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SMSA Africa Logistics Group breaks ground on major logistics hub

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SMSA Africa Logistics Group breaks ground on major logistics hub

As regional trade volumes continue to grow across Southern Africa, investment in warehousing, fleet operations and integrated logistics facilities is becoming just as important as investment in roads and border efficiency. Consequently, SMSA Africa Logistics Group has officially broken ground on a major new logistics facility that will expand capacity, improve operational efficiency and reinforce the company’s long-term commitment to regional supply chains.

Speaking at the official ground-breaking ceremony, Louis Ungerer, SMSA Africa Logistics Group Managing Director, described the development as both a celebration of the company’s journey and a foundation for its future.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the history of our business and one that fills us with immense pride, gratitude and excitement. We have gathered here not only to break ground on a new facility but to celebrate a journey that began more than two decades ago and to look ahead to an even brighter future.”

Built on more than two decades of logistics experience
Ungerer reflected on the company’s origins, explaining that Namlog was established in 2002 with a simple but ambitious vision of providing reliable, innovative and customer-focused logistics solutions throughout Southern Africa.

“Through hard work, determination and an unwavering commitment to our customers, we built a reputation as one of the region’s most trusted supply chain partners.”

Since then, the business has grown into a leading regional logistics provider serving customers across South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Along the way, it has developed long-standing partnerships across the mining, automotive, FMCG, engineering and retail sectors.

Today the company operates as SMSA Africa Logistics Group while retaining the values on which Namlog was founded.

“Today, while we proudly operate as SMSA Africa Logistics Group, we remain deeply rooted in the legacy and values that built Namlog. Strengthened by the global reach and support of SMSA, we continue to provide the same trusted logistics solutions with greater scale, enhanced technology and expanded capabilities.”

Investing through changing market conditions
Ungerer acknowledged that the company’s growth has come despite significant economic and operational challenges.

“Economic uncertainty, changing markets, evolving customer expectations and the complexities of cross-border logistics have all tested our resilience. Yet through every challenge, our people have demonstrated an extraordinary ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver.”

Today SMSA Africa Logistics Group employs more than 870 people, operates a fleet of over 470 vehicles and uses its own advanced Transport Management System to provide visibility and performance across customer supply chains. “These investments have allowed us to continually raise the standard of service we provide to our customers.”

Customer-led logistics remains the strategy
Rather than offering standardised logistics products, the company continues to build tailored supply chain solutions around individual customer requirements.

“At SMSA, there are no off-the-shelf solutions because no two businesses are the same. We believe in rolling up our sleeves, listening to our customers’ needs and understanding their unique challenges and developing tailor-made, 360-degree logistics solutions that create measurable value.”

Ungerer said this philosophy has underpinned the company’s growth since inception and explains why many customers have remained with the business for more than two decades.

The group’s services today include contract logistics, dedicated fleet distribution, local and cross-border transport, abnormal load handling, supply chain optimisation and warehouse solutions.

A foundation for future growth
For Ungerer, the new development represents considerably more than additional warehouse space. “This facility is far more than bricks, mortar, steel and concrete. It represents our belief in the future. It represents our confidence in our people, our customers, and the economies of the region we serve.”

He said the investment will significantly expand operational capability, increase capacity, improve efficiencies and create additional opportunities through a new third-party logistics warehouse. “It will enable us to better support our customers as they expand their own businesses, while positioning SMSA for the next chapter of its journey.”

Transformation and quality remain key priorities
Ungerer said the project also reflects SMSA’s ongoing commitment to transformation and sustainable growth through enterprise development, skills development and broader economic participation.

He highlighted the company’s partnership with Ninathi Holdings, its 26% equity ownership by black-owned enterprises, Level 2 B-BBEE status and continued investment in bursaries, learnerships, training and enterprise development initiatives.

He also pointed to the successful completion of the company’s ISO 9001:2015 certification audit as further evidence of SMSA’s commitment to quality management, continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Building the next chapter
Closing the ceremony, Ungerer said the development represents an investment in both the business and the wider Southern African economy.

“As we stand here today, we are not simply breaking ground. We are laying the foundation for future opportunities. We are creating capacity for future growth. We are investing in future jobs. And we are strengthening our ability to connect businesses, communities, and economies across Southern Africa.”

