Suspension of activities in Maputo port and closure of border between South Africa causes disruption
In recent times the Port of Maputo and the export corridor through the Komati Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique has been extremely important for all South African exports, but particularly citrus growers in the north of the country.
That is why this week’s suspension of activities in the port by Grindrod, and the closure of the main crossing of the border, will cause some concern amongst exporters.
These events are the result of disputed election results in Mozambique and widespread violence in the country.
From a fruit point of view these disruptions come at the end of the season – and therefore should not have much immediate effect on the sector.
Instability in Mozambique will cause concern because it almost inevitably results in a migration of people.
“The closure of the Lebombo border post between South Africa and Mozambique, and the resultant disruption to cargo moving through the Maputo Port, has amounted to losses of approximately R5bn so far,” Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association, told media sources.
“The disruptions are currently mainly for cargo moving out of South Africa,” he noted. “We do know that various authorities have advised that transport companies should not attempt to cross into Mozambique.”
Maputo Port and the fresh produce terminal have in recent years received accolades from the South African industry, and are seen as important in taking some of the pressure off the terminals in Durban.
It is fairly close to the north-eastern fruit growing regions and increased callings by shipping lines have boosted activities in the port.
Some industry sources have said it could also play a major role in avocado exports to new markets in the Fars East and Asia, as well as to India.
Meanwhile intense diplomatic efforts are underway in the country to resolve the dispute between the opposition parties, supporters and the government amid claims of election fraud.
