Freight cost too high

THE last trip Mv Ialibu from the Lutheran Shipping Services did from Lae to Wasu was last week Thursday when stocks of goods in stores at Wasu and Kabwum ran out.
Interestingly, there were no pallet of goods expected on Mv Ialibu that day.
This was solved by the arrival of another vessel couple of days later with pallets of goods for the coastal and inland traders.
It is not surprising that the businessmen opted to freight their cargoes using the other ship.
Because on that Thursday afternoon, Mv Ialibu charged K45 for a 20kg rice bag filled with betel nuts.
And K95 for a 50kg stockfeed bag filled with betel nuts.
I am very sure this rate is too expensive.
Another K400 ship fare for the villager to get to Lae, sell the nuts and get back, the maths simply do not add up.
Wasu’s coconuts and betel nuts are of high demand in Lae.
However Lae missed out on these goods due to the excessive freight charged by Mv Ialibu.
The ship has a nice cool room purposely to keep fish, fruits and vegetables but the locals see no business sense to tap into.
I am calling upon the management of the vessel to reconsider their rates.
By far, Mv Ialibu is the only vessel doing regular runs and the poor passengers and traders have no choice but to pay the high price.
Bringing Mv Ialibu to provide service is commendable and a mammoth task achieved by Lutheran Shipping.
Ampo should step in to ensure there is a win-win situation for all parties.

James Zoriong,
Gatop Mission Station,
Wasu/Kabwum