Thanking customers, employees, shareholders and business partners, he reflected on how far the business has come since its founding in 2002.

“The dream that started in 2002 has grown beyond what many of us could have imagined. Yet today is not the destination. It is the beginning of our next chapter. Together, we look forward to building a facility that will support our ambitions, strengthen our service offering, and enable us to continue delivering logistics solutions built for growth.”

Editor’s Comment: Southern Africa’s freight sector cannot expand without corresponding investment in logistics infrastructure. Modern warehousing, integrated fleet operations and technology-enabled supply chains improve efficiency well beyond a single operator, strengthening the competitiveness of entire industries that depend on reliable freight movement. SMSA Africa Logistics Group’s latest development is therefore more than a corporate milestone – it is another vote of confidence in the long-term growth of regional logistics and the role freight operators will continue to play in connecting Southern Africa’s economies.

Undocumented Truck Driver Arrested After Allegedly Fleeing Crash Scene Near King Shaka Airport

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Undocumented Truck Driver Arrested After Allegedly Fleeing Crash Scene Near King Shaka Airport

A truck crash on the M65 near King Shaka International Airport in KwaZulu-Natal took an unexpected turn on Monday after an undocumented truck driver was arrested for allegedly fleeing the scene and attempting to conceal his identity.

According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), its Operations Centre received multiple calls for assistance at approximately 11:33 on Monday, 13 July 2026. Reaction Officers were immediately dispatched to the crash scene in La Mercy.

When officers arrived, they found a white Nissan Diesel truck lying on its side after it had allegedly failed to negotiate a sharp bend on the M65.

RUSA said a man at the scene identified himself as the truck’s conductor and claimed that the driver had fled before first responders arrived.

However, moments later, the same man allegedly ran into nearby bushes, prompting Reaction Officers and a security officer from a private security company to give chase.

N3 Cliffdale Crash: Zambian Truck Driver Arrested After Fleeing The Scene

A Zambian truck driver who allegedly caused a major crash on the N3 near Cliffdale on Thursday morning has been arrested after attempting to flee the scene.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, confirmed that while multiple vehicles were involved and one person was critically injured, there were no fatalities.

“We are relieved that no one died from this major accident that disrupted traffic flow and inconvenienced hundreds of motorists. We wish those injured a speedy recovery,” said Duma.He commended the Road Traffic Inspectorate for their swift action in apprehending the driver, who allegedly tried to run away after the accident. “I commend our highly dedicated team from Road Traffic Inspectorate, who apprehended the truck driver. I have also mandated them to work with SAPS to ensure a successful conviction. Importantly, we want to establish whether he had the relevant documents authorising him to drive,” Duma added.

The MEC also linked the incident to the broader challenge of heavy trucks on South African roads, welcoming Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy’s announcement on the completion of the adjudication process for new Train Operating Companies (TOCs).

“For us in KwaZulu-Natal, we are looking forward to the movement of cargo from road to rail. The new entrants on the north corridor will be responsible for 15 routes carrying coal and chrome, which should move an additional 20 million tonnes of freight per annum from 2026/27. This means fewer trucks and fewer accidents on our major routes,” Duma explained.

He reminded the public of recent tragedies, including the Empangeni crash on the N2 that claimed nine lives, and stressed that reckless and irresponsible drivers will face tough consequences. “In August alone, we arrested more than 160 motorists for drunken driving,” he said.

RFA and SAFLA Join Forces to Push Faster Border Crossings and Lower Freight Costs in South Africa

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RFA and SAFLA Join Forces to Push Faster Border Crossings and Lower Freight Costs in South Africa

South Africa’s road freight and logistics industries have taken a significant step towards improving the efficiency of cross-border trade after the Road Freight Association (RFA) and the South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at tackling customs delays, border inefficiencies and rising supply chain costs.

The strategic partnership is expected to strengthen the industry’s voice when engaging government on critical issues affecting freight movement, including customs modernisation, border digitalisation, trade facilitation and regulatory reforms. The ultimate goal is to reduce delays that continue to cost transporters and businesses valuable time and money.

