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#Airlander
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Posts tagged #Airlander
5 months ago
Kerosinmangel am Flughafen Hamburg löst Diskussionen aus
Wegen Raffinerieproblemen wird am Hamburger Flughafen Kerosin knapp. Die große Störung des Flugverkehrs blieb zunächst aus. Die Debatte, wer für einen stabilen Betrieb sorgen muss, ist aber entbrannt.
Im Grunde habe ich kein Problem damit, wenn weniger Kerosin verbrannt wird www.faz.net/aktuell/... - Flugverkehre sollten in Zukunft eh anders organisiert werden. Argl der #Airlander scheint auch nie zu kommen.
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6 months ago
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9 months ago
HAV
Airlander 50 is a heavy lifting aircraft offering solutions for industries such as remote mining, oil and gas and more. This aircraft offers larger payloads and additional capability, compared with th...
Why not actually push for the uk's airship #Airlander HAV? They don't need runways and can lift 200 people easily.
www.hybridairvehicles.com/airlander/ai...
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11 months ago
Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news 11 April 2025
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## **TODAY’S BULLETIN OF MARITIME NEWS**
**Click on headline to go direct to story: use the BACK key to return.**
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## **FIRST VIEW – Ships in port**
The port of Durban received a total of 2,880 ship calls during 2024, including all types but excluding naval vessels. This is 31.3% of the total ship calls in South African ports, meaning that the port of Durban is handling almost one third of South African shipping based on ship call numbers. This is of course a statistic that doesn’t explain that a number of these ships will also call at other SA ports, in particular the container and car carrier vessels. Nevertheless it provides an overall picture of how busy the port is in ratio to the other seven. To break down the numbers, General cargo vessels totalled…. Read more…
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## **Coral Sul FLNG achieves historic milestone of 100 LNG shipments**
The Coral Sul Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) platform, operated by Italy’s Eni, has reached a remarkable milestone in its journey of producing and exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG). On Saturday 5 April, the platform celebrated its 100th shipment of LNG, marking a significant achievement in Mozambique’s energy sector. Anchored in ultra-deep waters off Cabo Delgado, the Coral Sul FLNG has been exporting LNG weekly since November 2022. This milestone underscores the project’s commitment to producing and liquefying natural gas with optimal safety standards, providing a cleaner and reliable energy source to the global market. Read more…
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## **Italian Navy frigate Luigi Rizzo bolsters Mozambique ties with port call and new agreements**
On 8 April 8 2025, the Italian Navy frigate Luigi Rizzo docked in Maputo for a four-day visit, marking a significant moment in Italy-Mozambique relations. The four-day stopover, part of the EU-led EUNAVFOR Atalanta operation, precedes the frigate’s mission to safeguard commercial shipping in the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean, areas plagued by piracy and maritime threats. During the visit, Italy and Mozambique signed a military cooperation agreement, announced on 10 April by Italian military attaché Franco Linzalone. This deal, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, outlines joint training, capacity building, and potential expansion to other armed forces sectors. Read more…
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## **Trump thinks tariffs can bring back the glory days of US manufacturing. Here’s why he’s wrong**
**In Conversation:** The “liberation day” tariffs announced by US president Donald Trump have one thing in common – they are being applied to goods only. Trade in services between the US and its partners is not affected. This is the perfect example of Trump’s peculiar focus on trade in goods and, by extension, his nostalgic but outdated obsession with manufacturing. The fallout from liberation day continues, with markets down around the world. The decision to apply tariffs on a country-by-country basis means that rules about where a product is deemed to come from are now of central importance.
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## **SAMSA launches nationwide fishing vessel safety audit**
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has commenced a comprehensive Fishing Vessel Safety Audit to ensure compliance with safety regulations in the country’s commercial fishing sector. This initiative follows tragic maritime incidents in 2024, which were reported here in Africa Ports & Ships and which claimed the lives of 18 fishers. Mandated by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, the audit spans four months and covers major fishing ports nationwide. Inspections began at the Port of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) from 3 to 7 March 2025, with SAMSA officials engaging vessel owners, crew, and industry representatives to assess compliance and emergency preparedness. Read more…
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## **Folk Maritime expand****s regional operations with acquisition of M/V Folk Jazan**
Folk Maritime Services, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has strengthened its presence in the Red Sea with the acquisition of its second owned vessel, M/V Folk Jazan (IMO 9339856). The ship, now registered at Jeddah Islamic Port, has been deployed across routes in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf as part of the company’s expanding regional operations. The 2015-TEU capacity vessel, built in 2008 by Zhejiang Shipbuilding Co., enhances Folk Maritime’s ability to provide reliable feeder and liner services and supports Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global logistics hub under Vision 2030. Read more…
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## **WTO – A pillar of security and predictability**
Speaking at the Global Outlook: Navigating Trade & Investment Trends in 2025 conference co-hosted by the World Trade Centers Association and the Washington International Trade Association (WITA) on 8 April in Marseille, WTO Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard emphasized the enduring value of the multilateral trading system. She also urged business and governments to use the WTO platform to navigate today’s turbulent economic landscape. Addressing an audience of trade and investment professionals, DDG Ellard underscored the WTO’s importance in providing security and predictability for businesses worldwide. Read more…
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## **Transnet unveils R60 million upgrade to East London port, boosting automotive hub status**
The Port of East London is poised for a major transformation following the completion of a R60 million upgrade to its automotive terminal berth, courtesy of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). The project, which deepened and reinforced the berth, promises to enhance efficiency, expand capacity, and significantly increase the port’s ability to handle automotive exports. The upgrade has standardized the depth of all berths along the West Quay to -10.5 metres (Chart Datum) across a total length of 550 metres. This improvement eliminates previous inconsistencies and doubles the port’s design capacity to 790,000 automotive units annually. Read more…
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## **WHARF TALK: expeditionary cruise ship – HEBBRIDEAN SKY**
With the current procession of the megaliners heading north to Europe at the end of their winter cruise seasons, as well as the traditionally large cruise liners passing through on their world tours, one tends to forget the other end of the market that is also attracted to South African shores, also at this time of year. This is especially so as it is now at the end of the season of exploration. Whether it be the expeditionary cruises to Antarctica, or to the out of the way spots in out of the way places, there are specialist passenger vessels that have been designed for exactly that market. Read more…
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## **Transnet seeks partner for new rail leasing venture to boost South Africa’s freight Network**
Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport company, has taken a significant step toward reforming the country’s rail system by launching a search for a private sector partner to establish a new rolling stock leasing company, dubbed “LeaseCo.” The company announced the move with the release of a Request for Qualification (RFQ), marking the beginning of a competitive selection process. LeaseCo is set to play a pivotal role in revitalizing South Africa’s rail network by acquiring, managing, and leasing locomotives and wagons to rail operators in both domestic and regional markets. Read more…
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## **Tariffs on SA citrus will damage both SA and the US, says CGA**
Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) gives dire warning. The countdown is on: starting tomorrow, Wednesday 9 April 2025, a 30% tariff on South African citrus exports to the U.S. will come into effect, putting both the South African citrus industry and rural communities at risk. The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has expressed alarm over the potential impact, calling on the South African government to take immediate action and engage in negotiations with the U.S. to reduce or exempt these tariffs. Read more…
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## **Rangel Logistics invests €6 million to boost South Africa’s logistics sector and foster African growth**
Rangel Logistics Solutions, a Portugal-based international logistics company, is strengthening its commitment to Africa with a significant €6 million (R125.6 million) investment in a new state-of-the-art warehouse in South Africa. This expansion, located near OR Tambo International Airport, is part of Rangel’s broader strategy to capitalize on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement and support regional economic growth by enhancing logistical capabilities across the continent. The new 10,000 m² warehouse will serve as a central hub for Rangel’s expanding Contract Logistics services, offering a range of facilities, including bonded storage for goods up to 24 months and cross-docking services. Read more…
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## **Durban Multipurpose Terminal achieves historic volumes in 2024/2025 Financial Year**
In a remarkable achievement, the Durban Multipurpose Terminal (MPT), situated at the Durban Point, has set a new benchmark for container handling, surpassing 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in the 2024/2025 financial year. This milestone represents the highest throughput in the terminal’s history, significantly exceeding the target of 131,100 TEUs for the period ending March 2025. Strategically located next to the bustling Durban Container Terminals (DCT), the Durban MPT plays a vital role in supporting DCT operations by handling overflow containers and ensuring seamless logistics flow. As part of its operations, the terminal has provided crucial backup to maintain efficiency amid increased demand. Read more…
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## **Heavy rains bring death and destruction to DRC capital Kinshasa, main port road cut**
Torrential rains that fell across parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in particular the capital, Kinshasa, have left at least 33 dead and tens of thousands affected as the river broke its banks and flooded large sections of the overcrowded city. Reports said the main roads to the port of Matadi and to the international airport have been blocked by the rising water, and elsewhere shops, businesses and homes are flooded. “The republic will not abandon you,” DRC President Félix Tshisekedi is reported to have told citizens of the city of more than 17 million, though it was no clear what the government could do for areas of low-lying land on which people have randomly built. Read more…
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## **UNTU hits back at Transnet wage settlement claim**
A fresh dispute has erupted in Transnet’s ongoing wage negotiations, with the United National Transport Union (UNTU) accusing the state-owned logistics company of bypassing proper collective bargaining processes. On Monday, UNTU, which represents the majority of Transnet workers, announced that it had successfully challenged an attempt by Transnet to unilaterally implement a wage settlement signed last week with the smaller South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU). Read more…
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## **WHARF TALK: Expeditionary Mobile Base vessel – USS LEWIS B PULLER (ESB-3)**
Every now and again an unusual vessel arrives, unexpectedly, off a South African port. This is especially so in these last 18 months, and mostly all courtesy of the Houthi idiocy. The majority of these arrivals are of those classes of vessel that the casual maritime observer very rarely gets a chance to glimpse. What is not seen is a vessel whose arrival is not necessarily linked to the Houthi madness, but whose arrival is still a surprise, but more so of a geopolitical nature. There was a time, especially so during the various outbreaks of the Gulf War, and during the Afghanistan conflict, post 9-11, that military vessels belonging to the nations involved in those conflicts were regular callers in South African ports, all due to logistical requirements. Read more…
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## **Red Sea mission marks new era in naval surveillance for Combined Maritime Forces**
In a landmark operation, Combined Maritime Forces (CMF 153) has completed its first sustained uncrewed surveillance mission in the Red Sea, deploying four uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) on a continuous 50-day patrol covering nearly half of the strategically vital waterway. Led by Australia’s Combined Task Force (CTF) 153, the patrol marked a significant step forward in integrating autonomous systems into frontline maritime security operations. The USVs, supplied by the U.S. Navy’s Task Force 59 – a unit focused on uncrewed systems and …. Read more…
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## **TNPA seeks operator for a liquid bulk terminal at Cape Town port**
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has announced a call for proposals to appoint a new Liquid Bulk Terminal Operator at the Port of Cape Town. The operator will be responsible for managing the handling of edible oils and compatible cargo at a key site within the port’s Liquid Bulk Precinct. The site, earmarked for brownfield development, spans 6,289 square metres and is strategically located with access to the Tanker Basin’s common-user berths. It currently handles high-flash products such as molasses and vegetable oils, with operations involving both vessel and road tanker deliveries. Read more…
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## WHARF TALK: cruise ship – **AIDAprima**
The normal time to see the big megaliners in South African ports is twofold. First up, at the start of the season are, at least in terms of today’s dangerous geopolitics, two types of visit. The first are those megaliners carrying out their positioning voyage at the end of the European cruising season, and heading for their warm winter base, normally in the Gulf regions. The second type are those on the big round the world cruise and transiting from the warm ports of the northern hemisphere, to the warm ports of the southern hemisphere. Read more…
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## **Indian Navy intercepts drug-smuggling dhow in Arabian Sea**
The Indian Navy’s Talwar class frigate INS Tarkash has seized more than 2 500 kilograms of narcotics in the western Indian Ocean while deployed as part of Combined Task Force 150. On 31 March, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received multiple inputs from Indian Navy P8I maritime patrol aircraft, regarding suspicious vessels operating in the area. These vessels were believed to be involved in illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking. In response, the INS Tarkash altered its course to intercept. After interrogating suspicious vessels in the vicinity, INS Tarkash intercepted and boarded a suspect dhow, owing to the coordinated efforts with the P8I and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai. Read more…
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## **MSC Magnifica to make maiden calls in South Africa and Namibia on 2025 World Cruise**
MSC Magnifica will this week visit South Africa and Namibia for the first time as part of her 2025 World Cruise, marking a significant milestone for MSC Cruises. The ship will call at Port Elizabeth on 14 April, Cape Town on 16 April, and Walvis Bay in Namibia on 18 April. To celebrate these inaugural calls, MSC Cruises South Africa will host a series of special onboard events, including traditional crest exchange ceremonies that symbolize goodwill and strengthen ties with local port authorities and communities. Read more…
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## **Stena Line Unveils Stena Futuro: A Next-Generation Vessel with 20%+ Energy Savings**
Stena Line has revealed a groundbreaking new vessel concept, the Stena Futuro, which promises to reduce energy usage by more than 20%. This innovative design aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals, including a commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030. The Stena Futuro is a 240-metre-long RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessel, specifically designed to transport semi-trailers and cars. It represents a key step in the company’s ongoing effort to decarbonize its fleet, which includes both improving the efficiency of existing ships and developing new vessels with cutting-edge technology. Read more…
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## **Veson Nautical Shipping Market Outlook for Q2 2025 Forecast**
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the resulting rerouting have disrupted shipping markets to varying degrees. A sudden end to rerouting poses considerable downside risks for the shipping industry, while a prolonged extension could offer substantial upside potential. Sanctions contribute to this uncertain environment, where any major escalation or de-escalation could significantly affect the global economic outlook. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the US’ proposed tariffs, as any counter measures could impact the global shipping sector and lead to reduced international trade and sustained higher inflation. Read more…
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## **Back to the airship as Kuehne+Nagel joins those on board**
Global logistics and freight industry leaders collaborate on Airlander’s future role in heavy-lift transport and disaster relief. Key players from the global logistics and freight sectors are teaming up with Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd (HAV) to explore the potential use of larger Airlander variants, a new generation of aircraft designed for heavy-lift transportation. The initiative, known as the Airlander Futures Network, brings together industry leaders, including logistics giant Kuehne+Nagel and Oregon’s Department of Human Services’ Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, to help shape the future of the Airlander family. The collaboration will guide the design and specification of future Airlander aircraft, which could scale to carry up to 200 tonnes. Read more…
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## **Maritime industry associations release new BMP Maritime Security Publication to address rising global threats**
A group of leading maritime industry associations, including BIMCO, ICS, IMCA, INTERCARGO, INTERTANKO, and OCIMF, supported by over forty maritime stakeholders, has launched a consolidated and enhanced edition of the Best Management Practices (BMP) for Maritime Security (MS). This interactive, online publication is designed to provide seafarers and maritime professionals with a comprehensive resource to navigate the evolving landscape of maritime security threats. Available to view on the industry website, the updated BMP Maritime Security consolidates regional security guidelines into one unified publication, offering actionable insights, advice, and an easy-to-navigate structure. Read more…
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## **SA unveils strategic economic diversification plan amid US tariffs**
South Africa has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the economic impact of new United States tariffs, focusing on export diversification, value-added production, and strengthening regional trade partnerships. This is after United States President, Donald Trump, announced global reciprocal tariffs on most imported goods, with South Africa facing a 31% tariff increase. “The new tariff regime arising from the decision by the United States of America, which have been directed not only to South Africa, but the entire world, necessitates strategic responses to maintain and grow our industrial base, as a crucial avenue to pursue inclusive growth,” the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, said on Friday. Read more…
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## **WHARF TALK: PCTC – CMA CGM SILVERSTONE**
The big Asian carriers, especially those in South Korea, Japan and China, enjoy dipping their toes into virtually every trade that crisscrosses the globe, so having the likes of Hyundai, NYK, and COSCO running various fleets such as container vessels, as well as pure car carriers, is something that the casual maritime observer has got used to seeing. What the same observer has probably not seen is having a big European container vessel operator dipping their toes into the pure car carrier market, and entering the trade against the established operators. Read more…
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## **Hapag-Lloyd to retrofit five large container ships for methanol fuel**
In a significant move towards greener shipping, German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd has announced plans to retrofit five of its 10,100 TEU container vessels to run on methanol. The initiative, undertaken in partnership with Seaspan Corporation and MAN Energy Solutions, marks a crucial step in the company’s long-term decarbonization strategy. The decision follows a successful test of a retrofitted MAN S90 engine conducted by MAN Energy Solutions and Hitachi Zosen Marine Engine in Japan. This breakthrough has demonstrated that large container ships can effectively transition from traditional fossil fuels to methanol, a more sustainable alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions. Read more…
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## **‘Liberation Day’ tariffs will ‘change the rules of game’ for global trade – Xeneta**
Reciprocal tariffs announced by Donald Trump on ‘Liberation Day’ could prevent shippers from making important decisions on supply chains, but are not likely to cause an immediate spike in freight rates. “Liberation Day will not feel very liberating for those shippers caught in the eye of the tariff storm,” said Peter Sand, Chief Analyst at Xeneta – the ocean and air freight intelligence platform. “It is tough to make important decisions on your supply chain when the rules of the game keep changing.” Read more…
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News continues below
**FIRST VIEW – Ships in port**
The tanker Bellatrix (IMO 9987756) arriving at Durban 5 April 2025. Picture by Benny Janse van Rensburg
**by Terry Hutson
Pictures by Benny Janse van Rensburg
****_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**The port of Durban received a total of 2,880 ship calls during 2024, including all types but excluding naval vessels.**
This is 31.3% of the total ship calls in South African ports, meaning that the port of Durban is handling almost one third of South African shipping based on ship call numbers.
