< PreviousUPDATE | APRIL 2020 10APRIL 2020 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EASTwww.logisticsmiddleeast.com Autoterminal K h a l i fa Port , a jo in t v e n t ur e between Abu Dhabi Ports and Autoterminal Barcelona, the operator of the advanced RoRo terminal at Khalifa Port, has unveiled a new technical centre. The centre provides a wide range of value-added services for customers within the Middle East’s automotive market. From pre-delivery inspection to accessory fitting, automotive importers stand to benefit from reduced labour and transportation costs, as vehicles can be prepared for showroom display or the receiving consignee without needing to visit a third-party facility. Saif Al Mazrouei, Head of Ports Cluster at Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “Since it’s founding in 2018, Autoterminal Khalifa Port has quickly established itself as one of the leading choices for automotive distribution moving to and from the Gulf. “Managed by a dedicated team committed to innovation, Autoterminal Khalifa Port has not only flourished in the market, but has become a role model for others in the industry to follow. The new Technical Centre is a culmination of that continuous drive for improvement and opens new opportunities for our customers to benefit from.” Pierre Algeo, CEO of Autoterminal Khalifa Port, said: “Furthering our directive to become the leading distribution hub for automotive vehicles from East Asia, the launch of our new technical centre opens new opportunities for our customers. “Using our centre, clients will be able to conduct any necessary modification prior to final delivery streamlining Autoterminal Khalifa Port unveils modern technical centre their respective operations and achieving improved cost- savings. We are delighted to be the first in the region to offer this added benefit directly within our terminal.” In addition to offering car washing, pre-delivery inspection and polishing on site, the facility will have the capability to conduct smart repairs, as well as accessorise Vehicles can be prepared for showroom display or the receiving consignee without needing to visit a third-party facility. and convert vehicles. The site will also provide a refuelling service in the near future, which will ensure vehicles are fuelled before their departure from Khalifa Port. The processing of vehicles thr ough A utoterminal Khalifa Port, including the technical centre, is carried out via the Carsys app, a superior automotive terminal management platform. Developed in-house, the app allows users to scan and log vehicles passing through the facility. In addition to ensuring accurate reporting and guaranteeing the traceability of all operations carried out on the vehicles, the Carsys app also allows its users to track the movement of their cars in real-time. The centre provides a wide range of value-added services for customers within the Middle East’s automotive marketOCTOBER 2019 | UPDATE 11LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | APRIL 2020www.logisticsmiddleeast.com The global air cargo market has been slow over the last couple of years due in part to international trade wars and has been criticised for failing to keep up with airlines and modern digital trends. But air freight operators have now found themselves being scrambled by governments to make up the shortfall in cargo capacity caused by the grounding of thousands of airliners. Air freight volumes last year had their weakest performance since the global financial crisis in 2009, when the market contracted by nearly 10%, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The air cargo market is now being asked to ramp up operations and support governments in their efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19. Since the crisis began, air cargo has been vital in delivering much-needed medicines and Air freighters have vital role in global ght against Covid-19 medical equipment and in keeping global supply chains functioning. Air cargo is proving instrumental in transporting food and other products purchased online in support of quarantine and social distancing policies implanted by states, according to IATA. The dr amatic tr av el restrictions and collapse of passenger demand have severely limited cargo capacity and IATA has called on governments to take “urgent measures” to ensure that air cargo will be available to support the global fight against COVID-19. “Over 185,000 passenger flights have been cancelled since the end of January in response to government travel restrictions,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s CEO. “With this, vital cargo capacity has disappeared when it is most urgently needed in the fight against COVID-19. The world’s fleet of freighter aircraft has been mobilised to make up this capacity shortfall. Governments must take urgent measures to ensure that vital supply lines remain open, efficient and effective.” IATA recommends that governments exclude air Business opportunities arising from Covid-19 cri- sis, says investment boss While certain businesses and investors in the UAE and around the GCC region are coping with the gloomy sentiment of a bearish global market weathered down by the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19), there are other investors and funds that are making the most of the opportunities arising from the changing consumer behaviour. Dubai-based investment firm Manrre Logistics Fund – which is managed by investment capital firm Dalma Capital and focuses on institutional-grade logistics and industrial real estate in locations including JAFZA, Dubai Investments Park, and Dubai South – is expanding options for qualified investors after placing its shares into Nasdaq Dubai’s Central Securities Depository (CSD). In an exclusive conversation with sister title Construction Week, the chief executive officer of Dalma