APM Terminals Apapa, Nigeria’s largest container terminal, has reported a consistent increase in export volumes over the past four years. For the first half of 2024, the terminal recorded non-oil cargo exports of 51,000 TEUs, marking a 25% year-on-year increase compared to 47,000 TEUs in the same period in 2023.
Steen Knudsen, Terminal Manager at APM Terminals Apapa, emphasized the importance of non-oil export cargo to the terminal’s operations. He highlighted the growth trajectory from 2020 to 2023, with export volumes rising from 53,000 TEUs in 2020 to 94,000 TEUs in 2023—a notable 32% increase.
To further boost non-oil exports, the terminal will host its second exporters’ forum on September 19th. Knudsen explained that the forum aims to support the Federal Government’s non-oil export initiatives by providing a platform for exporters to discuss and address challenges affecting the efficient movement of exports through the port.
The forum is intended to enhance collaboration between the terminal, exporting associations, and government agencies, ultimately leading to reduced shipping costs by ensuring vessels are not returning empty.
Kayode Daniels, Head of Commercial at APM Terminals Apapa, reflected on the success of the inaugural forum held in June. He noted that feedback from exporters led to valuable insights for improving operations, particularly in handling agro-export produce where timely delivery is crucial to maintaining cargo quality.
Daniels assured that the feedback from the forum would be used to refine export processes and strengthen the port’s export capabilities, emphasizing the terminal’s commitment to supporting Nigerian exporters and enhancing the overall efficiency of export operations.