 1st, and for those of you (many hopefully) do make a note that…

Thursday 15th December will be the final issue of 2022

Thursday 12th January will be the first issue of 2023

This timetable is in order to focus on making the PROJECT CARGO WEEKLY 2022 YEARBOOK, which will be highly sought after as usual!

Until next Thursday, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Video

Video Interview: Portico & Port of Portsmouth, UK

Ling Ling Lim, General Manager, Sales & Business Development at Megalift Sdn Bhd was interviewed by Bo H.Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Matt Green, Commercial Accounts Manager at Portico and Joe Jordan, Duty Port Operations Manager at Portsmouth International Port were interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Interview: MegaLift - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Trevor, firstly can you please tell us about the history of Energy International? When was the company established, who owns it and what kind of logistics business are you mainly involved in?

Personally, I am British and my family came to live in Genoa after World War II, taking over a shipping agency. I was involved very early on in first hand port activity, as agents for Delmas to West Africa and Rickmers with their conventional service to China (before HL took over). Fast forward to today and I have lived in Milan for over thirty-five years.

Interview with Mr. Trevor Norrish Co-Founder & Partner

Italy (in particular) is well known for having many customers that often ask for a very long credit time. How do you manage that as a project freight forwarder nowadays?

Energy Intl. Logistics started as we teamed up with partners coming from multinationals, such as Geodis, K&N, Fagioli, JAS etc. and we decided to start our own business in February 2011, combining our common knowledge in the road transport, sea freight and projects sectors. Our CEO is Maurizio Curone, who, today with another three shareholders, manages Energy, TSI (national distributer) and Sintesi (Engineering). Franco Faini (ex Fagioli, JAS Projects) and I head projects and OOG cargo and the rest of the business is in European road services and air-freight. Indeed, this is an ‘Italian problem’. Many if not all clients request sixty to ninety-day credit terms and as a result this requires substantial cash flow to pay owners, or the use of banks at a very high cost. We try and split the FOB costs with long credit and sea-freight with shorter terms, but very few respond well to this proposal.

Do you have experience in handling project cargo in and out of Italy? If so, could you please provide us with some examples?

Yes, we have a combined experience that puts us in a privileged position in working with many large clients and we are able to give them the ‘personal touch’, which is often lost on the multinationals. We follow clients twenty-four-seven and many of them realize that this value-added service has faded away for many reasons that everyone knows. Some of our clients are major players in helicopters and cockpits, engines and electric generators, port and offshore cranes and many others. We also have many clients abroad in the Middle East, Indonesia and Mexico.

Competition amongst forwarders is fierce. What are you doing in order to stand out as first among equals?

Truly, the market is full of forwarders who also sell project cargo services. We find ourselves quoting for, let’s say, a part charter project involving FOB delivery of a 4/500-ton crane, organizing all the l/s/d, loading, the actual fixing of the vessel up to FAS port of discharge and then at the end we find we are negotiating a 1000euro difference on a freight of over $250/300K because someone quoted less.

We can only bring our long-term experience (my ex-Fagioli colleague in projects is a true architect in this industry) and very few can match. Clients often understand this and appreciate it.

How do you find the level of customer service from the major shipping lines, both in container and breakbulk, nowadays? Are there any shipowners that you’d recommend as having excellent customer service, or any whom you’d similarly refrain from using?

It varies. We have good relationships with some major carriers, but with others we are measured by TEU volume rather than OOG and get treated consequently. In projects, we work with Big Lift and Splithoff, who follow us very well through their Italian brokers and occasional visits. Most booking, even with OOG, is done online and with some container operators there are coordinating problems in terms of documentation. Sometimes it’s a nightmare and we try to stick with a couple of good operators if we can.

Do you currently belong to any international networks? If so, why and how do you find it useful?

Yes, we joined Cross-Ocean after rather a lengthy research period. We get good feedback and good sales leads that help us to quote new business. With trusted members around the world, we feel confident that we’re building good and healthy relationships with new partners.

Italy has many ports. Could you elaborate for our readers on which ports in Italy are mainly used for handling project cargo?

Being a smallish company, we mainly concentrate on northern Italian ports as Venice or Genoa/La Spezia. We are currently involved in moving a ninety-ton transformer to Russia and will be working with Chioggia to Novorossiysk (a very small but cheap port for this trade).

What’s the best way to get in touch with you?

You can contact me at:

Trevor Norrish

Energy International Logistics

t.norrish@eilsrl.com

Tel. +39 02 99265929

Mobile: +39 333 1159266

Passing the Port of Södertälje by Fast Train to Gothenburg

Editor’s Note:

Passing the port of Södertälje by fast train to Gothenburg clearly showed me that lots of cargo had just arrived. Cars as well as prefab housing modules from Asia were filling up the port. More prefab modules are expected with some 20,000 f/t coming in early 2023.