According to RFA CEO Gavin Kelly, the agreement reflects the reality that the road freight sector is closely connected to every part of the logistics chain.

Kelly said that by formally aligning with SAFLA, the RFA will be able to extend its advocacy efforts into the freight forwarding sector while presenting government with a united industry position instead of fragmented proposals.

“Multiple voices, speaking in concert, carry far greater weight than any one association speaking alone,” he added.

SAFLA Executive Officer Dave Logan echoed the sentiment, saying collaboration has become essential in an increasingly complex freight environment.

“Our members operate at the interface of customs, border management, regulatory compliance and international trade. They face challenges that no single association can resolve alone.”

He said SAFLA is particularly encouraged by the progress already being made through the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Stakeholder Forums, where the new partnership will bring stronger representation for road freight operators.

What the Partnership Means for Transporters

The Memorandum identifies several priority areas that directly affect freight operators, including:

  • Faster customs clearance through modernised SARS processes.
  • Digitalisation of Other Government Agency (OGA) procedures to reduce paperwork.
  • Development of Smart Border systems.
  • Improved trade facilitation between South Africa and neighbouring countries.
  • Joint efforts to identify and resolve recurring supply chain bottlenecks.
  • Capacity building and process mapping to improve operational efficiency.

For transport companies, clearing agents and freight forwarders, these initiatives could eventually translate into shorter border waiting times, lower administrative costs and more predictable delivery schedules.

Reducing manual processes and improving coordination between government agencies would also help minimise costly delays that ripple throughout the supply chain, benefiting transporters, exporters and importers alike.

Annual Review to Keep Progress on Track

The agreement, signed on 1 July 2026, will be reviewed annually by the chief executives of both organisations to ensure it continues addressing the evolving needs of South Africa’s freight and logistics industry.

As pressure grows to make South Africa’s trade corridors more competitive, the RFA and SAFLA believe a unified approach will help accelerate reforms that improve border efficiency, strengthen supply chains and reduce the cost of moving goods across the region.

Westminster debate reveals “systematic failures” causing silicosis crisis

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Westminster debate reveals “systematic failures” causing silicosis crisis

Workers are dying from a preventable disease” – Westminster debate reveals “Systemic failures” causing national crisis – with experts arco championing change

Occupational health experts have warned the UK could be significantly underestimating the true scale of a deadly occupational lung disease killing tradespeople across the country – with the youngest person reported to have died aged just 28.  

Clinical specialists have issued a stark warning that the true number of tradespeople affected by silicosis, and those likely to die as a result, could be far higher than previously anticipated.

The warning follows last week’s landmark roundtable at Westminster, led by Ian Lavery MP, and supported by Arco, the UK’s leading health and safety experts.

This ‘invisible’ national health crisis has been driven by widespread underreporting, missed diagnoses and a lack of routine health surveillance for those working in high-risk industries, according to various specialists.

Bringing together Members of Parliament, clinicians, regulators and industry leaders, the roundtable shone a necessary spotlight on the growing threat of silicosis, an entirely preventable but incurable disease that is linked to the cutting of engineered stone.

Despite there being just 52 confirmed cases of silicosis in the UK today, clinical leaders warned that the true number is likely to be far higher, with many workers avoiding reporting risks and red flags due to employer loyalty, and through fear of losing their income altogether.

Dr Johanna Feary, an Academic Consultant in Occupational Lung Disease at Royal Brompton Hospital, told attendees that the disease is often invisible in its early stages, meaning many workers are not diagnosed until irreversible damage has already been done.

Among those most commonly affected, she explained, are men in their 20s and 30s, with deaths from silicosis reported as young as 28.

She said: “These are people who have no access to health surveillance.

“They’re working where exposure is incredibly high, and they are a vulnerable population. A high proportion of them, I suspect, will die from their disease.

“To date, 9% of the people that I’ve seen have died, and there are a number being assessed for a lung transplant. Silicosis is asymptomatic in the early stages, so waiting for symptoms to appear before testing people means we’re going to miss cases.”

This harrowing evidence from Dr Feary has prompted growing calls for a national screening programme for workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS), to enable earlier detection and intervention.