This is of course a statistic that doesn’t explain that a number of these ships will also call at other SA ports, in particular the container and car carrier vessels. Nevertheless it provides an overall picture of how busy the port is in ratio to the other seven.
To break down the numbers, General cargo vessels totalled 196, Bulk carriers 666, Container ships 736, Tankers 646, Passenger ships (cruise) 77, Car Carriers 218, Coasters 41 and ‘others’ (unspecified) 6.
The bulk carrier Federal Fraser (IMO 9866744) at the T-Jetty the port of Durban, 5 April 2025. Picture by Benny Janse van Rensburg
The port also handled Local trawlers 170, Foreign trawlers 52 and Miscellaneous vessels 72 to provide the total of 2,880. The description of trawlers covers all types of fishing vessels but not recreational.
Containers handled at the port at DCT1, DCT2, the Point and at Maydon Wharf totalled 2.650 million TEUs, or 61.57% of the country’s total.
Motor vehicles handled at the Durban Car Terminal totalled 522,936 or 67% of the national total.
Tankers calling at the port handled 21.599 million tonnes of liquid bulk, or 60.2% of the total liquid bulk handled at SA ports.
The container ship MSC Araina III (IMO 9345984) at Durban Point, 5 April 2025. Picture by Benny Janse van Rensburg
When it comes to bulk cargo, the substantial number of calls by bulk carriers raises the obvious question as to why the port authorities have decided with the current Port Master Plan that bulk cargo must be transferred to Richards Bay, ostensibly to enable Durban to focus on containers, motor vehicles and tankers.
If 23% of your current ship calls (666 of 2,880) consist of bulk carriers then why would anyone want to remove that commodity away to another ‘rival’ port?
It can be argued that the cargo carried by these bulkers makes up just 8.1% of the total bulk tonnage of SA ports. But deduct the total bulk cargo handled by the two specialist ports of Richards Bay and Saldanha and we are left with 31.68 tons of bulk handled by the remaining ports. Durban’s share of that then becomes 43% (13.65mt).
It’s known that Transnet sees the ports as complementary rather than as rivals and to a degree that is correct but running a successful business also involves responding to customers’ requirements and needs.
Based on the current bulk carrier numbers and volumes it suggests that the port of Durban should continue catering for bulk carrier calls into the future. What do you think?
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
Added 6 April 2025
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**Coral Sul FLNG achieves historic milestone of 100 LNG shipments**
In this striking picture, the FLNG named Coral Sul is seen with a tanker alongside loading LNG for export to customers worldwide. Picture courtesy ENI
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**The Coral Sul Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) platform, as referred to in the next article below, and operated by Italy’s Eni, has reached a remarkable milestone in its journey of producing and exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG).**
On Saturday 5 April, the platform celebrated its 100th shipment of LNG, marking a significant achievement in Mozambique’s energy sector.
Anchored in ultra-deep waters off Cabo Delgado, the Coral Sul FLNG has been exporting LNG weekly since November 2022. This milestone underscores the project’s commitment to producing and liquefying natural gas with optimal safety standards, providing a cleaner and reliable energy source to the global market.
The shipments primarily cater to Asia, showcasing Mozambique’s growing role in the global energy transition.
Nazário Bangalane, Chairman of the National Petroleum Institute (INP), highlighted the project’s success in delivering a national resource while fostering Mozambican participation in the energy chain.
He emphasized the project’s contribution to a safer, more inclusive energy transition, benefiting both Mozambique and the world.
The Coral Sul FLNG project is operated by Eni on behalf of Mozambique Rovuma Venture (MRV), a consortium comprising ExxonMobil, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), ENH, Galp, and South Korean company Kogas.
The platform is the first FLNG facility in Africa and operates at a water depth of over 2,000 meters, making it a technological marvel.
## **Additional Insights into Coral Sul FLNG:**
The Coral Sul FLNG was constructed by Samsung Heavy Industries in South Korea and began operations in mid-2022.
It has a gas liquefaction capacity of approximately 3.4 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and taps into the Coral South gas field, which holds an estimated 16 trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas.
The project represents a significant step in Mozambique’s energy journey, contributing to global energy security while leveraging local resources.
As the concessionaire and its partners explore expansion opportunities to enhance gas recovery levels in Area 4, the Coral Sul FLNG continues to symbolize Mozambique’s potential in meeting the world’s clean energy demands.
This milestone is not just a testament to technological excellence but also a beacon of hope for sustainable energy solutions.
Added 11 April 2025
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**Italian Navy frigate Luigi Rizzo bolsters Mozambique ties with port call and new agreements**
The Italian Navy frigate Luigi Rizzo (F595) that visited Maputo during the week. Picture: Italian Embassy Maputo
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**On 8 April 8 2025, the Italian Navy frigate Luigi Rizzo F595 docked in Maputo for a four-day visit, marking a significant moment in Italy-Mozambique relations.**
The four-day stopover, part of the EU-led EUNAVFOR Atalanta operation, precedes the frigate’s mission to safeguard commercial shipping in the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean, areas plagued by piracy and maritime threats.
During the visit, Italy and Mozambique signed a military cooperation agreement, announced on 10 April by Italian military attaché Franco Linzalone.
This deal, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, outlines joint training, capacity building, and potential expansion to other armed forces sectors.
The agreement aims to enhance Mozambique’s ability to counter maritime threats like piracy and illegal trafficking, with the Italian Navy recently thwarting two pirate attacks in the Horn of Africa region.
“This strengthens Mozambique’s operational capacity to secure its waters,” said Operation Atalanta commander Davide Da Pozzo.
While visiting Mozambique, the Luigi Rizzo conducted a joint simulation with the Mozambican Navy, showcasing maritime interdiction techniques crucial for protecting trade routes and local fishermen.
Off the water, the crew engaged in community activities, including rugby matches with Mozambican youth, fostering goodwill.
Italy’s ambassador, Gabriele Annis, reaffirmed Italy’s support for Mozambique’s reforms under Daniel Chapo’s government and its role in the national peace process via the Sant’Egidio Community, which mediated the Rome Accords ending Mozambique’s civil war.
The visit also spotlighted a major Italian investment: Eni’s Coral Norte project, a $7.56 billion offshore venture approved by Mozambique’s government.
A similar Italian investment, the Coral Sul (Coral South) project is well underway and recently saw the 100th successful shipment of LNG from the FLNG a anchor off northern Mozambique. See our report above for details.
Annis hailed these as a vote of confidence in Mozambique’s economy, predicting significant revenue growth and industrial development.
The Luigi Rizzo’s visit to Maputo underscores a deepening partnership, blending security cooperation, economic investment, and cultural exchange to address shared challenges and opportunities.
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**Trump thinks tariffs can bring back the glory days of US manufacturing. Here’s why he’s wrong**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **James Scott, _King’s College London_**
**The “liberation day” tariffs announced by US president Donald Trump have one thing in common – they are being applied to goods only. Trade in services between the US and its partners is not affected. This is the perfect example of Trump’s peculiar focus on trade in goods and, by extension, his nostalgic but outdated obsession with manufacturing.**
The fallout from liberation day continues, with markets down around the world. The decision to apply tariffs on a country-by-country basis means that rules about where a product is deemed to come from are now of central importance.
The stakes for getting it wrong could be high. Trump has threatened that anyone seeking to avoid tariffs by shifting the supposed origin of a product to a country with lower rates could face a ten-year jail term.
The White House initially refused to specify how it came up with the tariff levels. But it appears that each country’s rate was arrived at by taking the US goods trade deficit with that country, dividing it by the value of that country’s goods exports to the US and then halving it, with 10% set as the minimum.
It has been noted that this is effectively the approach suggested by AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude and Grok when asked how to create “an even playing field”.
Economically, Trump’s fixation on goods makes no sense. This view is not unique to the president (though he feels it unusually strongly). There is a broader fetishisation of manufacturing in many countries. One theory is that it is potentially ingrained in human thinking by pre-historic experiences of finding food, fuel and shelter dominating all other activities.
But for Trump, the thinking is likely related to a combination of nostalgia for a bygone (somewhat imagined) age of manufacturing, and concern over the loss of quality jobs that provide a solid standard of living for blue collar workers – a core part of his political base.
Nostalgia is not a sensible basis for forming economic policy. But the role emotions play in international affairs has been receiving more attention. It has been identified as an “emotional turn” (where the importance of emotion is recognised) in the discipline of international relations.
Of course, that’s not to say that the concern over jobs and the unequal effects of globalisation is misplaced. It is clear that blue-collar workers have suffered in the US (and elsewhere) for the last 40 to 50 years, with governments paying little attention to the decline.
Data on weekly earnings in the US split by educational level show that wages for those without a degree have declined or stagnated since around 1973, particularly among men. This is the cohort that disproportionately voted for Trump. Globalisation has created many benefits, not least to the United States, but these tend to be concentrated among the better educated.
All too often the service-sector jobs that have filled the gap left by declining manufacturing have been precarious. That means low wages, low security, lack of union representation and few opportunities for moving up the ladder. It is unsurprising that there has been a backlash.
## Can’t turn back the clock
So will Trump’s tariffs plan address this? The great tragedy is that there is little reason to think that they will.
The loss of manufacturing jobs is partly about globalisation, which Trump is seeking to reverse. But research shows that trade and globalisation are often more of a scapegoat than a driving force, responsible for only a small chunk of job losses (typically said to be about 10%).
The main cause of manufacturing’s decline is rising productivity. Today it simply requires fewer people to make goods due to the relentless increase in automation and the associated rise in how much each worker produces.
If the whole US trade deficit were rebalanced through expanding domestic industries, this would increase the share of manufacturing employment within the US by about one percentage point, from about 8% today to 9% according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics figures. This is not going to be transformative.
The effects of tariffs are also doubled-edged. They will probably shift some manufacturing back to the US – but this could be self-defeating. More US steel production is good for workers, but the higher cost of US steel feeds through to higher prices for the products manufactured with it.
This includes the cars Trump obsesses about. Less competitive prices means lower exports and a loss of jobs. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away.
The 1950s were a unique time. By the end of the second world war, the US was a manufacturing powerhouse, accounting for one third of the world’s exports while taking only around a tenth of its imports.
There were few other industrialised countries at the time, and these had been flattened by the war. The US alone had avoided this, creating a world of massive demand for US exports since nowhere else had a significant manufacturing base. That was never going to last forever.
The other point about that time in history is that the economic system had been shaped by colonialism. European powers had used their position of power to prevent the rest of the world from industrialising. As those empires were dismantled and the shackles came off, those newly independent countries began their own processes of industrialisation.
As for the US today, President Trump is mistaken if he really believes that tariffs will bring a new golden age of manufacturing. The world has changed.