Editor’s Note:

What can be better than a relaxed lunch ahead of Christmas between colleagues in shipping and as charterers, ports, freight forwarders, owners, and liner operators were represented ALL views were heard particular after a few cheers…☺

Wise Words

WEEK 48 – 2022

December 1, 2022

Dear Readers,

It is Thursday, Dec 1st, 2022 and I am in Singapore… although on a flight right now turning my nose back to Europe primarily for family reasons.

Flying back on a day flight with Emirates out of the Lion City is never a bad idea, especially when it’s a clear day as you can see from the featured photo album towards the bottom of this newsletter. The photos cover Batam, the waters around Singapore, and finally approaching Dubai across Oman with a major Omani port before reaching Dubai.

Singapore arrival is still efficient, although with the new APP/online registration, I doubt that anyone over 50+ will find it efficient. Don’t get me wrong. It is, of course, fantastic with online/apps and what not, but it is just like my argument earlier about WHY CAN’T SHIPOWNERS NOT HAVE BOTH PERSONAL AS WELL AS INTERNET CUSTOMER SERVICE? Banks are the same – if you have mega profits, there SHOULD be a rule that tells you to facilitate BOTH online as well as personal services, and people can take their choice. It should NOT be an option for shipowners, banks, public authorities, etc. to hide behind the sacred internet in order NOT to provide customer service. I am adamant and confident that the shipowner, country, and even bank who is able to forgo their greed a bit and offer BOTH will be a winner.

Just see this quote from a network member about sending just a small amount of money to Europe:

“I don’t know. Banks are crooks. They always take a cut. The only “free” transfers are made in Euros within the EU. For everything else there is a fee. The worst recent example, I sent EUR 1000 to France. The receiver got 950, and I also paid 15 at my end, EUR 65 => 6.5% fee. We should be in banking not forwarding.” ☺

What a case in point! NORDEA / DANSKE BANK / HSBC whatever you are all called: besides looking after the bonuses for your bosses can you explain why it should cost this amount of money to make a small payment

across Europe?

Where is the government in all of this?

Banks will give you an umbrella when the sun is shining and want it back when it’s raining. Don’t forget: borrowing 100 million is easier than borrowing 10,000 because otherwise, some of their employees will NOT feel VIP and snobbish enough to speak to you. Shame on the banks overall and generally also the authorities who are too feeble to give them a slap that can be felt, particularly in the field of CUSTOMER SERVICE…

Anyway back to our shipping world which perhaps is more in line with the real world.

We start off in the Solomon Islands now that is certainly not a daily event, right? In this rather remote location, we speak with Express Freight Management in Honiara who tell us about their shipping services in their part of the world..

Next, we have interviews from the archives from Germany, a land known for not just beer and sausage but culture as well. We speak with COLI Logistics who tell us about their project cargo and breakbulk services.

Finally, we visit AD Transport Solutions in Panama

.

By the way, did you ever see our corporate video? Check it out here, you can also download the free PCW App

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

Express Freight Management – Honiara, Solomon Islands

Interview with Cornelio Duano Branch Manager

First of all Cornelio, can you tell our readers about the history of EFM? Who are the owners; what is your head count; where have you got offices, for example?

The owner and managing director of Express Freight Management is Robert I. Howden. Here is a graphic about our departments and staffing:

We have offices in:

•Papua New Guinea – POM

•Papua New Guinea – LAE

•Fiji – Nadi

•Brisbane Australia

•Solomon Island

When we think about the trade to the Pacific Islands, its location is a bit “remote”, shall we say. Do you find it difficult to find the right shipping solutions or are there shipowners regularly calling?

In the Solomon Islands, there are 3 major shipowners (shipping lines) calling. Below are the details:

•PIL(Pacific International Lines)

•Swire

•One

Have you handled heavylift and project cargoes before? Could you give us some examples?

We have 3 major projects that we handle for our 3 major clients:

•CEA Logistics – Gas Tank for Origin Gas Company in Solomon

•Hyundai Engineering – Tina Hydro Project

•GPPOL (Guadalcanal Plains Palm Oil Ltd.)

We have read in the news that China, for example, is a current active investor in the Solomon Islands. Can you elaborate and tell our readers about the business of your country and the foreign trade–with whom do you trade the most these days?

Almost all the businesses are owned by Chinese companies, especially in the construction and FMCG sectors. Our principal PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL LINES (PTE) LTD is one of the biggest shipping lines that has been dealing with Chinese companies since day one in Honiara.

Does tourism generate a big income for the Solomon Islands?

