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Tilbury and Zeebrugge sign container pact
[ June 20, 2013 // Chris ]Forth Ports has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Port of Zeebrugge to explore mutual opportunities to attract new container cargo.
Both ports have complementary assets both in current trade arrangements and geography. The agreement will initially focus on enhancing container cargo volumes at Port of Zeebrugge and London Container Terminal (LCT) in Tilbury, the UK’s third largest of its kind.
Zeebrugge’s container volumes are largely dominated by deepsea Far East volumes, while LCT is strong position in South America. LCT at Tilbury has a unique position near London, while Zeebrugge his near the seagoing trade lanes. Zeebrugge also has a significant South America cargo base demand while Tilbury is an excellent gateway for Far East cargo for the London consumer markets.
Independent business advisors Maritime & Transport Business Solutions (MTBS) completed the market analysis for LCT which has led to the MoU. MTBS will remain on board to provide further support as the project develops.
Forth Ports’ chief operating officer, Perry Glading, said: “Using a regular feeder service from Zeebrugge we offer an alternative to large deep sea vessels who need only make one call at the Belgium ports for the onward feed service to the UK. We have a significant investment programme underway at LCT and have already installed a new ICT system, purchased 14 new straddle carriers and installed a new single lock gate. We look forward to working with MBZ at Zeebrugge on this important project.”
Zeebrugge’s CEO, Joachim Coens, added: “From way back Zeebrugge acts as a bridgehead for the British markets, in particular the London area. By strengthening the ties with Tilbury, we aim at enhancing cargo flows.”