**James Scott, Reader in International Politics, _King’s College London_**
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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**SAMSA launches nationwide fishing vessel safety audit**
SAMSA recently conducted a safety audit of fishing vessel in Port Elizabeth. Picture: SAMSA
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has commenced a comprehensive Fishing Vessel Safety Audit to ensure compliance with safety regulations in the country’s commercial fishing sector.**
This initiative follows tragic maritime incidents in 2024, which claimed the lives of 18 fishers as was reported here in **_Africa_ Ports & Ships.**
Mandated by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, the audit spans four months and covers major fishing ports nationwide.
Inspections began at the Port of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) from 3 to 7 March 2025, with SAMSA officials engaging vessel owners, crew, and industry representatives to assess compliance and emergency preparedness.
At the launch event in Gqeberha on 5 March 2025, attended by key SAMSA leaders, Acting CEO Mbalenhle Golding emphasised the importance of the initiative, saying it underscores SAMSA’s commitment to saving lives, protecting property, and preserving the marine environment.
Fishing vessel operators are urged to cooperate with audit teams as SAMSA continues its work to enhance safety standards and prevent future maritime tragedies.
### **Fishing Vessel Safety Initiative goals**
The Fishing Vessel Safety Initiative launched by SAMSA aims to achieve several key objectives:
* **Ensuring Compliance: Assessing whether South Africa’s commercial fishing vessels meet safety regulations.**
* **Improving Emergency Preparedness: Evaluating readiness to respond effectively to maritime emergencies.**
* **Identifying Risks: Spotting potential safety hazards to prevent accidents.**
* **Enhancing Safety Standards: Shaping a robust Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan for the industry.**
* **Reducing Maritime Accidents: Taking proactive measures to prevent future tragedies.**
SAMSA has emphasised collaboration between vessel operators, crews, and stakeholders to create a safer and more resilient fishing sector.
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**Folk Maritime expands regional operations with acquisition of M/V Folk Jazan**
Folk Maritime’s latest ship, the container vessel Folk Jazan. Picture: Folk Maritime
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**Folk Maritime Services, a Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has strengthened its presence in the Red Sea with the acquisition of its second owned vessel, M/V Folk Jazan (IMO 9339856).**
The ship, now registered at Jeddah Islamic Port, has been deployed across routes in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf as part of the company’s expanding regional operations.
The 2015-TEU capacity vessel, built in 2008 by Zhejiang Shipbuilding Co., enhances Folk Maritime’s ability to provide reliable feeder and liner services and supports Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global logistics hub under Vision 2030.
“This is a pivotal step in our growth,” said CEO Poul Hestbaek. “Folk Jazan boosts our capacity, operational flexibility, and commitment to advancing Saudi Arabia’s maritime infrastructure.”
Folk Maritime launched operations in April 2024 and is quickly building a fleet of Saudi-flagged container vessels, following the acquisition of Folk Jeddah (IMO 9939888) last September.
With a fleet now totaling six ships, the company is focused on reinforcing regional maritime connectivity and accelerating trade across the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf corridors.
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**WTO – A pillar of security and predictability**
Picture: per www.wto.org WTO ©
**Edited by Paul Ridgway **
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**London**
**Speaking at the Global Outlook: Navigating Trade & Investment Trends in 2025 conference co-hosted by the World Trade Centers Association and the Washington International Trade Association (WITA) on 8 April in Marseille, WTO Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard emphasized the enduring value of the multilateral trading system.**
She also urged business and governments to use the WTO platform to navigate today’s turbulent economic landscape.
Addressing an audience of trade and investment professionals, DDG Ellard underscored the WTO’s importance in providing security and predictability for businesses worldwide.
She noted: ‘The WTO has helped reduce the share of people living in extreme poverty from 40% in 1995 to under 11% in 2022.’
### **Beyond tariffs**
Ellard highlighted that the WTO’s work extends well beyond tariffs. From streamlining customs procedures and promoting digital trade to enforcing intellectual property rights and ensuring food safety rules are based on science, the WTO provides a framework that underpins cross-border commerce for its 166 members.
She cautioned, however, that the system is under strain. The WTO Secretariat’s preliminary analysis suggests that recent tariff measures by the United States and others could lead to a contraction of global merchandise trade volumes of around 1% this year — a significant downward revision of nearly four percentage points from earlier projections.
### **Worth preserving**
At the same time, she stressed that the WTO remains relevant, noting that despite new trade measures, 74% of global trade still flows under WTO Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) terms. She emphasized that this demonstrates the multilateral system continues to function effectively and is worth preserving.
The DDG called for a level-headed approach, underscoring the need for calm and cooperation in today’s turbulent environment. She urged members to use WTO tools, including its committees and the dispute settlement system, for addressing trade concerns.
Calling on businesses to advocate for the rules-based system she added: “There is an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation to work through issues, including at the WTO.”
### **About WTO**
The World Trade Organization (WTO) deals with the global rules of trade between nations. Its main function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably and freely as possible.
WTO is the only global international organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations. At its heart are the WTO agreements, negotiated and signed by the bulk of the world’s trading nations and ratified in their parliaments. The goal is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably and freely as possible.
### **Thirty years expanding trade**
The Marrakesh Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization was signed by 123 countries on 15 April 1994, leading to the birth of the WTO (formerly GATT) on 1 January 1995.
Over the past 30 years, the WTO has helped to bring about a major expansion in global trade, with the objective of raising living standards, increasing employment and promoting sustainable development.
For more see **here**.
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**Transnet unveils R60 million upgrade to East London port, boosting automotive hub status**
The Port of East London Car Terminal, now revamped with 550 metres of -10.5m depth quayside The road leading from the roof of the car terminal building at left of the photo leads directly into the Mercedes Benz factory up on the hill. Picture courtesy TNPA
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **The Port of East London is poised for a major transformation following the completion of a R60 million upgrade to its automotive terminal berth, courtesy of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).**
The project, which deepened and reinforced the berth, promises to enhance efficiency, expand capacity, and significantly increase the port’s ability to handle automotive exports.
The upgrade has standardized the depth of all berths along the West Quay to -10.5 metres (Chart Datum) across a total length of 550 metres. This improvement eliminates previous inconsistencies and doubles the port’s design capacity to 790,000 automotive units annually.
Transnet says the revamped infrastructure now allows two of the world’s largest pure car carriers — vessels exceeding 200 metres in length — to dock simultaneously, a game-changer for the facility.
The investment cements the Port of East London’s role as a vital cog in South Africa’s automotive industry. In 2024 the port processed 78,279 motor units, underscoring its importance as a gateway for vehicle exports.
The project aligns with TNPA’s broader Capital Investment Programme, which aims to modernise infrastructure and sharpen the competitiveness of South Africa’s port operations.
Speaking at the berth’s commissioning ceremony, Acting TNPA Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto hailed the upgrade as a milestone.
“The commissioning of this automotive terminal berth unlocks the port’s potential as a critical link in the transport network, ready to meet global shipping demands,” she said.
“It’s an opportunity for increased investment and positions East London to serve the global economy effectively.”
The project, which took 15 months to complete, also delivered an economic boost to the region, creating around 50 direct and indirect jobs in construction, supply chains, and security services.
It supports Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Mercedes Benz in East London and BMW in Pretoria by improving access to efficient transport networks—key to sustaining the automotive sector’s growth.
## **U.S. tariffs**
However, the timing of the upgrade raises questions about its long-term impact. The recent decision by the United States to impose a 25% tariff on all motor vehicle imports has cast uncertainty over Transnet’s plans to ramp up exports through the Eastern Cape.
With the U.S. market historically a major destination for vehicles assembled at plants like Mercedes Benz and BMW, the tariff could prompt a rethink of export strategies.
Until now, these assembly plants have relied heavily on U.S. demand, and the deepened N-Berth was partly designed to support that trade.
Transnet’s leadership will need to navigate this new reality, potentially pivoting to alternative markets or doubling down on regional exports to maximize the port’s enhanced capacity.
Still, the upgrade reflects Transnet’s commitment to aligning its operations with South Africa’s strategic economic sectors. By delivering infrastructure tailored to industry needs, the port is better equipped to drive economic growth in the region and beyond, even as global trade dynamics shift.
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**WHARF TALK: expeditionary cruise ship – HEBBRIDEAN SKY**
The expeditionary cruise vessel Hebridean Sky arriving in Cape Town on 30 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
**Pictures by ‘Dockrat’**
**Story by Jay Gates**
**With the current procession of the megaliners heading north to Europe at the end of their winter cruise seasons, as well as the traditionally large cruise liners passing through on their world tours, one tends to forget the other end of the market that is also attracted to South African shores, also at this time of year.**
This is especially so as it is now at the end of the season of exploration. Whether it be the expeditionary cruises to Antarctica, or to the out of the way spots in out of the way places, there are specialist passenger vessels that have been designed for exactly that market. One tends to forget that not everybody wants a simple cruise with lying out on deck in continuous warm weather, a pool to dip in, a stable platform, and all to be shared with 3,000 other folk.
There are plenty of travelers out there who want the complete opposite, and are more than happy to pay for the privilege of it. That said, the casual maritime observer only gets to see such expeditionary cruise liners, either at the start of the Antarctic cruise season, in the Austral Spring, as they position southwards, or at the end of the expeditionary season when returning from Antarctica, or from the remote places in the Indian Ocean, and like the big boys, heading back north to start the expeditionary cruise season in the Arctic, and other remote spots.
On 30th March, at 09:00 in the morning, the expeditionary cruise vessel **‘Hebridean Sky’ IMO 8802882) **arrived off Cape Town, from Port Elizabeth, which indicated she was not a returning Antarctic expedition vessel, but rather an Indian Ocean expedition vessel. She entered Cape Town harbour, and proceeded into the Duncan Dock, but due to two other passenger cruise vessels arriving at the same time, including another expedition vessel, she was not directed to the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth, but instead to the outer berth of the Eastern Mole.
The expeditionary cruise vessel Hebridean Sky arriving in Cape Town on 30 March 2025, together with a second expeditionary cruise vessel, Le Bougainville. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
One has to question the lack of joined up thinking that Transnet berthing planners in Cape Town have. On arrival, ‘Hebridean Sky’ joined another special visitor that has also been sent to the remote Eastern Mole, but from a berth that she had been occupying in the V&A. This other special vessel was the tall ship ‘Oosterschelde’, which had arrived on the Charles Darwin reenactment world cruise, and had been berthed at Jetty No.2 in the V&A.
She was then removed to the Eastern Mole, a day later, to make way for the other expeditionary cruise vessel, ‘Le Bougainville’, that has arrived at the same time as ‘Hebridean Sky’. Once that vessel sailed the next day from the V&A, ‘Oosterschelde’ was sent back to Jetty No.2. One might ask why? Especially if ‘Hebridean Sky’ was not given the same treatment. And why move another special visitor, just to make way for another lesser one, just for one day?
As for the subject of this article, ‘Hebridean Sky’ was built back in 1991 by the Nuovi Cantieri Apuania SpA shipyard at Marina di Carrara in Italy. She is 91 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of 4,200 tons. She is powered by two MAN-B&W Holeby 8L28/32AF main engines producing 2,400 bhp (1,760 kW) each, and driving a pair of MAN Alpha controllable pitch propellers for a service speed of 14.5 knots.
Hebridean Sky. Cape Town, 30 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
Her auxiliary machinery includes two MAN-B&W 5L28/32A generators producing 1,000 kW each, and a single emergency generator producing 240 kW. She has a single Alfa Laval Aalborg CHO composite boiler, and for additional manoeuvrability she has a single bow Brunvoll FP transverse thruster producing 364 kW.
For her expeditionary requirements ‘Hebridean Sky’ has an ice classification of ICE 1C, which allows her to navigate in first year Baltic Sea ice with a thickness of 0.4 metres.
She has seven decks, of which five are for passenger use, and has a total of just 59 cabins, all of which are outside cabins, and of which 14 of them have balconies. Her five passenger decks invoke her expeditionary spirit, as they all are named after golden age Antarctic explorers. From top to bottom, and in alphabetical order, they are named Shackleton, Scott, Mawson, Byrd, and Amundsen, and ‘Hebridean Sky’ can carry a maximum of just 120 passengers, who are looked after by a crew of 72.
Hebridean Sky. Cape Town, 30 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
As a small expeditionary cruise vessel, she does not have a great deal of facilities, but includes one of everything, with a restaurant, a lounge, a bar lounge, café, library, beauty salon, gymnasium, and a Jacuzzi whirlpool. For real swimming, she has a platform at her stern for ocean dips, and which is also used to launch and retrieve her fleet of Zodiac boats, which are used to ferry her passengers ashore at the remote locations that she visits. For added passenger comfort at sea ‘Hebridean Sky’ is fitted with twin Rolls-Royce stabiliser fins.
She was the third of a series of four sisterships, all built for the now defunct Renaissance Cruises, and all given the same, simple, Renaissance name followed by a Roman numeral, with ‘Hebridean Sky’ being launched as ‘Renaissance VII’, the seventh addition to the Renaissance Cruises fleet. Since then she has been renamed a number of times, this being her eighth name.
Hebridean Sky. Cape Town, 30 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
Nominally owned by Hebridean Sky Shipping Incorporated, of Nassau in the Bahamas, ‘Hebridean Sky’ is operated by Noble Caledonia Cruises Ltd., of London in the United Kingdom. She is managed by Salén Ship Management AB, of Gothenburg in Sweden, and carries the famous Salén logo on her funnel. There will be some casual maritime observers who well remember the beautiful white Salén reefers calling at South African ports during the fruit export season.
She, and all of her sisterships, still sail on expeditionary cruise routes, despite them all being over thirty years of age, with one of the four sisterships also owned by the current same owner, namely ‘Island Sky’ (ex Renaissance VIII), which was a visitor to South African ports in early April 2023, when she called into Cape Town from Tristan da Cunha, en route back from Antarctica, and then sailed up the South African coast, calling at all the coastal ports of Mossel Bay, Port Elizabeth, East London, Durban, and Richards Bay, on a positioning cruise back to Europe, but via East Africa and the Suez Canal, in the normal shipping era before the Houthi menace began.
Her current voyage, culminating in her call at Cape Town, had begun from a cruise around the Indian coast, before heading across to the Seychelles, and Madagascar, before arriving at Richards Bay on 23rd March. She sailed from Richards Bay on 25th March for Durban, where she spent 27th March, before heading to Port Elizabeth for a day stop on 28th March, before her call at the Mother City on 30th March.