Capital, Zachary Cefaratti, says: “We’re seeing great opportunities in the market right now. This is a time to grow our portfolio. The fundamentals underlying our portfolio are solidified, if anything, by the current COVID-19 situation.” The firm’s long-term view is that the market share of e-commerce sales will continue to grow as a proportion of overall retail spending in the UAE and across the GCC. This will result in a catching- up effect compared to other markets where the e-commerce penetration is about three to four times higher than it is in the UAE. Cefaratti adds: “The catching- up effect will also be accelerated because of the behaviour changes and consumer spending patterns being catalysed by the COVID-19 situation. Eirates Sky Cargo. cargo operations from any virus-related travel restrictions and exempt air cargo crew members, who do not interact with the public, from 14-day quarantine requirements. It has also suggested that governments support temporary traffic rights for cargo operations where restrictions may apply and remove economic impediments, such as overfly charges, parking fees, and slot restrictions to support air cargo operations during these unprecedented times “Air cargo carriers are w orking closely with governments and health organisations around the world to safeguard public health while also keeping the global economy moving. Today, as we fight a global health war against COVID-19, governments must take urgent action to facilitate air cargo. Keeping cargo flowing will save lives,” said de Juniac. UPDATE | APRIL 2020 12APRIL 2020 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EASTwww.logisticsmiddleeast.com DP World , UAE Reg io n , t h e region’s premier logistics and business hub operator, has announced across-the-board reductions in licence registration and administration costs for companies operating in its agship Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) as well as for new investors. The far-reaching Jafza Customer Support Initiative is designed to slash business- related fees by between 50 per cent and 70 per cent for registration, licensing and related administrative functions. The initiativ e will immediately assist more than the 7,500 businesses that operate out of Jafza and hundreds of new businesses attracted by the premier Free Zone’s plug and DP World announces up to 70% reduction in business set-up costs for Jafza-based companies play infrastructure and solutions for trade. In addition, a range of other online services will now be offered free of cost as a direct result of Jafza’s on-going digitalisation process. Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO & managing director, DP World, UAE Region and CEO of Jafza, said: “The initiative is highly significant and in line with the recent call by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, to bring down the cost of doing business and enhance investor experience. It’s a timely move to inspire our customers towa rds pursuing their business targets with greater The initiative will immediately assist more than the 7,500 businesses. confidence and purpose. It’s specifically designed to create value and opportunities for the companies to channel their resources to support their activities sustainably. We believe this forward- looking initiative will enable companies to do business in a smarter way and generate more business and create new jobs. “Trade has always powered Dubai’s economic development and DP World has played a central role in supporting it. The activities of our flagships Jebel Ali Port and Jebel Ali Free Zone are very closely connected with companies located there to take advantage of the world class infrastructure facilities and investment incentives and to connect to global markets. The twin economic growth engines are examples to the world and serve as models DP World is rolling out in other locations across our network worldwide. As wealth generators, they are critical infrastructure assets that underpin prosperity and success for our nation.” DP World, UAE Region contributes to over 33.4% of Dubai’s GDP and believes this initiative will further enhance the ease of doing business at Jafza, and continue to position Dubai as one of the global centres for commerce and trade. As a key economic and employment generator, DP World, UAE Region understands the impact that a renewed commitment can bring to the national economy, businesses and the community of Dubai and the UAE. Timely confidence building measure will benefit more than 7,500 existing com- panies as well as newcomersINDU LOGISTICS, JAFZA, United Arab Emirates,Telephone: +9714 - 8860141 Mob: +971-521043645, Fax: +9714-8860142, Email: info@indulogistics.com • COLD STORAGE • FROZEN STORAGE CHAMBERS • CHILLED STORAGE CHAMBERS • FOOD REPACKAGING SERVICES • BULK & RACK • TEMPERATURE CONTROL • CROSS DOCKING PREISHABLE LOGISTICS GENERAL WAREHOUSING PROJECT LOGISTICS CHEMICAL LOGISTICS FOOD CHEMICAL LOGISTICS E-COMMERCE SOLUTION 1 MILLION SQ FT OF WAREHOUSING SPACE CONTACT US14APRIL 2020 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EASTwww.logisticsmiddleeast.com As the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) continues to spread, the effects on global supply chains are felt across the globe. As a globally active logistics service provider, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has set up a task force to continuously assess the situation and carry out daily risk analysis at global, regional and local levels fully connected. As the virus continues to spread and further restricted areas are declared, supply chains are further getting restricted. Various trends are being observed across the globe. In our Middle East and South Asia offices, we have been in close touch with our partners observing certain trends coming up, from additional border delays to carrier cancellations and airport closures on