From Rotimi Asher, Lagos
APM Terminals Apapa has addressed the growing concerns over empty container congestion, clarifying that shipping lines are primarily responsible for the evacuation and shipment of these containers, as they own and control them.
The Manager of APM Terminals, Mr Steen Knudsen, made this disclosure in a statement signed yesterday and made available to newsmen in Lagos.
Knudsen said that the statement was issued to set the record straight on the root causes of the situation and to assure stakeholders of its continued professionalism and service efficiency.
He said that the terminal promised to have close collaboration with relevant parties to resolve the issue promptly.
Knudsen explained that insinuations suggested that APM Terminals Apapa was not receiving empty containers, allegedly contributing to yard congestion.
He clarified that the management of empty container evacuation into the terminal and subsequent shipment onto vessels was the responsibility of the shipping lines, which own and control all containers.
Knudsen further explained that the sharp and sustained surge in importation of cargo volumes over recent weeks made shipping lines prioritise the discharge of incoming laden containers over evacuating empties.
He said the operational shift had 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.
“We recognise 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 vessel evacuation of empty containers”, Knudsen said.
The manager emphasised that the development was not due to a failure in terminal operations, but rather a systemic issue stemming from the imbalance in container traffic.
According to him, 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.
“APM Terminals Apapa is appealing to landside customers, truck operators, and other stakeholders to kindly bear with us regarding the temporary restrictions and delays in receiving empties, while assuring you that every effort is being made to normalise the situation.
“APM Terminals Apapa remains steadfast in its commitment to professionalism, efficient service delivery, and partnership with stakeholders in ensuring that the Nigerian supply chain keeps moving”, Knudsen said.