Hebridean Sky. Cape Town, 30 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
Her stay in Cape Town included two nights, allowing her passengers plenty of time to enjoy the delights of the city, the Cape Peninsula, and the Cape Winelands, and for her fly/cruise passengers to complete their changeover. On 1st April, at 15:00 in the afternoon, ‘Hebridean Sky’ sailed from Cape Town, now bound for Lüderitz in Namibia.
Her departure from Cape Town was the start of her positioning voyage back to Europe with the itinerary of Cape Town- Lüderitz- Walvis Bay- São Tiago- São Vicente (both Cape Verde Islands)- La Palma- El Hierro- Tenerife (all Canary Islands)- Essaouira- Casablanca (both Morocco)- Gibraltar, where the cruise will terminate on 28th April. She then conducts a short set of Mediterranean cruises until early June, before heading to the UK and Northern Europe for the remainder of the summer cruise season.
Both of the Noble Caledonia Cruises sisterships will return to South African shores in the next year or two, with ‘Island Sky’ due back in late October 2025 cruising from West Africa, via all South African ports, en route to the Seychelles, and ‘Hebridean Sky’ will return to South African shores in late December 2026, also cruising from West Africa towards the Indian Ocean. These visits will please those casual maritime observers who prefer the beauty of the small expeditionary cruise vessel over the sometimes vulgar, and vast, block of flats appearance of some of the modern megaliners.
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**Transnet seeks partner for new rail leasing venture to boost South Africa’s freight Network**
A heavy-haul coal train approaching near the port of Richards Bay. Picture: Keith Betts
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport company, has taken a significant step toward reforming the country’s rail system by launching a search for a private sector partner to establish a new rolling stock leasing company, dubbed “LeaseCo.”**
The company announced the move with the release of a Request for Qualification (RFQ), marking the beginning of a competitive selection process.
LeaseCo is set to play a pivotal role in revitalizing South Africa’s rail network by acquiring, managing, and leasing locomotives and wagons to rail operators in both domestic and regional markets.
The initiative is a cornerstone of Transnet’s broader rail reform program, which aims to boost the efficiency and competitiveness of the nation’s freight system.
At the heart of these reforms is a plan to separate rail infrastructure management from train operations—a move designed to create a level playing field for public and private operators alike.
By partnering with the private sector, Transnet hopes to attract fresh investment, diversify its revenue streams, and leverage its existing assets and technical expertise to drive growth.
The creation of LeaseCo is expected to address a critical need: ensuring that train operating companies have reliable access to rolling stock. This, in turn, is seen as key to unlocking the rail network’s potential to support economic development and strengthen supply chains across the region.
Interested parties have until 4 July 2025, to submit their RFQ applications. Those who make the shortlist will advance to the Request for Proposal (RFP) phase, slated to begin in August 2025.
With this timeline in place, Transnet is signaling its commitment to fast-tracking the partnership and getting LeaseCo off the ground.
The move comes as part of a broader push to modernise South Africa’s freight transport system, which has long been hampered by inefficiencies.
If successful, LeaseCo could pave the way for a more dynamic and competitive rail industry, benefiting businesses and the economy at large.
## **How to apply?**
The RFQ documents can be accessed from the **Transnet e-tender portal**.
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**Tariffs on S.A. citrus will damage both S.A. and the U.S., says CGA**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
## **Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) gives dire warning**
**The countdown is on: starting tomorrow, Wednesday 9 April 2025, a 30% tariff on South African citrus exports to the U.S. will come into effect, putting both the South African citrus industry and rural communities at risk.**
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has expressed alarm over the potential impact, calling on the South African government to take immediate action and engage in negotiations with the U.S. to reduce or exempt these tariffs.
While only 5-6% of South Africa’s citrus exports go to the U.S., many rural towns, particularly in the Western and Northern Cape, are heavily dependent on this trade. Citrusdal, a prime example, could face severe economic fallout, with the potential for widespread job losses or even the collapse of the local economy.
Gerrit van der Merwe, CGA Chairperson and citrus grower in the Olifants River Valley, emphasized that approximately 35,000 jobs are directly or indirectly tied to the export of South African citrus to the U.S.
“These tariffs will make our citrus uncompetitive in the U.S. market, especially considering South Africa’s competitors, mainly in South America, face only a 10% tariff,” he said.
“This means an additional $4.25 per carton for South African growers, severely impacting their ability to compete”
## **The Bigger Picture: Health, Economy, and U.S. Growers’ Interests**
The situation is not just a crisis for South African citrus farmers but also a broader issue for American consumers and growers alike. Boitshoko Ntshabele, CEO of CGA, stressed that South African citrus is a critical part of the U.S. market.
“South African citrus complements local U.S. production by filling the gap when American citrus is out of season, benefiting U.S. farmers,” he said.
Moreover, the tariff hikes threaten to raise prices for American consumers, who rely on affordable, healthy citrus options.
South Africa’s citrus export to the U.S. has been steadily growing, with shipments nearly doubling since 2017, reaching over 6.5 million cartons. This trade is also vital to the U.S. economy, with approximately 20,000 jobs tied to the citrus supply chain in the U.S.
## **Impending Disruption: Redirecting Citrus Exports**
As the tariffs take effect, South African citrus destined for the U.S. market will be diverted elsewhere, potentially destabilizing other markets.
“The U.S. volumes cannot be easily absorbed elsewhere at such short notice,” warned Ntshabele, highlighting the delicate balance of the global citrus supply chain.
Adding to the complexity, South Africa already faces steep tariffs in emerging markets like India and China. While the South African government is working to diversify export destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, the U.S. market remains a critical pillar for South African citrus growers.
The CGA was aiming to create 100,000 new jobs by 2032, with increased exports to the U.S. at the core of this strategy. Now, that future is uncertain.
## **Call to Action: Urgency for Diplomatic Efforts**
The situation is urgent. With the citrus season already underway and shipments ready to depart, there is little time left to prevent further economic damage. CGA leaders are calling on the South African government to urgently pursue a new trade agreement or tariff exemption with the U.S., as such agreements can take years to finalize.
“We are facing a double tragedy: potential job losses today, and the loss of future growth opportunities tomorrow,” said Ntshabele.
“The government must act now to safeguard the livelihoods of tens of thousands of workers and preserve South Africa’s position in the global citrus market.”
In these critical hours, the citrus industry and rural South African communities look to the government to intervene and prevent what could become a devastating blow to the nation’s agricultural sector.
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**Rangel Logistics invests €6 million to boost South Africa’s logistics sector and foster African growth**
Whitey Basson performing the honours of cutting the ribbon to officially open Rangel Logistics new warehouse
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **Rangel Logistics Solutions , a Portugal-based international logistics company, is strengthening its commitment to Africa with a significant €6 million (R125.6 million) investment in a new state-of-the-art warehouse in South Africa.**
**This expansion, located near OR Tambo International Airport, is part of Rangel’s broader strategy to capitalize on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement and support regional economic growth by enhancing logistical capabilities across the continent.**
## **Strategic Expansion and Job Creation**
The new 10,000 m² warehouse will serve as a central hub for Rangel’s expanding Contract Logistics services, offering a range of facilities, including bonded storage for goods up to 24 months and cross-docking services.
The move is set to create at least 160 new jobs, further solidifying Rangel’s role in South Africa’s growing logistics sector. Nuno Rangel, CEO of Rangel, emphasized the company’s dedication to the African market, noting that this investment is a key step toward fostering deeper trade connections within Southern Africa and beyond.
In addition to the new warehouse, Rangel will open a new office in Nakop, on the Namibian border, complementing its existing operations in Zambia and Tanzania. This expansion marks a significant step in the company’s broader strategy to become a leading logistics partner in Africa.
## **Leveraging AfCFTA for Regional Connectivity**
This new facility is poised to enhance Rangel’s ability to facilitate trade not only within South Africa but also across key regional markets such as Mozambique, Zambia, Angola, Tanzania, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
“Today, we are becoming a benchmark in transport for the mining sector in the main logistics corridors of the SADC region, from the DRC to the main ports – Durban, Beira, Walvis Bay and Dar es Salaam – carrying out highly demanding and complex operations, especially in the transport of copper (cathods, concentrate, blyster) cobalt hydroxide and zinc,” said Nuno Rangel.
The company has been particularly active in the transport of critical minerals, including copper and cobalt, which are vital to the mining sector across Southern Africa.
Rangel’s South African operations are a key part of its broader goal to connect the Southern African Development Community (SADC) with Europe. With the launch of the new warehouse, the company will be better equipped to manage demanding logistics operations and continue supporting the region’s growth, particularly in sectors like mining and manufacturing.
Nuno Rangel and the new warehouse located near OR Tambo International Airport
## **A Commitment to Africa’s Growth**
Since entering South Africa in 2020, Rangel has invested heavily in establishing a presence at major border points across the country. Its expanding footprint now includes four offices at key South African borders, as well as operations in Zambia and Tanzania.
These investments, which total €7 million across the three countries, have helped Rangel achieve substantial growth in the region, with South Africa now accounting for 8% of the company’s overall turnover.
Rangel’s commitment to Africa was further underscored at the warehouse launch ceremony, where Nuno Rangel spoke about the company’s vision to not only connect Africa with Europe but also to enhance trade across African borders.
The event, which was attended by notable figures such as former Shoprite CEO Whitey Basson and Portuguese diplomats, highlighted the enormous potential of the African market.
Basson, who had previously encouraged Nuno Rangel to explore investment opportunities in South Africa, shared his insights on the importance of strong logistics infrastructure for regional growth, citing his own experience with Shoprite’s success across the continent.
Basson also highlighted Africa’s growth prospects, with the continent’s GDP projected to rise by 4% by 2026, largely due to the AfCFTA. This agreement is expected to play a key role in boosting intra-African trade and further unlocking the continent’s economic potential.
From L to R: Afonso Laginha, Consul General of Portugal in Johannesburg, Carlos Costa Neves – Ambassador of Portugal in Pretoria, Whitey Basson, Nuno Rangle and Tiago Pocinho – Rangel Country Manager
## **Looking Ahead**
Rangel Logistics, founded in 1980, has steadily expanded its international footprint, establishing operations across nine countries in Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
With over 2,500 employees and 389,600 m² of logistics space, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on Africa’s growing logistics and trade opportunities.
Rangel’s investment in South Africa not only strengthens its regional presence but also solidifies its role as a crucial player in the continent’s logistics network.
The company’s success in South Africa and beyond serves as a testament to the potential of African markets, with Rangel’s commitment to regional development paving the way for greater trade, job creation, and economic growth across the continent.
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**Durban Multipurpose Terminal achieves historic volumes in 2024/2025 Financial Year**
Durban Point Multi Purpose Terminal (MPT). Picture: TNPA
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**In a remarkable achievement, the Durban Multipurpose Terminal (MPT), situated at the Durban Point, has set a new benchmark for container handling, surpassing 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in the 2024/2025 financial year.**
This milestone represents the highest throughput in the terminal’s history, significantly exceeding the target of 131,100 TEUs for the period ending March 2025.
Strategically located next to the bustling Durban Container Terminals (DCT), the Durban MPT plays a vital role in supporting DCT operations by handling overflow containers and ensuring seamless logistics flow.
As part of its operations, the terminal has provided crucial backup to maintain efficiency amid increased demand.
Capt Salvatore Sarno, chairman of MSC South Africa, with Earle Peters, managing executive at Durban Terminals
Earle Peters, Managing Executive at Durban Terminals, expressed pride in the terminal’s performance. “This achievement reflects a combination of growing trade, a recovering economy, expanded terminal capabilities, and, above all, the dedication of our workforce,” Peters said.
“It’s their commitment to reliable cargo handling that has driven this historic success.”
The Durban MPT has also seen significant investments in its infrastructure over the past five years, including the acquisition of four new reach stackers.
These additions were pivotal in supporting the terminal’s role in clearing a vessel backlog in 2024, a critical operation that reduced vessels waiting at anchorage from 20 to zero.
The previous record for container volume at the Durban MPT was set during the 2020/2021 financial year, with 182,198 TEUs handled. Despite equipment constraints, the terminal remains significantly effective in its discharge-only operations, efficiently processing a wide range of vessels.
The MPT is part of the Durban Terminals, managed by Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), a division of Transnet SOC.
As part of its ongoing recovery strategy, Transnet has committed R3.4 billion to upgrading equipment across its network of 16 sea-cargo terminals, ensuring improved operational efficiency and better service for customers and the broader industry.
Recent investments in Durban include the addition of 20 new straddle carriers for the DCT Pier 2 Terminal and nine rubber-tyred gantry cranes for the DCT Pier 1 Terminal, further enhancing the port’s capacity to handle growing cargo volumes.
With these advancements, the Durban MPT is poised to continue driving success, cementing its position as a key player in the region’s logistics and trade infrastructure.
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**Heavy rains bring death and destruction to DRC capital Kinshasa, main port road cut**
Map of the DRC showing location of Kinshasa and Matadi. Map courtesy CIA copyright free
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**Torrential rains that fell across parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in particular the capital, Kinshasa, have left at least 33 dead and tens of thousands affected as the river broke its banks and flooded large sections of the overcrowded city.**
Reports said the main roads to the port of Matadi and to the international airport have been blocked by the rising water, and elsewhere shops, businesses and homes are flooded.
“The republic will not abandon you,” DRC President Félix Tshisekedi is reported to have told citizens of the city of more than 17 million, though it was no clear what the government could do for areas of low-lying land on which people have randomly built.
Kinshasa is on the southern banks of the Congo Rover, one of the world’s largest that stretches across much of one of Africa’s largest countries.
Brazzaville, the capital of neighbouring Republic of Congo, lies across the wide river from Kinshasa and must also have been affected by the rains although no such reports appear to have been made.
The flooding in Kinshasa is partly the result of the N’djili river overflowing its banks and flooding a section of the city, trapping local residents.
The N’djili river, a tributary of the Congo river, is said to be highly polluted with human and other waste.
Further heavy rains are forecast for the coming weeks, according to the DRC’s meteorological agency.
Watch now a YouTube video [5:06] showing the extent of the flooding.
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**UNTU hits back at Transnet wage settlement claim**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **A fresh dispute has erupted in Transnet’s ongoing wage negotiations, with the United National Transport Union (UNTU) accusing the state-owned logistics company of bypassing proper collective bargaining processes.**
On Monday, UNTU, which represents the majority of Transnet workers, announced that it had successfully challenged an attempt by Transnet to unilaterally implement a wage settlement signed last week with the smaller South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU).