Since the border is already open for tourists to visit Solomon, there have been several cruise lines calling in Solomon these past few months. For one of the cruise ships, EFM is the port agent. All in all, tourism is slowly

picking back up.

What kind of transportation equipment do you own?

We have our own transport fleet in Honiara, and some of the company is tying up with us for some projects. Our transport equipment is:

•1 prime mover with 20’/40’ side-lifter

•1 x 20’ Side-Lifter

•3 delivery vehicles (1 x 3.5T and 2 x 1T)

How about the Covid19 situation in your country and the other countries where you have got offices– is business back to normal?

Yes, it is business as usual.

How would it be best for our readers to reach you?

Cornelio Duano, Branch Manager

PO Box 1939 | Cross Road, Sun Valley, Honiara, Solomon Islands

Tel: (Direct) +677-22111: Trunk Line: +677-21112

Mobile No.: +677-883-7909

Email: duanoc@expressfreight.com.sb

Website: www.expressfreight.com

Branches at: Lae | Port Moresby | Brisbane| FIJI | Honiara-Solomon Islands

Video Interview: Coli Schiffahrt & Transport - Bremen, Germany

Alain Akavi, Managing Directory at Coli Schiffahrt & Transport Bremen GmbH was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

AD Transport Solutions – Panama City, Panama

When was your company established, Dorita? Who are the owners today and what is your main line of business?

Our Company was established in March 2010, but it really was March 2012 when we started full operations. Our principals are general manager Dorita Miranda de Bolaños & Andres Bolaños, both founders well known in the local market with good experience in logistics services. Also we have an operations manager Linda Young who has extensive experience in the industry.

Our main line of Business is related to Ocean, air and land transportation, including specialized cargo such as reefer and oversize cargo. We also offer value-added services such as customs brokerage & cargo insurance.

As an additional service, we provide consultancy, for example training in subjects related to logistics among others.

Interview with Ms. Dorita de Bolaños Commercial Director

Panama is famous around the world for the Panama Canal. Tell us about your country it’s imports & exports and who are the major trading partners of Panama?

Yes, Panama is well known because of its logistics development lead by the Panama Canal which opened the road for a successful integrated logistics platform.

Panama’s strategic position provides a perfect spot for companies to settle their regional operations, taking advantage of the cargo capacity (different modes of transportation), frequencies and ample menu of destinations.

Import and export operations in Panama are very easy to perform due to several factors. One of them is because of the different customs scenarios we manage that provide companies with the flexibility to perform logistics operations. For example, we have a Free Zone in which companies can store products without paying taxes and with no time limit, this, combined with flexible customs regulations, creates a winning environment.

Our major trading partners are China & the USA, we also have some interesting volume coming from Europe.

Can you give us more details about the ports of Panama, both on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts?

Panama has an interesting port infrastructure capable of handling not only containers but also special cargo such as oversize project cargo, vehicles, reefers, LNG, DGR, and others. In addition, due to the strategic position, over 20 shipping lines are actually operating in Panama. This provides a good selection of alternatives in terms of capacity and convenient connectivity.

In the Atlantic area, we have three ports: Manzanillo, Cristóbal and Colon Container Terminal. In the Pacific, we have three ports: Balboa, PSA, and PATSA.

In addition to the port capabilities, we can add internal connectivity between the ports through a railroad system, road, and the Panama Canal.

How about customs clearance in Panama, is it difficult?

No, Panama is not difficult to make imports and business. Customs regulations are not complex.

Panama is always working and looking for ways to facilitate operations.

For example:

VUMPA (Ventanilla Unica Maritima de Panama) is a project that processes the arrival and departure of the ships in Panama, resulting in the verification of dual functions between entities, making the process for the shipping lines easy and agile due the large number of documents the captain must deliver to the ship when arriving at the port.

A large MSC vessel passing through the new locks of the Panama Canal

Does Panama offer free trade zones if someone would like to store goods for a shorter or a longer period of time waiting for it to be sold?

Yes, in Panama there is a Free Zone and there is not a time restriction when using the free trade zone. You can store them and develop your business in your own time. In order to take advantage of this scenario, all customers must be registered with the free zone administration in order to be able to operate there.

What types of projects or difficult shipments have you handled recently?

We provide service and handle cargo to companies that are working for large scale country projects such as hospitals, metro transportation, and commercial malls.

Why did you choose a career as a freight forwarder, Dorita?

I chose freight forwarding because Panama’s natural logistic capabilities and connections offer the possibility to integrate solutions to develop the freight forwarding business. Also because I love logistics, every shipment has different solutions and makes you look at everything from another angle.

Besides visiting the Panama Canal can you recommend any other places worth visiting in Panama?