passenger aircraft. From a business perspective, the outbreak of the coronavirus in China has a huge impact on the container market across the globe leading to equipment shortages across Asia, Europe and North America. The capacity reduction, which is much more than ever faced even during Chinese New Year periods across years, has led to GRI and PSS from the carriers. While many carriers have reduced or stopped services to affected countries, forwarders are now working on customer based solutions on a case to case basis accommodating their forecast volumes to reduce impact on the supply chain. These solutions include alternative routes, to enable air freight shipments to North America and other restricted countries, and short-term charter flights where available. While air movements are restricted, there is an increasing demand observed for LCL consolidation solutions. In many cases the orders which are ready to ship from the factories or already on board ship and cannot be received at the destination country due to a tightened situation. This State of preparedness Got something to say? If you have any industry comments to make please e-mail: nikhil.pereira@itp.com GUEST COMMENT | The changing face of logistics on the backdrop of a global pandemic, how do we deal in the interim? While many carriers have reduced or stopped services to affected countries, forwarders are now working on customer based solutions on a case to case basis” COMMENT escalates the demand for warehousing solutions at multiple hub locations where the cargo can be stored until the situation eases out. Across multiple industries there is a potential increase in demand for inventory management services where stockpiles need to be reassessed to meet customer demands locally, with more immediate focus being taken on healthcare, food supplies and then general household basics. Within the Middle East, road transportation is facing stricter regulations for border crossing where local distribution is required for cargo leaving from warehousing hubs. Whilst many borders are closed to passenger traffic on cargo greater checks and rules are in place to curb the spread of the virus. Hellmann continues to work About the author: Gordon Barnard is the VP, sales Middle East and South Asia, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics hard to ensure freight keeps moving, and that you receive the best possible service in this tense situation though a varied of solutions from Air-Charter, Oceanfreight (FCL and LCL services) as well as support warehousing solutions around the world to keep goods safe until the situation eases. The current events are very concerning, and so we continue to make every effort to protect the health of our employees, our customers, and our partners. Please also follow our daily updates at www.hellmann- journal.com for more updates on the situation.BRANDVIEW | IQ ROBOTICS 15LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | APRIL 2020www.logisticsmiddleeast.com How can support the fight against covid-19 pandemic In essence, Chinese media such as CCTV, Chinese International and others have announced the launch of an emergency materials procurement and reserve company – Wuhan Xinyao Medicine and Pharmaceutical Technology Co. Ltd; a part of the Hubei Province's New Crown Pneumonia Epidemic Prevention and Control Headquarters. The local Chinese company has alleviated the supply for surgical masks by producing nearly 2 million masks per day to provide to areas of Hubei. An estimated forecast states that the small medicines platform will soon be accessible to the entire province of Hubei; supplying nearly 5 million masks on a daily basis. Onset, the small medicines platform has managed to meet the demand for surgical masks by a fascinating collaboration between the employees of Xiaoyaoyao and the intelligent logistics robot system solutions provided by Quicktron. the small medicines platform has increased operational efficiency Medical professionals have disseminated protection measures to the public in response to the current pandemic– CODVID 19. This pandemic has largely affected the day-to-day life and has lowered the rate of return to work which has caused the demand to surpass the supply for essential products. by incorporating fast-storing "Suzaku" series heavy-duty robot for operational management. In addition, with the support of the EVO system several robots are dispatched at the same time in an orderly manner, they also tolerate extreme working conditions and Vcooperate with other automation equipment. The robots can bear a weight of 600 kilograms and can travel at the speed of 1.5m/second under full load. managed to meet the demand for surgical masks by a fascinating collaboration between the employees of Xiaoyaoyao and thhee intelligent logistics robot system solutions provided by Quicktron. the small medicines platform has increased operational efficiency About IQ Robotics, MENA region’s first fully robotic implementation, set to transform Dubai’s logistics sector. IQ Robotics provides tailor made technology turnkey solutions to promote the automation of all processes, bringing significant benefits to B2B customers. IQ Robotics offers solutions that cover robotics, warehouse automation, software solutions, package protection, labelling solutions and other related services. This is accomplished by IQ Robotics exclusive international partnerships with companies such as Quicktron, Honeywell Logistics Technology company, Damon technologies, Locked Air, COTAO and CubiLink, among others. Among the services offered by IQ Robotics, through its partners, include autonomous picking and sorting vehicles that will make logistics more seamless and efficient for SMEs as well as large-scale enterprises. IQ Robotics is creating a center of excellence out of Dubai, with a team of international and local experts that is directly involved