The contested agreement includes a multi-year wage increase of 6% across the board (ATB) in the first and second years, followed by a 5.5% ATB increase in the third year. Housing and medical aid allowances would also be adjusted in line with these increases, amounting to a total package of 17.5% over three years.
Transnet has indicated that the agreement would be extended to employees who are not members of UNTU, prompting fierce opposition from the union.
In a statement on Monday, UNTU condemned the move, describing it as an act that “undermines proper collective bargaining processes” and citing concerns that it unfairly applies a minority agreement to non-unionised workers and members of other unions, including NUMSA and RETUSA.
Last week, Transnet warned that UNTU would be engaging in unprotected industrial action if it proceeded with certain unspecified actions in response to the deal.
For its part, Transnet has defended the agreement, saying it negotiated in good faith with its two recognised unions and was acting in the best interests of its employees, the organisation, and the broader economy. It said it remains committed to resolving any outstanding issues with UNTU through the appropriate bargaining channels.
The wage dispute comes at a time when Transnet is under pressure to improve both its operational and financial performance amid ongoing service delivery challenges across its freight and port operations.
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**WHARF TALK: Expeditionary Mobile Base vessel – USS LEWIS B PULLER (ESB-3)**
Surprise arrival in the port of Cape Town on the evening of 4 April was the United States Navy (USN) warship USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3, for a short two-day stay. Picture is by ‘Dockrat’
**Pictures by ‘Dockrat’**
**Story by Jay Gates**
**Every now and again an unusual vessel arrives, unexpectedly, off a South African port. This is especially so in these last 18 months, and mostly all courtesy of the Houthi idiocy. The majority of these arrivals are of those classes of vessel that the casual maritime observer very rarely gets a chance to glimpse. What is not seen is a vessel whose arrival is not necessarily linked to the Houthi madness, but whose arrival is still a surprise, but more so of a geopolitical nature.**
There was a time, especially so during the various outbreaks of the Gulf War, and during the Afghanistan conflict, post 9-11, that military vessels belonging to the nations involved in those conflicts were regular callers in South African ports, all due to logistical requirements. The callers also included many of the warships heading for their patrol and support stations in the region. Those visits then slowly dried up, and there was very good reason for that happening.
The ANC government decided to give very public, and overt, support to the navies of repressive regimes such as China, Russia and Iran, and display similar public disdain for visits of the western navies that came before them. That decision is now coming back to haunt them, with a US President now in power that shows them the same contempt that they were perceived to show the Americans. One ex South African Ambassador to the USA, one ex South African Military Attaché to the USA later, military sanctions, and now trade tariffs, is most likely just the start of the economic and political downturn brought about by the ANC government actions.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
Since the ANC military pivot to BRICS, and night calls by Russian gun runners, vessels of the US Naval pre-positioning squadrons, and US support vessels, simply speed on past South Africa, without calling in, and US Navy warships themselves simply stopped coming. An occasional visit, as a flag waving exercise, by an American warship, with a view to publicly showing that western military and training support is still on offer, continues to take place occasionally.
Other than western warships, and auxiliaries, calling in due to Houthi nonsense, the last such official visit of a US warship was as far back as August 2022, with the second visit of the USS Hershel Woody Williams (ESB-4), a forward operating base vessel of the US 6th Fleet, with responsibilities for training African naval forces, and providing support where it was requested. That has pretty much been it, as far as the Americans have been concerned. That is, until now.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
As is the norm in this day and age of warships not displaying their AIS, the arrival of an American warship off the South African coast, and here officially, tends to take the local casual maritime observer by surprise. And so it was, when in the early evening of 4th April the United States Navy (USN) warship**‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’ **arrived off Cape Town, from places unknown. She duly entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth, for a visit of unknown length. Capetonians were not likely expecting to wake up to the sight of an American warship in town.
As the lead vessel of a class of six Expeditionary Mobile Base vessels, ‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’ was approved for construction in February 2012. She was laid down in November 2013 and launched in November 2014, being acquired for service in June 2015, but was only commissioned in August 2017.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
The reason for the late commissioning was that she entered USN service as a civilian crewed auxiliary, or United States Naval Ship (USNS), with the IMO number of 9656008. Her change of operations meant that she had to come under full USN control, and so received her United States Ship (USS) commission in August 2017, becoming the first USN warship to be commissioned outside of the United States of America.
She was built by the NASSCO shipyard at San Diego in the US State of California, and is 233 metres in length, with a beam of 50 metres, and a displacement tonnage of 90,000 tons. She is a diesel electric vessel with a General Electric (GE) Integrated Power System, with both domestic and propulsion power being produced by four Morse-Fairbanks MAN 6L48/60CR generators providing 6,480 kW each. Power for propulsion is transferred to two Alstom 6.6 kV electric motors, driving twin fixed pitch propellers, with twin rudders, giving her a service speed of 15 knots, and a capability of a maximum speed of 20 knots.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
She is defensively armed with twelve 0.50 calibre heavy machine guns, and Manpads. She has a flight deck with landing spots for up to four Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, or four MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters, or four Bell MV-22B Osprey tilt-rotors. She also has two additional parking spots for a further two Sikorsky CH-53E or MH-53E helicopters, and a hangar able to accommodate one further CH-53E or MH-53E helicopter.
Able to carry up to seven large RHIB boarding vessels, in support of Special Forces operations, and able to carry an accommodation barge, she is fitted with an ordnance and ammunition storage magazine, can undertake underway replenishment at sea (RAS) operations, and carries four Mk.105 Minesweeping Hydrofoil Sleds, for use on minesweeping operation, where the sleds are towed by the MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat
Her hull is based on the NASSCO Alaska class of civilian VLCC oil tankers, and she has an endurance range of 9,500 nautical miles. Her design is to support low intensity missions, such as those currently undertaken by the USN 5th Fleet, operating out of Bahrain, in the Persian Gulf, which is where she was based, and which allows for the more valuable, and capable, amphibious warfare vessels of the USN to be tasked for more demanding missions.
She is crewed by 5 Officers, 96 enlisted men and women, and 44 civilian Military Sealift Command (MSC) crew. Her current commanding officer is Captain Raul Acevedo USN, who is a former USN Aviator who flew the Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet strike fighter. Captain Acevedo is a 24 year Navy veteran, who has completed over 3,200 flying hours, and completed over 700 aircraft carrier landings. He was also assigned as the Executive Officer on the USN aircraft carrier ‘USS John C Stennis (CVN-74), and was also a Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor at the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known universally to everybody as TOPGUN.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
As the lead vessel of her class, known as the ‘Lewis B Puller’ class, she is named after United States Marine Corps (USMC) Lieutenant General Lewis Burwell Puller (1898-1971), who is the most decorated USMC individual in their history. He served in both the Second World War, in the Pacific Theatre, and in the Korean War, being honoured for his bravery and courage with no less than five Navy Crosses, a Distinguished Service Cross, a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, an Air Medal, a Legion of Merit, and a Purple Heart .
During her career in the 5th Fleet ‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’, in December 2022, boarded the stateless dhow ‘Marwan 1’, and seized weapons and ammunition suspected of being smuggled by Iran to Yemen. The catch included over one million rounds of AK-47 assault rifle ammunition, which was ultimately donated by the United States government, as part of their military aid package, to the Ukraine military.
USS Lewis B Puller ESB-3. Cape Town, 5 April 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
In April 2023, when the civil war in Sudan broke out, ‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’ was tasked by the US Pentagon to proceed to a position off Port Sudan, and to assist with the evacuation of American citizens, and other foreign nationals, and to provide support to all US Forces ashore in Sudan who were co-ordinating the evacuation operation.
On 11 January 2024, US Navy SEAL Special Forces, who were operating from ‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’ boarded, at night and in rough seas, a suspicious dhow sailing off the coast of Somalia, and suspected of being en route to Yemen. The catch on this occasion included Iranian ballistic missile, and cruise missile, components destined for Yemen. Sadly, in this operation, one SEAL fell overboard, and another SEAL went in to try to save him. Both went missing, and despite an eleven day search and rescue operation, they were never recovered, and were presumed dead. Subsequently, the dhow itself was sunk by the US Navy.
The stay of ‘USS Lewis B Puller (ESB-3)’ in Cape Town was described as one of R&R (Rest and Recreation) by the US Navy. After a short two day visit, where as well as R&R activities, she completed any logistical requirement such as stores, fresh provisions, and any other needs, she was ready to sail. In the afternoon of 6th April she sailed from Cape Town, and as with her arrival, no AIS indication was given of where she was headed to next.
Although a part of the USN 5th Fleet, based in Bahrain up until recently, she is now listed as being part of the USN 6th Fleet, who are based in the Mediterranean, and under the Naval Surface Force Atlantic (SURFLANT) command, based in Norfolk, in the US State of Virginia.
So it is unknown if her call into Cape Town was on a voyage from East to West, on a redeployment from one fleet to the next, or if it was part of the same 6th Fleet Africa Command (AFRICOM) operations undertaken by the ‘USS Hershel Woody Williams (ESB-4)’ when she called into South African ports back in 2022 and 2021. See Africa Ports and Ships edition of 26th September 2021 to read about this visit.
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**Red Sea mission marks new era in naval surveillance for Combined Maritime Forces**
CTF153 has deployed unmanned surface vessels to carry out surveillance in the Red Sea. Picture: CMF/CTF153
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
## **Uncrewed patrols strengthen maritime security in Red Sea**
### **In a landmark operation, Combined Maritime Forces (CMF 153) has completed its first sustained uncrewed surveillance mission in the Red Sea, deploying four uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) on a continuous 50-day patrol covering nearly half of the strategically vital waterway.**
The Combined Task Force (CTF) 153 patrol, under Australian leadership between February and April, marked a significant step forward in integrating autonomous systems into frontline maritime security operations.
The USVs, supplied by the U.S. Navy’s Task Force 59 – a unit focused on uncrewed systems and AI development – patrolled a 219,000 square kilometre area between February and April, delivering round-the-clock video and radar surveillance to CMF operators.
“This is a major milestone for collaborative maritime security,” said Royal Australian Navy Captain Jorge McKee, commander of CTF 153.
“The deployment gave us persistent visibility on the water for weeks on end, without the need to resupply in port. That’s a game-changer.”
Operating under remote control with support from U.S. Navy and civilian specialists, the USVs provided real-time intelligence to CMF Headquarters, enhancing the coalition’s ability to detect, deter and disrupt illicit activity in one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
The Red Sea, a critical artery connecting the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, has long been a hotspot for smuggling, illegal fishing, and piracy.
CMF believes the presence of these autonomous vessels is a powerful deterrent to criminal networks that exploit unmonitored waters.
“We know that when no one is watching, non-state actors take advantage. These uncrewed systems allow us to watch more of the sea, more of the time,” McKee said.
“They help us direct our warships where they’re needed most – to interdict smuggling operations and protect innocent mariners.”
The patrol culminated a year of joint planning by Italian and Australian-led command teams at CTF 153, working in close coordination with Task Force 59.
The success of the operation is expected to pave the way for expanded use of autonomous maritime technologies across the region.
CTF 153, established in April 2022, is one of five task forces operating under the CMF umbrella. Under Australian command from October 2024 to April 2025, the task force is charged with countering illicit non-state actors in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab, and Gulf of Aden – waters that collectively form a key global trade route.
CMF, headquartered in Bahrain, is the world’s largest multinational naval partnership, encompassing 46 nations committed to ensuring maritime security across over 3.2 million square miles of ocean.
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**TNPA seeks operator for a liquid bulk terminal at Cape Town port**
Cape Town port liquid bulk facility. Picture: TNPA
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has announced a call for proposals to appoint a new Liquid Bulk Terminal Operator at the Port of Cape Town.**
The operator will be responsible for managing the handling of edible oils and compatible cargo at a key site within the port’s Liquid Bulk Precinct.
The site, earmarked for brownfield development, spans 6,289 square metres and is strategically located with access to the Tanker Basin’s common-user berths. It currently handles high-flash products such as molasses and vegetable oils, with operations involving both vessel and road tanker deliveries.
According to TNPA, the successful bidder will be granted a 25-year concession to finance, refurbish and/or construct, operate, maintain, and ultimately transfer the terminal infrastructure.
The initiative is part of TNPA’s broader strategy to enhance port efficiency and improve the flow of essential commodities.
“The terminal will support the import of liquid bulk – critical to South Africa’s food supply chain – and help ensure food security and economic stability,” said Ophelia Shabane, Acting Port Manager at the Port of Cape Town.
“This project is also expected to attract private investment, boost cargo throughput, and create jobs, all while upholding global standards for safety and environmental compliance.”
Currently, the Port of Cape Town hosts 11 licensed terminal operators, nine of which are privately operated.
A non-compulsory briefing session for interested bidders will take place at the Port of Cape Town on Thursday, 17 April 2025, and the bid closes on 11 July 2025.
RFP documents can be accessed on the Transnet e-tender portal, click **here**.
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**WHARF TALK: cruise ship – AIDAprima**
The German-language cruise ship AIDAprima in Cape Town on 28 March 2025. Picture by ‘Dockrat’
**Pictures by ‘Dockrat’**
**Story by Jay Gates**
**The normal time to see the big megaliners in South African ports is twofold. First up, at the start of the season are, at least in terms of today’s dangerous geopolitics, two types of visit. The first are those megaliners carrying out their positioning voyage at the end of the European cruising season, and heading for their warm winter base, normally in the Gulf regions. The second type are those on the big round the world cruise and transiting from the warm ports of the northern hemisphere, to the warm ports of the southern hemisphere. In both cases they are all, generally, passing through to avoid the Houthi nonsense, and taking the safe Cape sea route.**
As always, as the season changes and the warm seasons of the southern hemisphere begin to turn, and the new European cruising season beckons, many of the megaliners begin their reverse trek, and leave their winter cruising base, and head back to Europe. Once again, thanks to the Houthi idiocy, the Cape sea route is the preferred routing, and South African ports get to see them again heading back to Europe. Some, like those megaliners of MSC Cruises, prefer a fast-positioning voyage, with no passengers aboard, and no stops en route. Whereas others like to make it into a mini half world cruise, with passengers, such as those of the Carnival group.
