SUCCESSFUL EXPORTS FOR FRUIT TERMINAL

28 October 2003

Mozambique Produce Terminal (MPT) just finalised the current fruit season with a 25% increase in throughput of first class fruit in comparison with last year’s export quantities. The fruit was exported for the first time to Mediterranean ports, besides Northern Europe and the Middle East, where the citrus normally goes.

"This was a very good year for us", said Paulo Franco, General Manager of MPT. "In the first place because we realized our growth targets and, in the second place, because we have fulfilled all requirements to obtain the ISO 9001/2000 certified status. This allows us to offer a more efficient and smoother service to our customers, which in turn lowers their costs".

Franco commented further, that the recent privatisation of Port Maputo has had a positive impact on their operations. "Night sailings are as regular as day sailings now and that is a big advantage. This means there is no unnecessary waiting time".

Paulo Franco is optimistic about the next fruit season and MPT will put its growth objectives up another 25%. ´The market is there and we have the capacity to deliver´, he said. "And when the Komatipoort border post is open 24 hours per day, we can offer an even more cost effective operation".

Alec Don, CEO of Maputo Port Development Company, added that MPDC is focussing on quick turn around times of vessels with a good quality service. "We are obtaining good results for both our marine and stevedoring operations and believe there is an excellent opportunity for customers to enhance their international competitiveness by increasing their focus on the Maputo Corridor."

 

FURTHER INFORMATION:
Sonia Mota
Tel: +258 1 313 920
Fax: +258 1 313 921
E-mail: sonia.mota@portmaputo.com
Picture available upon request.