in the customer-journey from start to finish. HELLMAN | BRANDVIEW 16APRIL 2020 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EASTwww.logisticsmiddleeast.com Hellmann Indu Chemical (HIC) is a Dubai based joint venture between Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and Indu Maritime & Logistics. The natural synergy of the two companies is the base for providing a host of world-class services pertaining to chemical logistics here in the Middle East. Equipped with a range of operational knowl- edge with local know-how, dedicated QHSE o cer and approved chemical warehousing space of 15,000 pallet positions and many other services, HIC is a one stop destination to all your chemical supply chain solutions. HIC offers warehousing solutions in Dubai along with transportation for the Middle East and Africa. Challenges for chemical sector and overcom- ing them Providing solutions for chemical customers does not only take the logistics around the supply chain into account but mainly the requirements from governments and regulatory bodies here in the UAE such as the Federal Environmental Agency, Ministry of Health (MOH), Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Trakhees for Environment, Health and Safety related topics. Safety currently is, and will continue to be, the core platform in which all chemical warehous- ing operations are based. We at Hellmann Indu Chemical show our commitment to this through Hellmann Indu Chemical’s logistics outlook our suitably qualified QHSE Officers who closely integrated with our operational team & the local authorities to ensure we provide full transparency and compliance for all safety related topics. Focus for 2020 The key focus area for HIC in 2020 is to continue to provide the facility infrastructure to support our speed of growth whilst continuing to provide operational excellence to our current cus- tomers. We are pleased to identify that our customers believe in the level of service HIC are offering resulting in us growing our businesses together. With the organic growth of our exist- ing business, and several successful business wins, we plan to continue our sustainable growth this year and we are currently in the consultation phase to add an additional 5,000 pallet posi- tions to our chemical facility portfolio Focus on quality across the supply chain With the growing chemical logistics in the market Hellmann Indu Chemical provides chemical storage and transportation solution. Simultaneously there has been an increased focus on specialized DG and NON DG products. Therefore, a flexible and efficient supply chain is more and more important to meet customer needs while monitoring costs. Furthermore, the ability to squeeze more competitive advantage out of the supply chain is more important than ever. At HIC we have 3 facilities dedicated to chemical storage with top of the range safety measures. We have a dedicated HSE officer who manages all the three facilities, plus monitors temperature controlled environment. Besides storing of DG and Non DG products we are providing documentation, transportation and value added services such as battery charging as well as food chemical solutions.WHO BUILDS THE BRAND 17LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | APRIL 2020www.logisticsmiddleeast.com Q 1: What makes your brand successful? As the first and largest Bonded and Re-Export Zone developer and operator, our brand has always been synonymous with innovation and efficiency. We have always been at the forefront in all logistics and supply chain disruptions in the region. Q 2: What are your top ‘must haves’ to set your brand apart from the rest? A strategic Vision and clear road map coupled with a strong performing team and Technology Infrastructure is our recipe to set the LogiPoint brand apart from the rest. Q 3: What makes a successful brand in the marketplace today in your opinion? Diversification and versatility are essential for any brands to sustain and expand their market share in today’s turbulent market dynamics. To cope up with the current trends we have upgraded our traditional marketing activities into modern digitally driven marketing initiative utilizing big data and other analysis tools to create interactive social media and direct to customer marketing. Q 4: What do you look for in a brand when you hire a company for your supply chain/logistics partner needs? We always seek to collaborate with partners who share our vision and values. We believe in customer centric approach and solution based services. Q 5: What steps can a company take to future- proof its brand? Developing sustainable and scalable solutions while maintaining customer centric approach helps us in realizing our vision and achieving our growth target and future proofing our brand. Waleed Alkhayyat, head of marketing and corporate communications, LogiPoint talks building blocks of a successful brand W ld Alkhh d fkd Brand on point Q 6: Anything else you would like to add? Today marketing has become more data driven and focused towards the right demographics. With the Saudi Vision 2030, the kingdom is embarking on an ambitious journey driving by innovation and technology, this has opened new investment avenues for local and international companies to expand their footprint across Saudi Arabia; this has also created a ripple effect across the region to develop and innovate and compete in offering more customer centric solutions.www.logisticsmiddleeast.com18 AS THE WORLD LOOKS FOR AVENUES OF POSITIVITY DURING AN UNPRECEDENTED TIME, THE LOGISTICS INDUSTRY ARE SOON BECOMING THE UNSUNG HEROES TRANSPORTING ESSENTIALS TO THE NEEDY, SAUD ABU AL- SHAWAREB TELLS NIKHIL PEREIRA HOW DUBAI INDUSTRIAL CITY IS DOING ITS BIT COVER | DUBAI INDUSTRIAL CITY APRIL 2020 | LOGISTICS MIDDLE EASTwww.logisticsmiddleeast.com19 DUBAI INDUSTRIAL CITY | COVER LOGISTICS MIDDLE EAST | APRIL 2020Next >