Yes, Panama is a Small county but have special areas: In the countryside, we have Chiriquí, our main productive agriculture land. We also have San Blas, with beautiful beaches.

I am confident that some of our readers would like to get in touch with you to learn more, can you provide your contact details, please?

Yes, with great pleasure to all our colleagues interested in doing business with Panama, we are available to help you.

Dorita de Bolaños Directora Comercial dorita@corporaciondomi.com

linda@corporaciondomi.com (operations

manager)

atencionacliente@corporaciondomi.com (customer service)

Taking-off from Dubai en Route to Singapore

Editor’s Note:

Taking off from Dubai is a cool experience. I shot this video on enrout to Singapore earlier this week.

Editor’s Note:

Dhow shipping and OLD Dubai as seen here by the creek from Radisson Blu, Deira… nice indeed and a reminder of things past.

Wise Words

WEEK 49 – 2022

December 8, 2022

Dear Readers,

Today it is Thursday the 8th of December… and the 250th issue of Project Cargo Weekly..

Looking back, I am surprised even myself that I have indeed managed to publish that many issues which include 420 written and 110 video interviews. So I guess I could run for public office soon with all that talking and with all those “golden” opinions in my 250 editorials ☺ .

Anyway I am very pleased to know that many around the world are looking forward to receiving the newsletter, and I will strive also in 2023 to continue in the same way. One small change for 2023 will be that I will be publishing bi-weekly (that is, every two weeks). It requires a bit more time and with kids at home growing bigger they also require more attention, not to mention of course the local dragon which also require my assistance for many chores on a weekly basis ☺.

In other words then, starting January 2023, our PCW newsletter will be arriving to your Inbox every even week [Weeks 2,4,6,8 and so on]

Here in Scandinavia, the winter (or shall we say minus degrees) has arrived. That means coping with the usual condiments of having sore throats, running noses, kids coming home from school with ear infections and darkness from about 3pm to 7am. Of course, it is also cosy to have dark times (so to speak) as it is the custom here to make the homes and even exteriors filled with lights since there is little natural light this time of year. Thus in Stockholm where I normally reside, we should NOT complain–it is not even halfway up north in Sweden…. they say that the most children are produced during the winter months…wonder why? ☺

Here you can see some pictures that show the current scenery during winter times in at least a part of Stockholm, Sweden

On the container shipping front, things seem to be turning from incredible to very depressing in a matter of just a few months. The latest newbuilding, the worlds largest, left Asia and is now steaming towards Northern Europe with only 1/3 of her capacity filled up. When talking to contacts in the market, the situation is simply that the cargo is not there. Warehouses are full because companies bought too much before as they were worried about having a lack of supplies during the COVID shipping pandemic and the overbooked vessel situation.

This past week, China has announced a gradual reduction of some of their most ridiculous Corona restrictions which is good. Hopefully, we can finally welcome the 2nd largest economy into the world trade again.

China’s reputation as a manufacturing hub has no doubt taken a blow and as much as there are advantages in a top down system there are also major systemic disadvantages with lower level bureaucrats becoming kings in their own right and being afraid of taking a decision on their own for fear of being blamed. This also happens in countries like Japan or Germany where, just beneath the surface no-one is willing to decide unless the manager is around.

A case in point is the instance reported awhile ago by Tradewinds about the death of an Oldendorff bulker Chief Officer in a Chinese port apparently due to unreasonably strict COVID policies.

No matter what political system we live under there should be checks and balances. Let us be grateful if we are lucky enough to live in a system where such measures allow us to actually enjoy our lives with a modicum of freedom. Nowhere is perfect, that much is true.

The final “travel” message I would like to share with you are these 2 fantastic videos that I managed to shoot from the 47K (yes Economy class) window seat on Emirates. Seldom in 20 years have I have been able to see this clearly after take off. The pictures are of Singapore, crossing Batam, and parts of Indonesia before heading out over the Indian Ocean

Right… now to our shipping items in this week’s publication – the penultimate (one before the last)of 2022. We’ve got the following in the “online” store for you:

1. GAC – Gulf Agency Company – U.A.E. – No further introduction needed they have grown into a global

player in many parts of shipping and show that Scandinavian management (i.e.: Swedish) can also excel here IF they want and have got right timing in logistics.

2. Aqua Global Logistics in Oman – An Indian-owned company which has done well in GCC countries, and if anyone didn’t know, they can surely believe it when I say that India is behind and controls a lot of the business in the GCC region overall.

3. ES Logistics in Brazil – A strong player in the huge Brazilian market with a long track record of moving major projects. Hopefully, the country will be on its feet and develop as it should under whatever leadership that finally emerges.

