20 Jun 13 - 10:28
Aiming at attracting new container cargo volumes
Forth Ports Limited and Port of Zeebrugge / MBZ signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which marks the start of a strategic agreement between the Port companies with the aim of the exploring mutual opportunities to attract new container cargo volumes.
Both ports have complementary assets both in current trade arrangements and geographical positioning and through this MoU, Forth Ports and Port of Zeebrugge have agreed to explore initiatives to develop these current trade links and connections. The agreement will initially focus on enhancing container cargo volumes at Port of Zeebrugge and London Container Terminal (LCT) in Tilbury which is the UK's 3rd largest container terminal.
Zeebrugge's container volumes are largely dominated by deepsea Far East volumes, while LCT has a particularly strong position on the South America trades. LCT at Tilbury has a unique geographical position as London's key port, while Zeebrugge has a unique deep-water location 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 being agreed by both Ports. MTBS will remain on board to provide further support as the project develops.
Source: Port of Zeebrugge