According to industry and clinical leads, much of the risk is concentrated in smaller workshops and ‘micro-businesses’, where workers are frequently exposed to hazardous silica dust with little or no health monitoring.

Evidence shared during the roundtable revealed only a small minority of affected workers had ever undergone any form of workplace health surveillance, with some missing out on any form of monitoring for several decades.

Roundtable speakers described a fragmented system where occupational health data is poorly integrated with NHS records, depriving clinicians of the true picture of a patient’s working life and silica dust exposure history. As a result, silicosis is often misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely.

Dr Feary added: “We have a real problem in that silicosis looks like other lung conditions; it looks like TB and it looks like sarcoidosis, and so unless people get asked about what they do for a job, their silicosis will get misdiagnosed as other conditions.

“I really think we need a national screening programme which is properly funded, and properly rolled out, to ensure that these workers get the checks that they deserve.

“I think that’s the only way that we’re going to get people early and save lives.”

Arco, the UK’s leading health and safety supplier, and a key driving force behind the facilitation of yesterday’s roundtable, emphasised that while the risks are well understood, the real challenge lies in translating policy into practical action on the ground.

Christian Halford, Technical Quality Director at Arco, highlighted the need for a solutions-led approach focused on improving diagnosis, strengthening occupational health and ensuring workers are better protected through training, appropriate PPE and real-time monitoring.

He stressed that while measures such as water suppression can significantly reduce exposure, there is no single fix for the nationwide crisis.

“Exposure can be reduced, but only if the right controls are properly implemented,” he said. “The focus needs to be on practical solutions that reduce exposure on the ground.”

Ian Lavery, MP, emphasised the importance of clear government direction and stronger regulatory oversight to address the growing silicosis crisis.

He welcomed recent HSE guidance banning dry cutting, and mandating water suppression, but warned that greater awareness of exposure risks and more robust regulation would be needed to ensure workers are adequately protected across high-risk industries.

He also identified several priority areas, including making silicosis a notifiable disease through the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), strengthening the integration of occupational health within wider healthcare systems, and improving training, education and early detection.

He said: “I think from what I’ve heard today, and excuse me for saying this, but these are serious issues. It’s all mismatched.

“You’ve got all the jigsaw pieces in the box, but nobody put them together. You might have the four corners, but that’s what this is.”

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Respiratory Health will now take these proposals forward, with Ian Lavery in particular signalling his intention to raise the issue in Parliament and apply pressure on necessary government departments.

The roundtable concluded with a clear message: silicosis is entirely preventable, but without immediate and coordinated action across government, healthcare and industry, the UK risks a sharp rise in cases in the coming years.

Jim Shannon MP, Chair of the APPG for Respiratory Health, said: “Silicosis is a devastating yet entirely preventable occupational health issue affecting workers throughout the UK, across construction, mining, tunnelling and other silica-related industries.

“The true scale of the problem is not yet fully understood. Silicosis is a serious, progressive and incurable disease and despite its increasing prevalence, challenges around diagnosis, reporting and prevention persist.

“This roundtable provided an invaluable opportunity to review the current landscape, consider the barriers to effective prevention, and crucially, explore both practical and policy solutions that could effectively reduce exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust and, importantly, improve patient outcomes.

“I am delighted that Arco has partnered with the APPG on this initiative and contributed their expertise in workplace risk measurement and prevention. Insights gathered from the roundtable will inform a follow-up report, with the ambition to support improvements to worker protection, regulatory approaches and critically, improved patient outcomes.

“We hope to support a more coordinated, collaborative and effective response to reducing the unnecessary risks associated with silicosis and protecting the health and wellbeing of the UK workforce by uniting those working in key roles across policy, healthcare and industry.”

goplasticpallets.com launches CabCube XL range to replace costly metal stillages and custom wooden crates

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goplasticpallets.com launches CabCube XL range to replace costly metal stillages and custom wooden crates

goplasticpallets.com, the responsible plastic pallet company, has launched two new extra-large foldable pallet boxes to help manufacturers, distributors and logistics companies to store, move and transport oversized and unusually shaped products more efficiently. These innovative sleeve packs will also benefit businesses that currently spend significant time searching for suitable packaging before investing in costly metal stillages or bespoke wooden crates due to a lack of appropriately sized alternatives.