We, of course, provide you with the usual shipping news, trade intel, wise words and featured photo and video of the week. Note particularly the video which is impressive by all means: the world’s largest container vessel setting “sail”.

Until next Thursday, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com

Interviews

GAC Group – Dubai, U.A.E.

Hardeland

Interview with Mr. Lars

Group Operations Director – Shipping

GAC has become a versatile and global group. I believe many of our readers would like to know about the history of the company and its current ownership. There are a lot of Scandinavians (Swedes) in the top management. Was it started by Swedish nationals originally?

GAC’s origins go back to the 1950s as Nyman & Schultz (N&S), a Stockholm-based firm that had been in the shipping and forwarding business for over 100 years. By the mid-fifties, N&S was Sweden’s leading shipping, forwarding, and travel agency. At the helm was Bengt Lindwall.

In the early 1950s, the Gulf countries were in the first stages of building their infrastructure, and Kuwait was importing bagged cement from Sweden. As there were no infrastructure networks or major commercial ports, two Kuwaiti businessmen went to Sweden to look for a good shipping agent. They approached Bengt who visited Kuwait and sealed a deal with local partners, establishing a ship agency business in 1956 – the first Gulf Agency Company (GAC), as it was known then. Kuwait’s Shipping License “No.1” is proudly displayed at GAC Kuwait’s office in Farwaniya today.

Over the next decade, more offices opened throughout the Middle East as the oil, shipping and logistics businesses there grew. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, more GAC companies were established in the Eastern Mediterranean, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Indian Subcontinent. Further expansions in Europe, the Americas, Central Asia and Australia followed in the 1990s and 2000s.

Today, GAC Group is one of the world’s largest integrated providers of shipping, logistics and marine services, wedding the seafaring heritage and straightforward business customs of Scandinavia to the Gulf’s traditions of hospitality and strong personal ties. We continue to expand our geographical footprint to meet customers’ needs and differentiate ourselves through our offerings. We strive to deliver both tangible benefits such as our suite of primary and secondary services performed by experienced and competent staff and partners, as well as intangible benefits such as our long-lasting commitment, long-term vision, accelerated digitalisation efforts and focus on compliance, quality and HSSE – all of which are key enablers of value creation.

As a privately-owned group, our business is led by a Group Management which comprises a mix of individuals from different nationalities who bring with them valuable experience, insights and integrity. They draw on years of accumulated lessons learned in the diverse sectors and disciplines to continue the GAC legacy into the 21st century and beyond.

Sustainable and green are buzzwords nowadays. Hardly a day goes by without hearing them in some context. How does GAC develop their green profile when it comes to shipping business?

As businesses worldwide adapt to meet the International Maritime Organisation’s goal of halving the sector’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, GAC is using its position as a global ship agent and logistics services provider to support its customers’ efforts to decarbonise and operate more sustainably while also following our own sustainability strategy.

GAC’s sustainability journey

GAC wants to do well and do good wherever we can to make the world better, safer, cleaner and greener. That philosophy is at the heart of our commitment to sustainability and reflected in the GAC Spirit as well as the Group Ethics, Compliance and HSSE policies.

To guide our operations, we have developed the ‘Roadmap to Sustainability’ which outlines the Group’s commitment to adapt, innovate and reduce in our activities as well as engage stakeholders to create non-destructive, long-term value towards a sustainable future. Our sustainability goals are aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in three main areas: economic, environmental and social, including a commitment to a Net Zero Carbon future by 2050.

GAC is a member of the Global Maritime Forum’s ‘Getting To Zero’ Coalition, an alliance comprising over 140 companies from various sectors working to accelerate the decarbonisation of shipping by developing and deploying zero-emission vessels by 2030. We are the ship agency and logistics partner for the OneOcean project, a collective of marine organisations seeking to influence ocean protection through aligned, impactful communication.

Our local offices partner with regional/local environmental initiatives such as the Norwegian hydrogen energy project HyValue initiative to accelerate decarbonisation. Some of our companies (GAC Belgium, Greece, Netherlands and the UK) are part of the International Association of Ports and Harbor’s Green Award (GA) Foundation which provides discounted agency fees for GA-certified ships. Our employees regularly participate in environmental and social projects and schemes, from tree planning through to sea waste collection.

Supporting industry efforts

Our 24/7 operations are backed by staff with in-depth local expertise and excellent relations with port authorities for fast and efficient vessel turnaround. Together with our suite of integrated shipping services, we keep vessels around the world running smoothly at optimal levels, providing customers with efficiency, time and cost savings – all of which are key enablers of sustainability.

Last year, we soft-launched our Pegasus customer portal to provide selected international customers with real-time information about port infrastructure, services available, accidents, delays and turnaround times, enabling them to predict port congestion, make informed voyage decisions and reduce fuel consumption.

