PNG Ports clarifies stance on stevedoring process

THE PNG Ports Ltd says it is not involved in domestic stevedoring processes but is responsible for the collection of wharfage for the facilities.
PNG Ports corporate communications manager Peter Korugl was responding to concerns raised by PNG Manufacturers’ Council chief executive Chey Scovell over the delays in stevedoring processes.
Scovell blamed PNG Ports for the delays, saying they caused domestic shipping companies to incur additional costs which were passed on to the clients.
But Korugl said: “Most delays are caused by documentation flows between the supplier, receiver, customs clearance agent and transport companies.
“PNG Ports are not involved in this process beyond the collection of wharfage.
“The granting of concessions (effectively for stevedoring) will bring a new level of operational efficiency which will help to alleviate the issues experienced by imports and exports.
“PNG Ports have invested significantly in PNG two main gateways for imports and exports, Port Moresby and Lae.
“The recently completely Port Moresby facility, represents a near K1 billion facility, while in Lae the investment has been close to K850 million.
“Where there has perhaps been a lack of investment is by those within the logistic chain, that is, stevedores, transport and logistic companies etc.
“The investments in Lae and Port Moresby, Kimbe and Alotau, our key ports have improved productivity and addressed congestion issues faced by shipping lines.”