On 28th March, at 06:00 in the morning, the large passenger cruise vessel ‘AIDAprima’ (IMO 9636955) arrived off Cape Town, from Port Elizabeth. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock and, as the vast majority of visiting cruise liners do, she was berthed alongside the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth for the duration of her stay.
AIDAprima. Cape Town, 28 March 025. Picture is by ‘Dockrat’
Built in 2016 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard at Nagasaki in Japan, ‘AIDAprima’ is 300 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of a whopping 125,572 tons. She is a diesel electric vessel with power provided by three MaK 12VM43C generators producing 12,000 kW each, and a single MaK 12VM46DF dual fuel generator, hence the DF suffix, capable of burning both marine diesel and LNG, and also producing 12,000 kW. The total of 48,000 kW of power is for both propulsion and domestic requirements, with propulsion power transferred to two ABB XO Azipods, both producing 14,000 kW each, and giving her a service speed of 22 knots.
Her auxiliary machinery includes a single Caterpillar 3516B emergency generator providing 2,250 kW, and her eco credentials also has her fitted with a Corvus Orca ESS battery system, providing her with a further 9.95 MWh of renewable, clean energy. She has six Saacke EMB-VFT exhaust gas boilers, and two Saacke FMB-VF oil fired boilers. For additional manoeuvrability she is fitted with three bow Brunvoll FT115-LTC transverse thrusters, producing 3,000 kW each.
AIDAprima. Cape Town, 28 March 025. Picture is by ‘Dockrat’
Another innovation of ‘AIDAprima’ is that she is fitted with the Mitsubishi Air Lubrication System (MALS), which is designed to release a stream of small air bubbles along the length, and breadth, of her lower hull as she is underway. The MALS system lubricates the hull, which makes her a more efficient vessel by reducing hull friction, which gives her a reduced fuel consumption of 7%, and thus reducing emissions.
She has a total of 17 decks, of which 15 are solely for the use of her passengers. She has 9 decks set aside purely for cabins, which total 1,643. She can carry a maximum passenger complement of 3,286 passengers, who are looked after by a crew that numbers 952. As can be expected of a vessel of this size, her passenger leisure facilities are many and varied.
She has no less than fifteen bars, twelve restaurants, four cafés, four lounges, a conference room, discotheque, nightclub, theatre, casino, library, art gallery, cooking studio, brewery, shops, boutiques, nail spa, beauty salon, fitness centre, gymnasium, wellness centre, saunas, treatment rooms, mud room, relaxation rooms, toddlers club, kids club, teens club, LED outdoor movie screen, water park and water slides. Her sports facilities include a climbing wall, skywalk, rope course, mini golf course, golf driving cage, putting green, golf simulator, basketball court, volleyball court, and a jogging track, plus she has seven swimming pools of various sizes, and ten Jacuzzi whirlpools. As is traditional on German passenger vessels, ‘AIDAprima’ has two nudist sunbathing decks.
AIDAprima. Cape Town, 28 March 025. Picture is by ‘Dockrat’
Although nominally owned by Carnival Corporation & PLC, of Miami in the US State of Florida, ‘AIDAprima’’ is owned by Costa Crociere SpA, of Genoa in Italy. She is operated by AIDA Kreuzfahrten GmbH, of Rostock in Germany, and managed by Carnival Maritime GmbH, of Hamburg in Germany. She cost US$650 million (ZAR12.41 billion) to build, and she was the first built of two sisterships, known as the Hyperion Class, with ‘AIDAprima’ being the flagship of AIDA Cruises, which gives emphasis to her name suffix of ‘prima’.
Although she was launched in 2014, her delay in completion of over one year, to 2016 was down to a number of unplanned issues, including an onboard fire during construction, and other construction problems that arose during her building. Not only was ‘AIDAprima’ the first AIDA Cruises vessel not to be built in the German Meyer Werft shipyard for over a decade, but she was also the first cruise liner of the Carnival Corporation to be built in a Japanese shipyard for more than a decade.
Her homeward voyage began in Dubai, at the end of her winter season based there. She departed on 1st March on a 42 day cruise with an itinerary of Dubai- Abu Dhabi (both UAE)- Doha (Qatar)- Muscat (Oman)- Port Louis (Mauritius)- St. Denis (Reunion)- Port Elizabeth (25th March 08:00 to 26th March 23:00)- Cape Town (28th March 06:00 to 29th March 24:00)- Walvis Bay (Namibia)- Praia (Cape Verde Islands)- Las Palmas (Canary Islands), where she is due to arrive on 12th April. She will then conduct a few cruises around the Canary Islands, before heading to Northern Europe for a full summer season of cruises. On this cruise she offered Fly/Cruise options from Dubai to Cape Town, and from Cape Town to Las Palmas.
AIDAprima. Cape Town, 28 March 025. Picture is by ‘Dockrat’
The casual maritime observer who might have missed her this time around, need not fret, as she is due to return in late 2025 for a further cruise season based out of Dubai, and into 2026. She is scheduled to leave Germany on 3rd October, on a 49-day cruise terminating in Dubai on 20th November. Her itinerary for this positioning cruise is Hamburg- Southampton- A Coruña- Vigo (both Spain)- Porto- Lisbon (both Portugal)- Funchal (Madeira)- Arrecife- Fuerteventura- Tenerife- Las Palmas (all Canary Islands)- Praia- Walvis Bay- Cape Town (1st November 08:00 to 3rd November 20:00)- Port Elizabeth (5th November 08:00 to 6th November 19:00)- St. Denis- Port Louis- Muscat- Dubai.
On the conclusion of her season in the Persian Gulf in early 2026, ‘AIDAprima’ is scheduled to conduct a nearly identical voyage back to Europe for the 2026 European Summer cruising season. She will depart Dubai on 20th February 2026 for a 36-day cruise which terminates once again in Las Palmas in the Canary Islands on 28th March 2026, and taking an almost identical routing to this current cruise.
Once more she will call at both Port Elizabeth and Cape Town en route back to Europe, but sadly she misses out Durban yet again. One wonders if there is a reason for this constant omission of Durban. For the casual maritime observer, the dates to put in the 2026 diary are Port Elizabeth (7th March 08:00 to 8th March 23:00) and Cape Town (10th March 06:00 to 11th March 24:00).
When AIDAprima was introduced in 2016 she became AIDA Cruises’ flagship. Picture courtesy AIDA Cruises
The cruise schedule of ‘AIDAprima’ is also planned far enough in advance that on completion of her 2026 European cruising season that she will once more head back to Dubai for her 2026-2027 winter cruising season. Again, the casual maritime observer in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth will be pleased, and the casual maritime observer in Durban will be, yet again, extremely disappointed.
She is scheduled to depart from Hamburg on 19th October 2026 for a 54-day cruise back to Dubai, again with an almost identical route to all the cruises that went before, and she is due to call at Cape Town (16th November 08:00 to 17th November 21:00) and Port Elizabeth (19th November 08:00 to 20:00 same day).
Whilst alongside at Cape Town, it was noticeable that ‘AIDA prima’ provides a rack of bicycles and helmets for their passengers to utilise whilst they were alongside at the Cruise Terminal, to allow them to cycle across to the V&A, or even into the Foreshore, or down to Sea Point. As scheduled, she was ready to sail after her two days alongside, and at Midnight on 29th March, she sailed for Walvis Bay. At least, and unusually so, we know that she will return at least three more occasion over the next two years, and likely a fourth time when she will, presumably, position back to Europe in early 2027. So, something to look forward to, but not if you are a ship spotter in Durban!
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**Indian Navy intercepts drug-smuggling dhow in Arabian Sea**
INS Tarkash and the dhow on which 2.5 tons of drugs was found. Picture: Indian Navy
by defenceWeb
**The Indian Navy’s Talwar class frigate INS Tarkash has seized more than 2 500 kilograms of narcotics in the western Indian Ocean while deployed as part of Combined Task Force 150.**
On 31 March, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received multiple inputs from Indian Navy P8I maritime patrol aircraft, regarding suspicious vessels operating in the area. These vessels were believed to be involved in illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking.
In response, the INS Tarkash altered its course to intercept. After interrogating suspicious vessels in the vicinity, INS Tarkash intercepted and boarded a suspect dhow, owing to the coordinated efforts with the P8I and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai.
Additionally, the ship launched its helicopter to monitor the activities of the suspicious vessel and identify other vessels likely operating in the area, the Indian Navy said in a statement.
A specialist boarding team, along with Marine Commandos, boarded the dhow and after a thorough search discovered sealed packets containing 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin stored in different cargo holds and compartments onboard the vessel. The suspicious dhow was subsequently brought under the control of INS Tarkash, and its crew were questioned. Picture: Indian Navy
“This seizure underscores the effectiveness and professionalism of the Indian Navy in deterring and disrupting illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking at sea,” the Navy said in a statement.
“The Indian Navy’s participation in multinational exercises aims to promote security, stability, and prosperity across international waters in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).”
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025, INS Tarkash is actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which is part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and is based in Bahrain. The ship is participating in the multi-national forces’ joint focus operation, Anzac Tiger.
Written by defenceWeb and republished with permission. The original article can be found **here**
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**MSC Magnifica to make maiden calls in South Africa and Namibia on 2025 World Cruise**
MSC Magnifica, another ship of the Musica class, visiting SA this week. Picture MSC Cruises
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**MSC Magnifica will this week visit South Africa and Namibia for the first time as part of her 2025 World Cruise, marking a significant milestone for MSC Cruises. The ship will call at Port Elizabeth on 14 April, Cape Town on 16 April, and Walvis Bay in Namibia on 18 April.**
To celebrate these inaugural calls, MSC Cruises South Africa will host a series of special onboard events, including traditional crest exchange ceremonies that symbolize goodwill and strengthen ties with local port authorities and communities.
Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa, highlighted the growing appeal of African destinations to international travellers. “MSC Magnifica’s African stops underscore our confidence in the region’s ability to support global cruise ships,” Volk said.
“With 3,000 international passengers on board, the ship will provide a significant boost to local tourism and communities through onshore spending.”
The ship, part of MSC’s Musica class, accommodates up to 3,223 passengers in 1,259 cabins and offers an array of amenities including multiple bars and lounges, gourmet restaurants, a spa, pools, and a grand theatre.
On the South African leg of the journey, celebrity chef Reuben Riffel will return as guest chef, creating a special menu featuring local Cape cuisine, including seafood, lamb, and malva pudding.
MSC Magnifica’s 2025 World Cruise began on January 18 and includes stops in Florida, Chile, Australia, Senegal, and Italy.
In related news, MSC Cruises has launched sales for its upcoming ships, MSC World Asia and MSC World America, both promising immersive voyages to Mediterranean and North and Central American destinations, respectively.
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**Stena Line Unveils Stena Futuro: A Next-Generation Vessel with 20%+ Energy Savings**
Concept idea of what the new Stena Futuro ferry might look like. Picture courtesy Stena Line
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **Stena Line has revealed a groundbreaking new vessel concept, the Stena Futuro, which promises to reduce energy usage by more than 20%.**
This innovative design aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals, including a commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2030.
The Stena Futuro is a 240-metre-long RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessel, specifically designed to transport semi-trailers and cars. It represents a key step in the company’s ongoing effort to decarbonize its fleet, which includes both improving the efficiency of existing ships and developing new vessels with cutting-edge technology.
Nicolas Bathfield, Project Manager at Stena Teknik, explained the mission behind the new vessel. “The goal is to develop the most efficient and competitive vessel possible, using today’s available technology, with the lowest fuel consumption on the market,” he said.
The vessel’s design prioritises efficiency, with an optimised hull and superstructure that maximises cargo space while minimising weight. The streamlined design is key to reducing fuel consumption, and the ship will incorporate a range of advanced technologies to further limit its environmental impact.
Stena Futuro will be equipped with hybrid propulsion, which combines batteries and low-fuel engines capable of running on various fuels.
Stena Futuro with her ‘sails’ folded. Picture courtesy Stena Line
The hybrid system will allow the ship to operate partly on electricity, especially when entering or leaving ports. Additionally, solar panels will contribute to the ship’s energy needs.
In an innovative move, Stena Futuro will also feature an air lubrication system, releasing small air bubbles beneath the waterline to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency. A waste heat recovery system will enable the ship to reuse hot exhaust gases for onboard heating and power generation.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Sotena Futuro concept is its inclusion of four 40-metre-tall retractable wing sails. Recent tests and simulations conducted with the Swedish research institute RISE have shown that the sails could reduce fuel consumption by up to 15%.
The tests also confirmed that the sails do not compromise the vessel’s stability or manoeuvrability, even in challenging conditions such as sudden wind shifts.
While the Stena Futuro represents an ambitious leap forward in green shipping technology, the production timeline for the vessel has not yet been finalised. However, the concept is expected to play a key role in Stena Line’s future fleet planning.
Niclas Mårtensson, CEO of Stena Line, emphasised the company’s dedication to sustainability. “We aim to lead our industry in achieving global climate goals,” he said.
“The Stena Futuro concept is an important step in developing tomorrow’s vessels and achieving our environmental targets,” he said.
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**Veson Nautical Shipping Market Outlook for Q2 2025 Forecast**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
## **Overview**
**Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the resulting rerouting have disrupted shipping markets to varying degrees. A sudden end to rerouting poses considerable downside risks for the shipping industry, while a prolonged extension could offer substantial upside potential. Sanctions contribute to this uncertain environment, where any major escalation or de-escalation could significantly affect the global economic outlook.**
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the US’ proposed tariffs, as any counter measures could impact the global shipping sector and lead to reduced international trade and sustained higher inflation. Also, China’s economic recovery is fragile, adding further uncertainty given its crucial role as a global demand driver. This delicate situation could be worsened by potential trade wars as China’s economy is heavily dependent on exports.
Here’s a summary of how this uncertainty could play out across Tankers, Bulkers, Containers, and Gas industries based on our forecast data.
## **Tankers**
Volatility in rates and expectations will continue with movements in the oil price, sanctioned oil volume developments, pre-emptive measures in the Red Sea, OPEC+ decisions, and members’ compliance—as well as China’s ability to maintain economic growth and high crude imports and refinery runs.
Although Russian exports of crude oil and petroleum products may decrease, the continued supply of oil to Europe from alternative sources (such as the Middle East, the US, and Latin America) will sustain ton-mile demand and support rates moving forward.
Tanker ordering activity in 2024 saw a 50% increase compared to 2023 but has slowed significantly in 2025 so far. While newbuilding prices have stabilised, they remain high by historical standards. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty seems to be impacting current ordering trends.