GAC offers cleaner and alternative fuels to our customers through GAC Bunker Fuels, and eco-friendly Remotely Operated Vehicle hull cleaning solution through our partnership with HullWiper.

Would you say that GAC is a project freight forwarder, a liner agency, a shipping agency or “all of the above”? If you have experience in project freight forwarding, do you also handle and have experience in moving “renewable project cargoes” around the world? Can you elaborate on this and provide our readers with some examples?

We are seeing an increase in offshore renewable energy projects all around the world – a trend that is reflective of the market’s energy transition as countries seek to increase their energy security and become less reliant on oil & gas – imported or otherwise.

Having been involved in offshore development projects including oil & gas activities for decades, GAC has been adapting this experience and expertise to offshore renewables projects which require similar support.

All projects generally require a host of services and assets, from agency, husbandry, bunkering to vessels through to multi-modal freight, warehousing, anchor handling and more. And as a single-source provider of integrated solutions spanning shipping, logistics and marine, GAC is uniquely positioned to provide customised services to meet clients’ needs. This is what differentiates us.

In the UK, we have already established ourselves as a provider of key services for vessels involved in geophysical surveys and the installation of wind turbines, substations, jackets and suction anchors. The expertise gained there is being transferred and applied to other offshore wind projects in the North Sea and Northern Europe, as well as other parts of the world. An example of our expansion to better support customers is the establishment of our new office in Taichung, Taiwan in November 2022 as the country seeks to become a leading provider of offshore wind power in the region.

Our presence in major global hubs, coupled with our ability to bring in experts to service locations requiring additional manpower, means that we can potentially support developments worldwide. At a time when the offshore support sector is facing spiralling costs and growing demand, our role as an integrated services provider is even more important as we work together towards transforming the energy market.

Where do you have fully owned offices currently? What is your headcount?

GAC is one of the largest integrated providers of shipping, logistics and marine services, employing over 7,500 professionals, operating 300 offices in more than 50 countries, and working with trusted partners to cover over 1,000 locations worldwide.

We have offices around the world, from Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and the Indian-subcontinent, Europe to the Middle East where we have developed our business most strongly and are headquartered at.

Which market worldwide do you specifically focus on currently and for 2023? Looking into your crystal ball, how do you believe business will develop overall in shipping post-Covid?

As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are observing the volume of commodities shipped worldwide returning to pre-COVID levels. In the general shipping market, Asia has been the area of growth. We have seen big movements in Asia’s wet bulk and tankers where GAC is predominantly strong, especially since flying has resumed and this transportation mode requires oil & gas. Similarly, the outlook of the dry cargo market – one of our key focus areas and where we are seeing good progress especially in Asia – looks positive as infrastructure and construction development projects continue globally despite crises and economic downturns.

We are also seeing a growth in LNG in the Americas, where we have been considerably successful in growing our market there and have set up offices near terminals to support our customers. Continued steady growth is expected. That said, we will likely see the trickling impact of energy prices, inflation and interest rates in the coming months ahead.

On the logistics side, we’re focusing on certain verticals in alignment with our shipping business such as marine spares, oil & gas and renewables. The Middle East remains our strongest region and we are seeing further investments made into oil & gas projects; followed by Europe which is accelerating its energy transition; Southeast Asia which is and will continue to be the world’s biggest market for renewable energy investment; the Americas where we anticipate longer-term renewables opportunities in Houston and emerging markets like Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil; and South Africa. We also hope to secure renewables projects in the Gulf of Mexico.

Decarbonisation is going to be the primary focus of all supply chains in the immediate future, not just in shipping. Our job as a service provider is to support this inevitable push. However, that doesn’t mean existing fossil fuel projects will disappear.

While most energy will come from renewables by 2050, the volume of oil & gas required to meet growing demand for energy will remain at similar levels, especially as carbon capture technologies are developed to reduce carbon emissions. To retain production – which will not increase in the same way as it did in the past –we will still need substantial investment to replenish what we are taking out of the ground. And as a leading integrated services provider, GAC is actively engaged in supporting industry’s efforts to meet current and future energy demands.

Amid all the market changes, a constant remains: we believe in the concept of maximising the value that customers derive from working with us through our flexible and diverse suite of offerings. This means that when customers invest in GAC, they receive returns that far exceed what they paid for. We are enhancing our operational platform that consolidates useful information such as a statement of facts, cost items, tariffs and port data to simplify our customers’ work. Coupled with our reach, experience, commitment, dedication to drive performance and focus on compliance, quality and HSSE, customers can rely on us to get things done in an efficient and transparent manner.

To know more about GAC and to get a quote or more information, with whom should our readers speak if they are located in Europe, Africa or the Middle East?

