Climate

The recession has left its mark on the shipping industry

Halfway through the first quarter of 2010, there were increasing signs that things were starting to look up again for the international shipping industry as the global economy began improving, but there still are many uncertainties around.

A change in climate and technology to transform shipping

The combined impact of climate change, the drive to minimise the effect of propulsion emissions and the transportation of ballast water between continents, and the growing need to find alternative technologies for the depleting resources of fossil fuel are set to dramatically change the face of global shipping in the decades to come.

South African harbours are expanding to prepare for the next upturn

While shipping volumes are expected to continue taking a hit over (at least) the rest of this year due to the effects of the global economic downturn, upgrades and expansions in South African harbours are set to proceed in preparation for the next upturn.

Economic conditions and climate pressures could slow down the shipping industry

A combination of factors such as the global economic downturn, increasing capacity stemming from the boom times and cost pressures associated with calls for a cleaner and greener shipping industry, could make for a tough year or more for the freight sector. But, it is also the time to prepare infrastructure for the upswing ahead.