It is distances, rather than volumes, that have been the primary driver of strong Tanker markets lately. Recent market conditions have been positively influenced by the EU and G7 sanctions on Russian oil imports and the rerouting of shipments to avoid high-risk areas in the Red Sea. While there is currently no clear end to these effects, they pose a downside risk to Tanker trades.
It will be instrumental for renewed Tanker market strength that China’s oil demand and oil import demand rebounds in the year ahead. The macroeconomic environment is still fragile, and while the inflation pressure has abated, several large economies are still struggling with low GDP growth. Interest rates have also started to come down, but consumers are still weary of price pressures and their disposable income.
**Bulkers** Bulker supply growth is expected to remain relatively low due to minimal ordering activity in recent years. However, the market balance is anticipated to soften in 2025 as supply growth temporarily outpaces demand.
In 2024, China sustained strong mineral imports, particularly in iron ore, coal, and bauxite. However, domestic demand remained sluggish due to a struggling property sector and low consumer confidence weighing on domestic consumption.
Declining interest rates in the EU and the US, combined with increasing global investments in green energy infrastructure, will boost economic activity and positively impact the demand for minor bulk commodities in the coming years.
Although the Bulker shipping segment has not been the most impacted by the rerouting from the Red Sea, many owners are choosing the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope. This detour is contributing to an approximate 1% increase in Bulker ton-miles, which has positively influenced freight rates in 2024 and continues to do so in 2025.
## **Containers**
Container TEU-mile demand growth for 2024 is calculated to have been 17.1%, driven by high activity in total volumes traded in addition to longer sailing distance due to the Red Sea diversion. Our current analysis points to total TEU demand growth of 0% yearly average over the period 2025-2028.
Both volumes and sailing distances have increased which is positive for freight rates. Sailing speed has increased with an average of 1.5% compared to 2023 but we are expecting some decline in average speed in our forecast period due to a more muted outlook and stricter environmental regulations. We forecast freight rates to decline steadily in 2025 as more vessels enter the market.
Vessel supply growth in our forecast period will at some point outpace demand despite the Red Sea conflict, and this will affect freight rates for all sizes. Better macroeconomic outlooks and interest rate cuts will be positive for demand in the end of our forecast period, in addition to continuing growth in emerging markets.
With high ordering activity in recent years, we expect net fleet growth to have an average pace of 8.2% between 2025-2028.
While New-Panamax Containers have been the preferred vessel to be ordered in the past years, we have seen a shift lately towards ULCVs as this vessel is typically trading Asia-Europe which is most affected by rerouting. The orderbook to fleet is currently at 29.6%.
Scrapping activity has remained muted with 0.13 mill TEU’s in 2023, but this is expected to increase going forward.
## **Gas**
In the US, we expect LPG production to grow steadily in our forecast period. Production increased by 5.9% in 2024 and a further 5.4% is expected in 2025. In the coming years there are several natural gas production projects which will support further growth in LPG.
In the Middle East, exports have been surprisingly high in 2024 despite the ongoing production cuts in oil. We have seen increases of c7.1% but expect this to be somewhat reduced in 2025 by around 4.5%.
The net fleet growth for VLGCs/VLACs reached 10.9% in 2024, and we expect the average yearly growth to be 7.5% in our forecast period.
LPG demand in the Asia-Pacific region continued to grow last year, with import volumes rising approximately 11% in 2024. Imports to China from the US have surged by an astonishing 37%, contributing positively to global CBM-mile demand.
Inefficiencies for coasters and small LPG vessels are expected to increase somewhat due to more extreme weather conditions. However, overcapacity and weak demand remain—causing significant concerns for the petrochemical industry, with chemical companies reporting few signs of recovery.
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**Back to the airship as Kuehne+Nagel joins those on board**
Airlander prototype in flight. Picture: HAV
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **Global logistics and freight industry leaders collaborate on Airlander’s future role in heavy-lift transport and disaster relief**
Key players from the global logistics and freight sectors are teaming up with Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd (HAV) to explore the potential use of larger Airlander variants, a new generation of aircraft designed for heavy-lift transportation.
The initiative, known as the Airlander Futures Network, brings together industry leaders, including logistics giant Kuehne+Nagel and Oregon’s Department of Human Services’ Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, to help shape the future of the Airlander family.
The collaboration will guide the design and specification of future Airlander aircraft, which could scale to carry up to 200 tonnes. The Airlander’s unique hybrid design and ability to access hard-to-reach locations could transform industries ranging from logistics to disaster relief.
Kuehne+Nagel, one of the world’s leading logistics providers with operations in over 100 countries, has joined the Airlander Futures Network to explore the aircraft’s potential to bridge the gap between fast, carbon-intensive air freight and slower, more affordable ground transportation.
With the growing demand for sustainable logistics solutions, Airlander could offer a middle ground, combining speed and reduced carbon emissions.
The Oregon Department of Human Services’ Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, recognised for its proactive disaster relief planning, has also joined the network. This move reflects the growing need for innovative solutions in emergency response, especially in disaster-prone areas like Oregon, which faces significant risks from the Cascadia Subduction Zone.
Airlander in flight. Picture: HAV
The Airlander’s ability to carry large payloads without the need for prepared runways makes it an ideal candidate for future disaster relief operations, providing a rapid and efficient means of transporting supplies to affected areas.
The Airlander Futures Network represents a significant step in the development of HAV’s vision for the Airlander aircraft family. The network brings together experts from logistics, freight, and disaster management to ensure that future designs align with real-world needs.
By incorporating feedback from these global players, HAV aims to create aircraft that meet market demands for efficient, cost-effective transport, while also contributing to environmental sustainability.
The first of the Airlander fleet, the Airlander 10, is already in development and will be capable of carrying up to ten tonnes of freight or 100+ passengers.
It is expected to be a game-changer for both the air travel and freight industries, with customers such as European regional airline Air Nostrum Group and eco-tourism brand Grands Espaces already on board. Following this, larger Airlander variants will be designed to scale up, capable of handling significantly heavier payloads.
By working with a wide range of industry leaders, the Airlander Futures Network will ensure the next generation of Airlander aircraft is optimised for a variety of applications, from logistics and freight to humanitarian aid.
Airlander over Stromness. Picture: HAV
With the ability to carry heavier loads more sustainably, future Airlander variants are poised to revolutionise transportation and disaster relief, offering a solution to the growing demands of both industries.
George Land, Executive Director of Sales at Hybrid Air Vehicles, highlighted the importance of collaboration in this groundbreaking project.
“The Airlander Futures Network provides a real opportunity to understand the needs of the logistics and freight markets,” he said. “We believe larger Airlander variants can drive further growth and efficiency, meeting both industry needs and sustainability goals.”
As HAV continues to develop its vision for the Airlander, the involvement of global organizations at the cutting edge of logistics and emergency management is crucial to ensuring the aircraft will meet the challenges of the future.
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**Maritime industry associations release new BMP Maritime Security Publication to address rising global threats**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
**A group of leading maritime industry associations, including BIMCO, ICS, IMCA, INTERCARGO, INTERTANKO, and OCIMF, supported by over forty maritime stakeholders, has launched a consolidated and enhanced edition of the Best Management Practices (BMP) for Maritime Security (MS).**
This interactive, online publication is designed to provide seafarers and maritime professionals with a comprehensive resource to navigate the evolving landscape of maritime security threats.
Available to view on the **industry website**, the updated BMP Maritime Security consolidates regional security guidelines into one unified publication, offering actionable insights, advice, and an easy-to-navigate structure.
The new format includes a risk and threat management process, with links to the most up-to-date intelligence and resources, ensuring users can stay informed on emerging security developments.
Seafarers, who face a growing range of threats while operating ships globally, will find the new BMP publication particularly valuable.
These threats, often involving hostile state and non-state actors, can lead to traumatic experiences, including violence and prolonged hostage situations. The new publication aims to mitigate such risks by offering updated strategies for detecting, preventing, and responding to maritime security threats.
David Loosley, BIMCO’s Secretary General & CEO, emphasized the urgency of the new BMP, noting the dramatic spike in attacks against merchant ships in 2024, with over 100 incidents in the Black Sea and Southern Red Sea alone.
“BMP MS will reduce risks and save lives,” Loosley said. “We must equip our seafarers with the best tools to protect them and ensure the continued safety of world trade.”
The publication also includes diagrams and tools that enhance learning and provide vital resources for seafarer welfare support. It highlights key global authorities and provides direct contact information to assist in risk management and crew protection.
Guy Platten
Industry leaders, including Guy Platten of ICS and Iain Grainger of IMCA, have strongly supported the new BMP, highlighting the need for real-time guidance in the face of escalating security threats.
Platten noted the increasing severity of risks, from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to the Red Sea Crisis, underscoring the need for industry-wide collaboration.
The enhanced BMP also introduces new guidance to help manage security risks in an environment where threats are rapidly evolving. “BMP Maritime Security is an essential tool for seafarers to proactively manage risks, safeguard crew welfare, and bolster maritime security resilience worldwide,” IMCA Chief Executive Ian Grainger said.
Representatives from INTERCARGO, INTERTANKO, and OCIMF also praised the publication’s collaborative approach, emphasising the importance of clear, actionable protocols to protect seafarers and ensure the safety of maritime trade.
The BMP Maritime Security publication replaces previous editions and supports a coordinated effort across the maritime industry to address the complex security challenges of today’s global shipping environment.
As the threats faced by seafarers continue to evolve, this new resource will help ensure that the industry remains equipped with the latest tools and strategies to safeguard crews and vessels.
***** The publication is available for download **here**
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**SA unveils strategic economic diversification plan amid US tariffs**
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **South Africa has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the economic impact of new United States tariffs, focusing on export diversification, value-added production, and strengthening regional trade partnerships.**
This is after United States President, Donald Trump, announced global reciprocal tariffs on most imported goods, with South Africa facing a 31% tariff increase.
“The new tariff regime arising from the decision by the United States of America, which have been directed not only to South Africa, but the entire world, necessitates strategic responses to maintain and grow our industrial base, as a crucial avenue to pursue inclusive growth,” the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, said on Friday.
Ronald Lamola, SA Minister of International Relations & Cooperation. Picture: SAnews.gov.za
Lamola was speaking during a joint media briefing with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau.
He informed journalists that South Africa will continue to tackle the challenges and seize opportunities with resilience and innovation, as the country moves forward with ensuring economic growth, industrial development, and the well-being of its citizens.
Lamola outlined plans to navigate the challenges posed by the 31% tariffs set to take effect from 9 April 2025.
These include negotiating favourable trade agreements with the United States; leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade; and prioritising high-value manufacturing to reduce tariff exposure.
In addition, he said government remains committed to building economic resilience, exploring alternative market access through existing trade agreements and strategic partnerships with countries across various regions.
## **Diversification**
“We will intensify efforts to diversify export destinations, targeting markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas,” the Minister stated.
According to Lamola, government aims to reduce dependence on single export markets and foster economic resilience.
Meanwhile, he announced that the State will invest strategically in industries impacted by the tariffs, supporting economic growth through modernisation and targeted infrastructure development.
The sweeping tariff measures will affect several sectors of South Africa’s economy, including automotive, industrial agriculture, processed food and beverage, chemical, metals, and other segments of manufacturing.
According to Lamola, South Africa’s tariff and industrial strategy are designed to support industrial development, employment growth, and economic resilience.
“By aligning these policies with the national interest, South Africa will ensure that its economy emerges stronger, more diversified, and resilient in the face of global trade complexities,” he explained.
This approach will also apply to the 7 February Executive Order, which led to the withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition (JET) partnership with South Africa.
“South Africa’s average tariff is 7.6% and therefore South Africa needs clarity on the basis for the 31% to be implemented by the US.”
## **Certain items exempted**
Lamola clarified that products such as copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, certain critical minerals, and energy and energy products, have been exempted from the reciprocal tariffs.
These reciprocal tariffs will also not apply to products already facing Section 232 tariffs of 25%, such as steel, aluminium, automobiles, and auto parts.
Currently, the Minister said the United States represents 7.45% of South Africa’s total exports, while South Africa accounts for only 0.4% of the United States’ imports.
“As such, South Africa does not constitute a threat to the US, and there is a trade imbalance in favour of South Africa. It is mainly on agricultural products, which are counter-cyclical, and on minerals, which are inputs in US industries.”
Highlighting the potential impact, Lamola noted that the tariffs “effectively nullify the preference that Sub-Saharan African countries enjoy under the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).”
However, despite the challenges, Lamola said government remains optimistic.
“The tariffs affirm the urgency to negotiate a new bilateral and mutually beneficial agreement with the US, that will establish more fair-trade relations with the US as an essential step to secure long-term trade certainty,” Lamola added.
## **Transparency in tariff calculations**
Meanwhile, Tau stressed the need for confirmation from the United States on how they arrived at the tariff number, referencing international norms and standards.
He also highlighted the importance of transparency in tariff calculations, using World Trade Organisation (WTO) standards and the most favoured nations mechanism.
“And that’s why we are advocating for a reform of the World Trade Organisation and ensuring that it’s able to adapt to current reality, but also ensuring that we’re able to reinforce a multilateral system of trade and transparency across the board. Otherwise, you’re going to have an environment where there are no global rules,” Tau added. source: SAnews.gov.za
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**WHARF TALK: PCTC – CMA CGM SILVERSTONE**
On Monday 22 July 2024, China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai), was handed over to Idan Ofer’s Eastern Pacific Shipping. Picture: China Merchants Jinling Shipyard
**Pictures by Jumaine Kruger
****Story by Jay Gates**
**The big Asian carriers, especially those in South Korea, Japan and China, enjoy dipping their toes into virtually every trade that crisscrosses the globe, so having the likes of Hyundai, NYK, and COSCO running various fleets such as container vessels, as well as pure car carriers, is something that the casual maritime observer has got used to seeing. What the same observer has probably not seen is having a big European container vessel operator dipping their toes into the pure car carrier market, and entering the trade against the established operators.**
On 31st March, at the early hour of 03:00 in the morning, the pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ (IMO 9953793) arrived off the Durban Bluff, from Hambantota in Sri Lanka. She entered Durban harbour, proceeding to the Point Terminal and going alongside, and straddling, berths Q and R.