If you wish to get more information or a quote from GAC, you may visit our website www.gac.com or contact us at sales@gac.com. Thank you.

Aqua Global Logistics – Muscat, Oman

Interview with Mr. Prathap & Mr. Dharani General Manager / Country Manager

Let’s start off with the usual question about the virus. How is the situation currently on the ground in Oman and for the logistics business to and from Oman?

Optimism is the way forward, and we are optimistic with the situation returning to normalcy. More than 90 percent of the people in Oman who had tested positive for COVID-19 have recovered, a figure that is 30 percent higher than the global recovery rate.

The Oman Logistics Sector has passed a significant milestone during this pandemic crisis with the introduction of e-Delivery and e-Cargo release orders.

In addition, Oman has many attributes. It is a logistics hub due to its strategic position. Its economy is resilient. The country enjoys great connectivity. The infrastructure is world-class, and its advanced energy projects are already playing an important part in expanding business globally.

Tell us about the history of Aqua Global Logistics in Oman. When was the company established? Who are the owners? I believe you are part of a bigger group with Indian roots, is that right?

We are the newest baby in the group. Aqua Global Logistics, Oman was established in August 2018. Our HQ in Bahrain has been functional since 2005 and is privately owned by our CEO & some other shareholders.

Oman is a beautiful country by the Arabian Sea and has several ports. Can you enlighten our readers

about which ports are available for container and project cargo shipping?

Oman has 3 major sea ports which can handle containers and project cargo movements, with every port adding value to the business environment of the country:

•The Port of Salalah is situated right on the major east-west shipping lanes. It is a world class transshipment hub in the West Central Asian region.

•The Port of Sohar is a multipurpose, industrial and logistics complex in the Sultanate of Oman, and it’s also a free zone.

•The Port of Duqm is by far the largest economic initiative in Oman’s modern history, and it also has the Duqm SEZ (special economic zone).

The country also borders Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E. Would there be any shipping moving overland to these countries as well?

Located in a strategically important position, Oman shares land borders with the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. Yes, there are major cargo movements by land between Oman—UAE/KSA due the shortest transit time via this route. Food and medical products are given priority for overland transport.

Do you have experience in moving projects and OOG cargoes to Oman? Could you provide us with some examples?

Yes, we have experience in handling projects and OOG cargoes. This is a specialised field of Freight Forwarding that requires immense expertise, proper planning, experience, and knowledge. We have flawlessly executed and successfully completed many project movements in the region.

•Renaissance Waste Collection Trucks

•Barka Pipeline Project Equipment

A question about tourism for when we are allowed to travel more freely; could you tell us about some nice places to visit in Oman?

Oman’s natural beauty can be found everywhere in the Sultanate. Below are some of the highlights worth visiting:.

•Khareef Salalah during our autumn season

•Al Jabal Al Akhdar, 2000 meters/3000 feet above sea level, is the highest area in Oman and, in fact, all of eastern Arabia; people enjoy its views and favourable climate.

•Rimal Ash Sharqiyah is one of the best sandy deserts.

•Al Hawiyah is one of the biggest oases in Oman.

When our readers wish to get in touch with you, what are their options?

Please do visit our office or write to us at:

AQUA GLOBAL LOGISTICS LLC

Office 103, Al Mudarib Building, Ruwi PC 112, Sultanate of Oman

We are also available by phone Tel:+968-24785889 | Mobile: +968-98981399 and, of course, email:

Ctc: Mr. Prathap | prathap@aquaairlogistics.me

Ctc: Mr. Dharani | dharani@aquagloballogistics.com

http://www.aquaairlogistics.me/

ES Logistics - Curitiba, Brazil

First of all, Fabiano, tell us a bit about ES Logistics. When was the company established, who owns it and why did you establish your head office in Itajai?

Map of Brazil highlighting Itajai

Interview with Mr. Fabiano Ardigó Director

ES Logistics is a family-owned company established in 2001. Our head office is in the south of Brazil in Itajai which today is at the centre of the second largest inbound and outbound sea freight market in Brazil after Santos. Our objective has always been to be very strong in the South of Brazil which is the region with the second largest GDP of the country after Sao Paulo.

What is the main business focus of your company?

Our focus is the customized management of sea freight and airfreight to our qualified customers. We have always had a passion for customer service and our clients look out for our tailor-made solutions. We are also focused on sales and today most of our business is still generated by our own sales efforts. We have a solid portfolio of both inbound and outbound business, in particular, sea freight.

Moments before unloading cargo from one of the six Antonov 124’s that ES Logistics handled in 2017 to Brazil.