The new CabCube XL 1512 and CabCube XL 1612 sleeve packs – exclusively available in the UK via goplasticpallets.com – have been designed for complex manufacturing environments that handle items and components of varying sizes, including the automotive sector. They are also ideal for businesses that are often forced to obtain custom-made packaging to accommodate larger products.

The CabCube XL 1512, which measures 1500mm x 1200mm x 750mm, has a volume of 924 litres and a dynamic load capacity of 300kg. When folded, its height is just 225mm, achieving a return ratio of 1:3.5 and reducing logistics costs. Meanwhile, the CabCube XL 1612 (1610mm x 1208mm x 750mm) has a larger volume of 983 litres, and a dynamic load capacity of 350kg, but offers the same space-saving credentials. The substantial capacity ensures it is perfectly suited for storing and transporting goods of different sizes.

Both containers have nine feet and feature a secure folding mechanism that allows for quick and easy setup or collapse. They offer exceptional space-saving benefits, convenience and flexibility across various storage applications. Manufactured from durable recycled plastic and fully recyclable at the end of their working life, both sleeve packs have been designed for repeated use in closed-loop supply chains, helping businesses reduce packaging waste and support sustainability targets.

Dan Starnes, Sales Director at goplasticpallets.com, said: “We are excited to exclusively bring these innovative sleeve packs to the UK market. We believe they are the perfect fit for businesses handling oversized, non-standard and difficult-to-store products. The CabCube XLs will not only boost operational efficiency but also help businesses avoid the costs associated with custom-built packaging solutions.

“Unlike the majority of oversized pallet boxes that have been cut and shut to accommodate larger products, the CabCube XL range has been engineered specifically for oversized loads, delivering maximum strength and integrity across the supply chain.

“The fact these two sleeve packs can collapse to a small percentage of their height when not in use is another massive plus. Saving space in the manufacturing facility, the warehouse and on the trailer, leads to further cost savings and reduces carbon emissions.”

Wernick Power Solutions highlights growing power gap for warehouses

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Wernick Power Solutions highlights growing power gap for warehouses

As warehouse developments across the UK continue to grow in scale and complexity, a widening gap is emerging between when buildings are ready to operate and when permanent grid power is fully available. A new insight report from Wernick Power Solutions, Bridging the Warehouse Power Gap, explores how this shift is changing the role of temporary power and creating new challenges for developers, contractors and warehouse operators.

Driven by grid constraints, phased connections and rising electrical demand from automation, refrigeration and digital systems, many warehouses are now entering commissioning and early operation while still reliant on temporary power. What was once a short-term construction utility is increasingly becoming part of live operational environments.

Nick Crane, Managing Director at Wernick Power Solutions.

“Temporary power is no longer just something that sits quietly on a building site,” said Nick Crane, Managing Director at Wernick Power Solutions. “We are seeing it support commissioning, early operations and sometimes live warehouse systems for extended periods. That changes the risks, the responsibilities and the expectations around how it is planned and managed.”

The Bridging the Warehouse Power Gap report draws on project experience across logistics, manufacturing and distribution sites, highlighting how temporary power now sits across construction, commissioning and operations. It identifies key issues around ownership, visibility, cost and carbon impact when permanent grid connections are delayed or phased.

The report also explores why traditional approaches to temporary power struggle in modern warehouse environments, where electrical demand grows rapidly as automation and control systems are brought online in stages. Without early planning and clear responsibility, projects can face rising uncertainty at the point when buildings are meant to transition smoothly into live operation.

Wernick Power Solutions has launched the insight as part of a wider campaign to help developers, contractors and operators better understand and manage this increasingly common phase of warehouse delivery. “The industry has done an excellent job of designing and building highly sophisticated facilities,” added Nick. “What we now need is the same level of attention on how those facilities are powered through the messy middle between build and full grid connection.”

ILS supports cold chain with reliable labelling

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ILS supports cold chain with reliable labelling

Industrial Labelling Systems (ILS), a UK-based supplier of print and apply labelling systems for manufacturing and logistics environments, is supporting cold chain operations with labelling solutions designed to maintain accuracy and performance in frozen and chilled conditions down to –30°C.

