MAERSK Line, the world’s largest container carrier, expects modest growth for the Philippine shipping industry this year.
“The key driver of growth remains private consumption, hence a slower world growth would slightly depress demand for Philippine exports in key markets,” Maersk Line country manager Sylvia Ding told PortCalls.
“In order to maximize growth, improvement of infrastructure such as road networks and ports is crucial to raise investment in the economy and boost growth in the agricultural and industrial sectors,” Ding said.
“In addition, the shipping industry will benefit from more market statistics being made available by port and customs authorities. Increased visibility for the industry on new markets and emerging segments will create opportunities to hasten economic growth,” she added.
The last two years were challenging ones for Maersk Line — as with all other international container shipping lines — with rates and supply reaching all-time lows due to the global economic crisis.
Recovery began to show at the start of the second quarter of 2010, resulting in increased inbound and outbound volumes, more vessel calls and capacity for Maersk Line.
Last year, the carrier opened up new markets for Philippine exporters, particularly banana producers, with the deployment of its StarCare reefer equipment. According to the company website, StarCare is an exclusive Maersk Line technology in selected reefer containers, especially designed to carry bananas on routes with transit times over 30 days.
As a result, the carrier can now offer access to almost any market place globally through the use of StarCare, in affordable shipment sizes down to 20 pallets.