Many companies have complained for years about the difficulties dealing with Brazilian customs and that each province has its own rules. Can you tell us a bit more about this, how does it work now, have customs rules been streamlined and is the system more efficient now? What rule of thumb can you give our readers to be careful with when shipping to Brazil?

Brazil still has many countries within its own. I mean, each province (there are 27 in Brazil) may have its own rules that will affect for example taxes, customs regulations, road permits etc… However, nowadays some provinces evolved to world-class standards in terms of efficiency. This autonomy of each province ends up helping importers and exporters because they can choose their routes based on efficiency. The rule of thumb for overseas companies is still always checked with local experts particularly when deliveries require bonded transport and OOG permits.

Operations at sunset at the Port of Navegantes in the South of Brazil. Today the Southern region of Brazil is the second largest sea freight market in Brazil after Santos. The region offers many options for OOG cargo operations.

Tell us about the main ports of Brazil. Which are the main ports used for handling project and oversized cargo these days?

We are specialised in the Southern Brazilian ports. There are many options among these for oversized cargo. For example, Paranagua is well prepared for all sorts of OOG cargo and has a high-efficiency level in terms of customs clearance as I mentioned before. There are many other alternatives which will meet different needs from ro-ro terminals to bulk cargo.

Do you need a license to become a freight forwarder in Brazil?

Yes, you do need a license, but again depending on the region in Brazil business practices can change. For example, in some Brazilian ports, the importer doesn’t need to present the original Bill of Lading to release its cargo from customs. Even for locals like us, we have to take precautions to work in certain areas of our country where there are these kinds of liability risks.

Can you Provide us with some examples of project cargo that you have handled recently and that you are particularly proud of having executed?

Last year we handled a door-to-door project from Scandinavia to Brazil that required six Antonovs 124’s. We were in charge of all steps of the project from planning and outsourcing to execution of pre-carriage, airfreight and bonded transfer at the destination. In total, more than 300 people from 4 different countries helped us to make this happen. We are very proud of having met our customer’s deadlines on this project.

How and when did you start your career in freight forwarding, Fabiano?

I started in 1997 first as branch manager of UTi in the city of Curitiba in the South of Brazil. At that point, my father and brother held the same positions in two other UTi branches. Later we took over ES Logistics where we have been up to today. We are very proud of having created a reputation for high-quality services in the market. Today our company is present in 4 Brazilian provinces with 7 branches.

Do you belong to any freight forwarding networks currently?

We belong to WCA and joined CLC Projects last year. We are impressed with the level of interaction among CLC Projects members. This is indeed a very active network and we are pleased to be part of it.

How to get in touch with ES Logistics for further information?

For inquiries regarding project cargo to and from Brazil, I’m available at fabiano@eslogistics.com.br

The World’s Largest Container Vessel – Ever Atop

Editor’s Note:

The World’s largest container vessel, mv Ever Atop was just launched in Asia at a timing that does seem ominous for the container shipping industry. They certainly need to start using the war chest built up in the last 2 years. But what an impressive video and great music to go along with it. An incredible engineering feat to build such a “monster”.

Editor’s Note:

Flying back from Singapore on the DAY flight made for a wonderful show as you can see from the following collection of photos. Soon after departure we flew over Batam, Indonesia and then over the Indian Ocean crossing Oman and then parts of UAE before descending… wonderful!.

Featured Photo

Wise Words

Video

ANL (Australia National Lines) - Melbourne, Australia

Konstantin Timoshenko, Deputy General Manager at Formag Group – Odessa, Ukraine was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Lincoln Dundas, General Manager – Intra Oceania at ANL was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Video Interview: Formag Group – Odessa, Ukraine

Interview:

Video Interview: BLS – Mozambique, Maputo

Video Interview: Deufol - Belgium, Antwerp

Bercencio Vilanculo, CEO at BLS Mozambique was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Ralph Mertens, Marketing & Business Development Manager at Deufol Belgium was interviewed by Bo H. Drewsen, Editor in Chief at Project Cargo Weekly.

Port of Härnösand, Sweden – Arrival of Chipolbrok Vessel to Load Project Cargo for China

Editor’s Note:

I was at the Port of Härnösand this week where I unluckily fell at the pier due to an ice patch below the snow so I broke my wrist, however I did my duty “on the job” so to speak, so enjoy this video compilation.

Editor’s Note:

The boatsmen waiting to secure mv Paderewski of Chipolbrok alongside Port of Härnösand at minus 10˚C

Wise Words

In case you are wondering about the front and back cover pictures of this yearbook. They are taken during my visit to Lord Howe Island, a tiny island paradise two hours northeast of Sydney in the Tasman Sea. A True Paradise!

Bo H. Drewsen

bo.drewsen@projectcargo-weekly.com Editor in Chief of Project Cargo Weekly