Built in 2024 by China Merchants Jinling shipyard at Weihai in China, ‘CMC CGM Silverstone’ is 200 metres in length, with a 38 metre beam, and has a gross registered tonnage of 71,631 tons. She is a dual fuel vessel and is powered by a single MAN-B&W 7S60ME-C10.5-GI-EcoEGR seven cylinder, two stroke, main engine producing 17,430 bhp (12,998 kW) to drive a fixed pitch propeller for a service speed of 18.5 knots.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
Her auxiliary machinery includes three Hyundai Himsen 8H22CDF generators providing 1,634 kW each, and a single Cummins NT855-D(M) emergency generator providing 358 kW. She has a single Alfa Laval Aalborg XS-7V exhaust gas boiler, and a single Alfa Laval Aalborg OS-TCi oil fired boiler. For added manoeuvrability ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ is fitted with a single Nakashima bow NT-F110 transverse thruster.
Her dual fuel capability means that she is able to burn both marine diesel, and Liquid Natural Gas (LNG), as advertised on her hull. As well as being fitted with standard bunker fuel tanks, ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ is also fitted with two LNG tanks, each with a capacity of 2,000 m3. As well as her Tier III compliant main engine, she is also fitted with a hybrid lithium battery system, which is connected to two banks of solar panels, running each side along her upper bridge deck.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
Her eco credentials of operating with dual fuel does come with a caveat. LNG can curb carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by about a quarter, compared to conventional marine bunker fuels, but there is always a ‘but’. The ‘but’ is that methane emissions of LNG can be 36 times more potent as a greenhouse gas (GHG), compared to carbon dioxide, over a longer period of time, as long as a century, according to a World Bank study.
As a PCTC, ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ has 12 decks, some of which are hoistable, and she can carry the car equivalent units of 7,000 CEU. Loading takes place via a starboard quarter Ro-Ro ramp, as well as being fitted with a smaller starboard side Ro-Ro ramp. Interestingly, and bizarrely, she is also given a container carrying capacity of 1 TEU, and is fitted with 1 reefer plug.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
She is the fourth of four sisterships, all given the names of Formula One car racing circuits, with her sisterships being named, in order of delivery, ‘CMA CGM Indianapolis’, ‘CMA CGM Monaco’, ‘CMA CGM Monza’, and of course Silverstone being the home of the British Grand Prix. It was only in 2023 that CMA CGM decided to enter the PCTC market, with ‘CMA CGM Indianapolis’ entering service in December 2023, and ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ being the last to enter service in July 2024.
Owned by Eastern Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd., of Singapore, ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ is operated by CMA CGM The French Line, of Marseille in France, and is managed by Eastern Pacific Shipping (UK) Ltd., of London in the UK. Both she, and her sisterships, are on long term charter to CEVA Logistics, also of Marseille in France, who are the logistics subsidiary of CMA CGM. CEVA Logistics expect to transport 140,000 vehicles per annum to Europe, with all vehicles being shipped from South Korea and China.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
The loading ports in South Korea are Gwangyang, Pyeongtaek, and Ulsan, with mostly Hyundai and KIA vehicles being loaded. Chinese loading ports being Huangpu, Tianjin, Yantai, and Shanghai. Loading ports vary with each voyage, as do discharge ports in Europe. She is utilised on the new CMA CGM Asia Europe Car Carrier 01 (AE01) route, with her first European discharge port on this voyage being Antwerp in Belgium.
The European discharge ports that ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ has utilised in the past year have been Bremerhaven and Emden in Germany, Zeebrugge and Antwerp in Belgium, Rotterdam in Holland, Immingham, Tilbury and Southampton in the UK, and Setubal in Portugal. Her call at both Hambantota and Durban is not associated with this route, and may be a ‘one off’ call.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
On this current voyage, that brings her to Durban for her maiden call, ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ loaded Hyundai vehicles at Gwangyang, then proceeded to continue loading at both Yantai and Shanghai, before heading to Hambantota. This was her first call at this contentious port, and was for purposes not of discharging vehicles, but of loading transshipment vehicles that had been left waiting there for her to pick up, and transport on to Casablanca in Morocco.
The casual maritime observer, who keeps abreast of international shipping news, will be aware of the history of the port of Hambantota in Sri Lanka. It was built for the, now discredited, former Sri Lankan government by Chinese state owned construction companies, with loans provided by Chinese state owned banks.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Durban, 31 March 2025. Picture by Jumaine Kruger
The Sri Lankan government then struggled to repay these loans, and the Chinese government took control of the port in lieu of debt, and now run the whole enterprise. It is probably the best example of what is termed ‘Debt Trap Diplomacy’, something that the Chinese Government is often accused of, although there are equal arguments against that accusation.
As with all PCTC calls at South African ports, the discharge period are quick, based on the nature of the cargo that they carry, and after just over 30 hours alongside the Point Terminal ‘CMA CGM Silverstone’ was ready to sail. She sailed from Durban on 1st April, at 10:00 in the morning and, as expected, her AIS indicated that she was now bound for Casablanca in Morocco, and with an ETA there in the early evening of 15th April.
CMA CGM Silverstone. Picture by Martin Klingsick, courtesy Shipspotting
CMA CGM are the third largest of the big three container ship operators in the world, behind MSC and Maersk, and are regular callers at Durban, which not only includes routes that link South Africa with Sri Lanka, as well as many other routes, as well as CMA CGM having no less than 14 calls a week at Colombo in Sri Lanka.
However, it is not likely that a regular connection between Sri Lanka and South Africa in the international vehicle market is likely. As such, this may be the only time the casual maritime observer gets to spot what is both new, and a rarity, that of a CMA CGM Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) in a South African port. One can only hope that this view is wrong, and that this trade will increase, and more CMA CGM PCTC vessels will call in the future.
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**Hapag-Lloyd to retrofit five large container ships for methanol fuel**
Picture: Hapag-Lloyd
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
### **In a significant move towards greener shipping, German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd has announced plans to retrofit five of its 10,100 TEU container vessels to run on methanol.**
The initiative, undertaken in partnership with Seaspan Corporation and MAN Energy Solutions, marks a crucial step in the company’s long-term decarbonization strategy.
The decision follows a successful test of a retrofitted MAN S90 engine conducted by MAN Energy Solutions and Hitachi Zosen Marine Engine in Japan.
This breakthrough has demonstrated that large container ships can effectively transition from traditional fossil fuels to methanol, a more sustainable alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions.
According to Hapag-Lloyd, the five converted vessels could cut CO2 emissions by 30,000 to 50,000 metric tonnes annually—comparable to removing thousands of cars from the roads.
### **50 Container ships earmarked**
The company has already earmarked more than fifty ships in its fleet for similar upgrades as it strives to meet its 2045 decarbonization goal.
Dr. Maximilian Rothkopf, Chief Operating Officer at Hapag-Lloyd, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating: “Our methanol retrofit project is another step on our journey to decarbonize our entire fleet by 2045.
By making these ships methanol-ready by 2026, we’re not only shrinking our carbon footprint—we’re also meeting the growing demand for greener transport solutions from our customers.”
With global shipping accounting for nearly 3% of worldwide carbon emissions, the industry faces mounting pressure to adopt cleaner fuels. Methanol, seen as a promising alternative, produces fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants compared to conventional marine fuels.
Hapag-Lloyd’s initiative aligns with a broader industry trend, as more shipping companies explore alternative fuels to meet stricter environmental regulations.
The success of these retrofits could pave the way for wider adoption of methanol-fueled vessels, accelerating the maritime sector’s shift towards sustainability.
Added 2 April 2025
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News continues below
**‘Liberation Day’ tariffs will ‘change the rules of game’ for global trade – Xeneta**
Image – Xeneta
**_Africa_ Ports & Ships**
## **But significant uplift in ocean or air freight rates not expected in short term**
**Reciprocal tariffs announced by Donald Trump on ‘Liberation Day’ could prevent shippers from making important decisions on supply chains, but are not likely to cause an immediate spike in freight rates.**
“Liberation Day will not feel very liberating for those shippers caught in the eye of the tariff storm,” said Peter Sand, Chief Analyst at Xeneta – the ocean and air freight intelligence platform.
“It is tough to make important decisions on your supply chain when the rules of the game keep changing.
Peter Sand
“Many US shippers are right at the point of agreeing new long-term ocean container freight contracts coming into effect on 1 May, so this puts them in an extremely difficult position. Where will they be importing goods from in the next 12 months and which carrier should they choose? he said.
The tariffs will increase the overall landed cost of importing goods, but Sand has stated the downward trend in ocean container spot rates since 1 January is likely to continue.
He said: “At this point we do not expect significant upward pressure on ocean container freight rates. Carriers did push spot rate increases on trades from the Far East to US on 1 April, but these are unlikely to stick as they come off the back of steady market decline since 1 January and subdued demand in February and March.
“The falling demand in February and March is partly due to increased volumes in January in the pre-Lunar New Year rush, but also because shippers are easing off from the frontloading we saw throughout 2024.
“Once the tariff situation becomes clearer and shippers begin to diversify supply chains across regions, it is possible we could see disruption in ocean supply chains and upward pressure on rates, but this may be a little further down the line.”
Average spot rates from the Far East increased 8% into the US East Coast and 15% into the US West Coast on 1 April, however they are down 43% and 49% since 1 January respectively.
It is a similar scenario for the air cargo market, with analysts not expecting significant increases in rates in the immediate aftermath of the tariffs.
## **Air Cargo**
Niall van de Wouw, Chief Airfreight Officer, said that time and again, air cargo supply chain professionals have proven their resilience and they will show the same calm determination in the face of the tariff threat.
“We saw an uptick in air cargo rates from China and Europe to the US at the end of March but nothing to set alarm bells ringing. The more likely scenario is a decrease in air cargo rates if tariffs result in higher prices and lower consumer demand.
“We could also see lower demand for US exports if there is growing anti-US sentiment across consumers in regions hit by the tariffs. Consumer sentiment has the potential to be even more powerful than tariffs.
“We should also consider there will be more capacity added to these trades in the coming weeks as airlines start summer schedules, which will also put downward pressure on rates.”
Air cargo spot rates currently stand at USD 4.16 per kg from Shanghai to US, down from the peak season high of USD 5.75 in the week ending 10 November. Spot rates from Western Europe to the US stand at USD 2.16 per kg, down from the peak season high of USD 3.51 in the week ending 15 December.
Van de Wouw believes proposals to introduce fees against Chinese ships and carriers entering US ports poses a more substantial risk to air supply chains, if it is approved following a two-day public hearing last week.
“The proposed fees on Chinese vessels and carriers entering US ports could have a more significant impact if congestion in ocean container supply chains causes shippers to move more goods by air,” he said.
“With around 98% of the world’s goods transported by ocean it doesn’t take much of a percentage shift to have major implications for air freight, as we saw during Covid-19 and the Red Sea crisis.”
Added 2 April 2025
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# **GENERAL NEWS REPORTS**
Updated through the day
### in partnership with – APO
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Distributed by APO Group
**More Shipping News athttps://africaports.co.za/category/News/**
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## **THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK**
### _“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.”_
### – Jim Bishop (1907–1987)
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Earlier News at **https://africaports.co.za/category/News/**
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# **TO ADVERTISE HERE**
Request a Rate Card from info@africaports.co.za
_Port Louis – Indian Ocean gateway port_
#### **_Africa_ Ports & Ships **publishes regularly updated **SHIP MOVEMENT** reports including ETAs for ports extending from West Africa to South Africa to East Africa and including Port Louis in Mauritius.
#### In the case of South Africa’s container ports of Durban, Ngqura, Ports Elizabeth and Cape Town links to container Stack Dates are also available.
#### You can access this information, including the list of ports covered, by **CLICKING HERE** remember to use your BACKSPACE to return to this page.
News continues below
## **CRUISE NEWS AND NAVAL ACTIVITIES**
_QM2 in Cape Town. Picture by Ian Shiffman_
We publish news about the **cruise industry** here in the general news section.
## **Naval News**
Similarly you can read our regular **Naval News** reports and stories here in the general news section.
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# **ADVERTISING**
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Don’t forget to send us your news and press releases for inclusion in the News Bulletins. Shipping related pictures submitted by readers are always welcome. Email to info@africaports.co.za
### **Total cargo handled by tonnes during February 2025, including containers by weight**
* see full report for the latest month and year in the news section
**PORT** | **February 2025 – million tonnes**
---|---
Richards Bay | 7.092
Durban | 6,201
Saldanha Bay | 5.425
Cape Town | 1.457
Port Elizabeth | 0.946
Ngqura | 1.436
Mossel Bay | 0.074
East London | 0.358
|
**Total all ports during February 2025** | **22.990** million tonnes
###
### =================
Terry Hutson
Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news 11 April 2025 Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news Here ...
africaports.co.za/2025/04/11/africa-ports-...
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1 year ago
Can he fool a self-driving #monorail ?
Has he ever riden the #WVUPRT ?
How about abt an #AirLander or an #Aeroscraft
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1 year ago
Hey, try conversations about #monorail as diversity in ground transportation or #LTA as alternative air travel for cargo or passenger...
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‘The flying bum’: can a UK firm making huge airships finally get off the ground?
Airlander maker HAV scales up to build world’s biggest aircraft, which it says will have 90% lower emissions than a conventional plane
I've been following this project for what feels like forever: time to "make it so..." www.theguardian.com/business/202...
#flyingbum
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Tom Grundy, the HAV chief executive since 2019, says the Airlander can go “in between the two extremes” of fast but polluting and expensive planes, and cleaner, cheaper but much slower ferries. For short plane journeys run by regional airlines, the costs of operation using an Airlander “are at or below the cost of what they’re operating today” with smaller passenger planes, he says.
this is the sort of innovation we need, but also "big butts!"
#HAV #Airlander #Airships #ClimateChange
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Original post on mastodon.social
"I Like Big Butts And I Cannot Lie"
Seriously though, we need these things to bring down aircraft emissions.
Also it's the 21 Century and we need more large things in the sky, advertising 'a new life, Offworld' […]
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1 year ago
Don't know but have you seen an #AirLander or #SkyDragon ?
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1 year ago
AirVehicles
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Feb 29
We’re excited to share HAV have submitted the Airlander 10 Type Certification application marking the formal start of the certification process for the future fleet of Airlander 10. Read the announcement hybridairvehicles.com/news-and-med... #Airlander #RethinkTheSkies #CAA
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4 years ago
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