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experts from not only South Africa , but the continent and beyond , sharing their experiences and recommendations :
The business , economic , and container outlook : In April 2017 , the World Bank cut its growth outlook for Africa . After recording the worst decline in more than two decades in 2016 , economic growth in Africa is expected to be 2.6 % this year and should rise to 3.2 % in 2018 . The region is showing signs of recovery , with the continent ’ s largest economies — Nigeria , Angola and , of course , South Africa — starting to rebound from the worst of the slowdown brought on by the commodity price crash . In this fragile economy , how can the region drive private sector growth and foster a more robust recovery and economic stimulus ?
The race to be a hub port : Many African countries are racing to become one of the region ’ s leading hub ports . Scattered over the whole of the African continent , heavy investment and expansion of the port as well as hinterland infrastructure are continuing . The goal for each project is to become the main regional gateway , increasing its role of becoming a hub port for transit and trans-shipment cargo , thereby serving as a reliable and efficient interchange for imports and exports .
Hinterland connectivity : African countries continue to be challenged by the lack of a comprehensive national highway system .
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Limited rail services mean cargo must be moved by road , which causes congestion , adding costs and delays . With trade corridors being developed , they look towards Maputo and Walvis Bay as important examples in the region . How can the region look to improve cross-border connectivity ?
Port capacity and port performance : Except for South Africa , the region struggles to accommodate ships of more than 3 000 TEU and when these ships dock , productivity at the ports averages between 7 and 20 moves per hour per crane ; this is against a worldwide standard of around 25 , a number which many argue is still not enough . Investment is needed to expand and improve the size of the ports across the region and in the era of the mega ship , to be able to accommodate and process the high levels of cargo that this region sees .
Customs : Africa experiences the highest average customs delays in the world . Clearances and cargo inspections contribute to 75 % of trade facilitation delays and cripple the movement of cargo across the region . According to the World Bank , the average time for import is 36 days whilst the global average is 24 days .
Security : International piracy continues to plague the region , with attacks around Somalia increasing significantly . With a
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multitude of supply chain security risks , shippers and logistics partners need to be aware of the challenges of moving goods around the world .
Bulk logistics and technology : Africa was once touted as the ‘ final frontier ’ for the dry bulk market , but challenges presented by exporting raw materials from the continent remain . TOC Africa will keep delegates up to date with the latest innovations in dry bulk materials handling , shipping , port operations , and logistics
TECH TOC
The Port Equipment and Terminal Operations ( Tech TOC ) talks were hosted in the exhibition venue . Here , case studies from exhibitors who have equipped African ports were heard . Rather than focusing solely on the very latest technology and equipment , the event looked at where equipment specifically suited to the African market has been successful .
As container terminals face a perfect storm of big ships , carrier consolidation , and lower growth , the focus last year was on how to cut waste , boost efficiency , and build resilient , adaptive , constantly improving operations , in particular .
The conference was quite sophisticated , and delegates could download the app to do things like ask questions to the moderator anonymously , take part in industry polls , or view the conference agendas , speaker lists , exhibitor lists , and more .
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THE EXHIBITION
As mentioned , the conference was colocated with an exhibition . Delegates had to walk through the exhibition hall to get to the conference venue and all meals were served in this space , allowing plenty of time for people to walk around , see what ’ s on offer , and network .
A total of 45 exhibitors booked their spot for the inaugural TOC Africa .
A TASTE OF DURBAN
The conference and exhibition days were followed by inspirational evening events at local Durban landmarks , giving delegates the opportunity to network while enjoying the best of Durban culture .
Delegates were treated to a cocktail party at Ushaka Marine World on the first night , where buses transported everyone to and from the venue on the rainy night . With an assortment of local cuisine ( including bunny chows ) and entertainment , it really was a first of its kind experience for many of the international visitors .
On the following night , visitors were taken to the Moses Mabhida Stadium for the official gala dinner .
COMING BACK IN 2019
The next edition of the event is due to take place in September 2019 , once again with the full support of the KZN Provincial Government and Transnet Group . CLA
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