Dubai registered Emirates Shipping Line is planning to double its container capacity within the next two years to capitalize on 30 percent business growth since starting operations in 2006, said Senior Vice-President Mohamed El Alfy.
Emirates ranks 37th in the world in terms of fleet capacity, operating 12 chartered ships with a combined 28,000 TEUs, according to AXS-Alphaliner.
El Alfy, who joined Emirates in February 2007 and oversees the Middle East, Africa and Mediterranean regions, said the company’s strong volume gains last year were achieved by its commitment to high growth regions.
"The Asia to Europe trade was a big driver in 2007. This was primarily driven by a surge in exports from China to Europe, though several other countries in Asia also contributed to this upswing. The other key driver was the strong euro currency, which encouraged imports as well as the fast developing economies of Russia and Eastern Europe," he said.
"We see the trend continuing in 2008 and beyond, especially as China continues to post strong demand. Emirates Shipping Line will continue to strategically position its global services to China, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East and other key areas of the world."
American Shipper
Login
