TRADE-
FedEx rolls out new import tool for UAE businesses: Delivery giant FedEx has launched the FedEx Import Tool (FiT), a solution designed to tackle the increasing complexities and import volumes in the UAE, according to a press release. The tool is equipped with a user-focused design that aims to streamline the import process and enhance efficiency. FiT is being introduced across several markets, including the Middle East, Indian Sub-continent, and Africa.
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The features: The tool features centralized document management and shipment tracking; a dashboard that provides visibility into every stage of shipments; proactive notifications designed to expedite the clearance process and minimize delays; a direct payment feature that allows for online payment of customs duties and taxes; and round-the-clock monitoring enabling shippers and importers to track their shipments for up to 90 days after pickup.
KMG + AD Ports Group to bolster TITR trade links: Kazakhstan’s petroleum refineries firm KazMunayGas (KMG) and AD Ports Group are cooperating to expand fleet operations and strengthen the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), Trend reports. The two sides discussed collaborating on maritime transport and offshore oil projects in the Caspian Sea as well as expanding Kazakhstan’s tanker fleet and building new vessels to enhance offshore oil transportation and services.
STARTUP WATCH-
Pargo brings its smart logistics services to Egypt: South Africa-based logistics firm Pargo has secured some USD 4 mn in funding to fuel its expansion into Egypt, it said in a press release (pdf). Pargo has rolled out its collect and return services — which allow people to collect or return their online orders at their convenience — across 500 pickup points, including Fawry, Circle-K, and Basata stores.
More on Pargo: The logistics company launched its pilot program in Egypt back in 2023, testing its services with 150 pickup points before its official rollout.
AVIATION-
EgyptAir continues to handle Emirates’ ground services operations in Cairo: National carrier EgyptAir has renewed its ground services contract with the UAE’s Emirates Airlines at Cairo International Airport, according to a statement. Under the contract, EgyptAir will continue to cover ground services at the airport, including supporting Emirates’ cargo and passenger flight operations. Emirates Airlines’ is one of Egyptair’s biggest ground services clients, operating some 100 flights per month from the airport, the statement said.
SHIPPING + MARITIME-
SeaLead rolls out Red Sea shipping service: Singapore-based shipping lines SeaLead has added a new shipping service — Mediterranean Gulf Express (MGX) — linking Jebel Ali to the Mediterranean via the Red Sea, according to a statement. The service will connect key regional hubs, including Egypt’s Damietta, Djibouti, and Turkey’s Aliaga.
PORTS
DP World Dakar to join Portchain Connect: Senegal’s DP World Dakar will join the Portchain Connect network, which should allow it to enhance the quality and speed of their berth alignment with customers by utilizing digital interactions and secure data sharing, according to a statement. Portchain will enable DP World to get real-time schedules and move count updates directly from carrier systems.
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About Portchain: Portchain is a Copenhagen-based provider of berth alignment and planning software for container and terminal carriers, according to the statement. Portchain creates solutions to improve efficiency and sustainability for container shipping through Portchain Connect, a platform that allows sharing and receiving vessel schedule data while reducing delays in information transmission.