Cold storage and chilled distribution environments present specific challenges for labelling processes. Low temperatures, moisture and condensation can affect label adhesion, equipment reliability and operator working conditions. In many facilities, manual labelling is still used within cold areas, introducing inefficiencies, increasing the risk of errors and requiring operators to work for extended periods in uncomfortable conditions.

As cold chain logistics continues to develop, there is increasing focus on maintaining throughput, ensuring traceability and improving working environments while meeting compliance requirements.

ILS provides a range of Evolabel print and apply labelling systems designed to address these challenges, including a pallet labelling system. The systems are engineered to operate reliably in sub-zero environments without the need for heated enclosures or additional protective measures, helping simplify installation and reduce system complexity.

In addition to accuracy and speed, reducing operator involvement is a key consideration in cold environments. ILS’ systems use lightweight, motorised applicator arms to minimise manual handling and reduce the need for operator interaction in freezing conditions. This can help improve safety and reduce reliance on manual labelling processes within cold storage areas.

The systems are also designed with compact footprints and minimal moving parts, supporting reliable operation in space-constrained environments while reducing ongoing maintenance requirements. Application flexibility allows labels to be applied accurately to irregular pallet surfaces and mixed loads, where consistency can otherwise be difficult to achieve.

ILS supplies complete cold storage print and apply systems, label materials, labelling software, installation and technical support. Systems can be specified to suit individual site requirements, supporting both current operations and future development.

Industrial Labelling Systems supplies Evolabel labelling solutions across the UK and Ireland, working with customers in sectors including cold chain logistics, food processing, pharmaceuticals and distribution.

Port of Quebec takes major step towards shore power

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Port of Quebec takes major step towards shore power

The Port of Québec is applauding a Government of Québec announcement confirming $4M in financial support for the electrification of Wharf 30 and a further $1.1M for Wharf 101 under its Programme d’efficacité du transport maritime, aérien et ferroviaire.

These projects are a decisive step in developing the electrical infrastructure needed to implement shore power for cruise ships and certain cargo ships at the Port of Québec. This will allow compatible ships to shut down their auxiliary engines while calling at the Port, significantly reducing their pollutant emissions.

“This support from the Government of Québec is making it possible for us to solidify a major project for the Port of Québec’s future. Shore power is central to our decarbonization strategy; it will tangibly improve air quality and citizens’ lives while firmly establishing our Port as one that is committed to the energy transition.” stated Olga Farman, President & CEO of the Port of Québec.

“The Port of Québec is a strategic gateway for our economy. From welcoming cruise ships to supporting the transportation of critical and strategic minerals, it plays a vital role in our economic corridor. By investing in the electrification of its wharves, we are helping to make the Port more modern, more efficient and more sustainable. This investment will strengthen our economy, support our environmental goals and help build a stronger future for Québec, “commented Bernard Drainville, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, and Minister Responsible for Maritime Strategy.

Reducing GHG emissions and noise pollution

At Wharf 30, which is dedicated to international cruises, shore power will reduce the greenhouse gases associated with calls in Port waters by around 90%—or nearly 70,000 tonnes—over 10 years. In addition to helping the Port meet rising expectations for sustainability, this upgrade will help support its development of the cruise market.

Wharf 101 will mark a first on the St. Lawrence, as it will become the first cargo-focused wharf to provide shore power connectivity. It will cut hundreds of hours of fossil fuel use each year. Over 10 years, the project is expected to prevent nearly 5,600 tonnes of fossil fuel emissions while improving air quality and reducing noise pollution in the area.

This initiative will also give the Port of Québec greater appeal to the cruise market. It is part of a broader effort to establish an increasingly green maritime corridor along the Canada–New England route. It will be joining the cohort of ports that have been or will be electrified by 2030—a cohort that includes the ports of Montréal, Charlottetown, Halifax, Boston, and New York, among others.

The provincial government’s financial support for hydroelectric shore power is meaningful not only for the Port of Québec, but for the entire St. Lawrence cruise corridor. As more ports invest in this type of infrastructure, the region is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for cruise lines and their passengers, who are seeking travel experiences supported by cleaner and more sustainable operations.

