The container terminal operator at the Lagos Port Complex, APM Terminals, has revealed that due to a sustained surge in import cargo volumes in recent weeks, foreign shipping lines have had to prioritize discharging incoming laden containers over evacuating empty ones.
Responding to enquiries from the Nigerian Tribune regarding the congestion of empty containers at its terminal, APM Terminals’ Manager, Steen Knudsen, stated that the management of empty container evacuation into the terminal—and their subsequent shipment onto vessels—is the exclusive responsibility of shipping lines, which own and control all containers.
According to Knudsen,
“There have been insinuations suggesting that APM Terminals Apapa is not receiving empty containers, allegedly contributing to yard congestion. However, the terminal operator has clarified that the management of empty container evacuation into the terminal—and their subsequent shipment onto vessels—is the exclusive responsibility of shipping lines, which own and control all containers.”
He added:
“Due to a sharp and sustained surge in import cargo volumes in recent weeks, shipping lines have had to prioritize discharging incoming laden containers over evacuating empties. This operational shift has resulted in a growing inventory of empty containers within the terminal, significantly limiting yard space.
As a result of this accumulation, APM Terminals Apapa has had to temporarily restrict the reception of additional empty containers until the existing stock is cleared by the shipping lines.”
Knudsen continued,
“We recognize the impact this may have on truck operators, consignees, and landside logistics, and we are actively engaging the shipping lines and relevant government authorities to expedite the evacuation of empty containers by vessels.”
ALSO READ:FG reaffirms commitment to innovative border, migration management
The Terminal Manager emphasized that the situation is not a result of failure in terminal operations, but rather a systemic issue arising from the imbalance in container traffic.
“Shipping lines play a key role in ensuring containers are loaded out as empties once they are returned. Unfortunately, the high volume of imports is tipping that balance. We are committed to doing everything within our operational capacity to support the clearing of this backlog,” he said.
APM Terminals Apapa is appealing to landside customers, truck operators, and other stakeholders to bear with the temporary restrictions and delays in receiving empties, while assuring them that every effort is being made to normalize the situation.
“APM Terminals Apapa remains steadfast in its commitment to professionalism, efficient service delivery, and partnership with stakeholders to ensure the Nigerian supply chain keeps moving,” Knudsen concluded.
Recall that truckers had earlier lamented that due to the terminal’s lack of acceptance of empty containers, many of them are losing jobs while incurring unnecessary parking fees.
and then