FG upholds commitment in reducing Shipping cost

The Federal Government has affirmed its commitment towards reducing cost of shipping to boost trade in Africa.

Vice President Yemi Osibanjo declared at the Sub-Regional Summit on Unfair Shipping Surcharges and High Local Shipping Charges at the Ports of West and Central Africa in Abuja.

Represented by the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, he said Federal Government was aware of the disturbing cost of transportation of goods through the ports in the sub-region due to freight rates and arbitrary imposed surcharges.

The vice president stated that the aim of the summit was to adopt a common position on how to reduce the incidences of unfair surcharges and related issues.

“This can be done through the constitution of a standing group of experts to represent the sub-region and engage ship owners on surcharges and related issues.”, he explained 

Ameachi, in his address emphasized the need for UASC member states to collaborate to check activities of shipping lines servicing the ports in the sub-region

He stressed the need for a direct consultation with the ship owners rather than use of third parties to reduce cost.

Mr Hassan Bello, the Executive Secretary of NSC, while reiterating the importance of collaboration between UASC member states, said NSC had been engaging Nigeria’s shipping lines on reduction of shipping charges.

According to him, reduction of cost is the responsibility of all stakeholders including the government in ensuring the provision of modern, efficient, integrated and connected transport infrastructure.