Significant investments

The Wharf 30 project is anticipated to cost a total of $23M. Half of the funding will come from the Government of Canada under the Green Shipping Corridor Program, which was announced in November 2024. This will be supplemented by the $4M contribution announced by the Government of Québec today, as well as up to $7.5M from the Port of Québec itself. Shore power is expected to be available starting in the fall of 2028.

The Wharf 101 project, will require a total investment of $5.1M, half of which will be covered by the federal government. The Government of Québec will provide another $1.1M and the Port of Québec, nearly $1.5M. Shore power is expected to be available starting in the fall of 2028.

Weekly Drewry World Container Index surges by 9%

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Weekly Drewry World Container Index surges by 9%

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI), the benchmark widely referenced by procurement teams, surged 9% to $4,530 per 40ft container due to rate increases on the Transpacific and Asia–Europe trade routes. Meanwhile, the Intra-Asia Container Index (IACI) decreased 4% to $1,035 per 40ft container. This marks the second consecutive fall in the index, suggesting that the early peak-season volume surge is easing while rates on Middle East routes are stabilising.

On the Transpacific trade route, spot rates continued to strengthen, with those on Shanghai to New York rising 11% to $7,902 per 40ft container and Shanghai to Los Angeles increasing 10% to $6,349 per 40ft container. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, eight blank sailings have been announced on the Transpacific trade route for the next week, reflecting tight capacity. Carriers continue to announce GRIs and PSS for July in anticipation of strong cargo volumes, with HMM introducing a PSS of $3,000 per 40ft container effective 15 July. Drewry expects rates to rise further in the coming weeks.

Spot rates on trade lanes connecting China with Southeast Asia and South Asia fell again this week, indicating that the early peak-season surge is approaching its end and upward pressure on freight rates is easing. Rates from Shanghai to Jawaharlal Nehru Port slid 6% to $2,155 per 40ft container. Meanwhile, rates from Shanghai to Manila declined 3% to $555 per 40ft container, following a sharp 26% drop last week, as congestion at Manila port eased with average vessel waiting times falling by four hours WoW in Week 26. Moreover, rates from Shanghai to Laem Chabang also declined to $974 per 40ft container. Capacity additions also continue, with Taiwanese forwarder and ship manager TVL Marine re-entering the intra-Asia container shipping market, while MSC has expanded its South China–Central Vietnam Lang Co Express service by reinstating calls at Nansha, Ho Chi Minh City, and Singapore. Drewry expects freight rates to remain broadly stable in the coming weeks.

The East-West and intra-Asia container freight market has remained resilient this year, supported by an early peak season demand and higher shipping costs stemming from geopolitical disruptions. The interim US–Iran agreement has facilitated the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, with vessel traffic recovering following the evacuation of stranded ships and the designation of authorised transit routes. However, security risks remain elevated after the suspension of ship escort operations following an attack on a containership near Oman. As a result, ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to underpin market uncertainty.

Novo Cruzeiro boosting clean energy transition

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Novo Cruzeiro boosting clean energy transition

Atlantico Energy Metals is highlighting documented field observations from its Novo Cruzeiro lithium and rare earth elements project in Minas Gerais, Brazil, including multiple inactive hand-dug artisanal mine tunnels, exposed rock, weathered profiles, light-coloured pegmatitic material and UV-light response.

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The company has highlighted first-pass assay results showing rare earth oxide enrichment, elevated magnetic rare earth oxide content and lithium pathfinder indicators from selected stream-sediment and rock-sampling information disclosed in its NI 43-101 technical report.

It is now adding field-level context through exposed tunnels, documented pegmatite material, weathered profiles and UV-light response, helping explain where its technical team is focusing the next stage of work.

ALSO READ: MI 2026: Advancing global standards at the Global Tailings Management Institute

The field team has identified multiple inactive hand-dug artisanal mine tunnels, commonly referred to as garimpo galleries, including one within its tenement that is reported to extend approximately 40 m into the hillside.

Field reports from these inactive workings document pegmatite material in exposed tunnel areas, providing the technical team with direct access for geological mapping and sampling.

Bonn Smith, president and CEO of Atlantico, said: “The clean energy transition depends on the world finding and developing new sources of critical minerals.

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