MAERSK's port operator APM Terminals Apapa has blamed shipping lines for port congestion as they failed take away empty containers that clog Nigerian cargo flow, reports the Lagos-based Vanguard news agency.
APMT terminal manager Steen Knudsen rejected blame heaped on terminal operators for not accepting empties as the 'claim was misleading'.
Mr Knudsen said congestion stems from a surge in import cargo volumes, which has led shipping lines to prioritise the discharge of laden containers over the evacuation of empties.
'The management of empty container evacuation into the terminal and their shipment out on vessels is the exclusive responsibility of shipping lines, which own and control the containers,' he said.
Mr Knudsen explained that the current imbalance has resulted in an accumulation of empty containers within the terminal, significantly reducing available yard space and forcing APM Terminals to temporarily restrict the reception of additional empties.
'We recognize the impact this may have on truck operators, consignees and the broader logistics chain. That is why we are actively engaging shipping lines and relevant government authorities to expedite the evacuation process,' he said.
He stressed that the issue is not due to operational failures at the terminal but rather a systemic imbalance in container traffic management.
'Shipping lines play a key role in ensuring containers are loaded out as empties once they are returned. Unfortunately, the high volume of imports is tipping that balance,' he said.
SeaNews Turkey
APMT terminal manager Steen Knudsen rejected blame heaped on terminal operators for not accepting empties as the 'claim was misleading'.
Mr Knudsen said congestion stems from a surge in import cargo volumes, which has led shipping lines to prioritise the discharge of laden containers over the evacuation of empties.
'The management of empty container evacuation into the terminal and their shipment out on vessels is the exclusive responsibility of shipping lines, which own and control the containers,' he said.
Mr Knudsen explained that the current imbalance has resulted in an accumulation of empty containers within the terminal, significantly reducing available yard space and forcing APM Terminals to temporarily restrict the reception of additional empties.
'We recognize the impact this may have on truck operators, consignees and the broader logistics chain. That is why we are actively engaging shipping lines and relevant government authorities to expedite the evacuation process,' he said.
He stressed that the issue is not due to operational failures at the terminal but rather a systemic imbalance in container traffic management.
'Shipping lines play a key role in ensuring containers are loaded out as empties once they are returned. Unfortunately, the high volume of imports is tipping that balance,' he said.
SeaNews Turkey
