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Showing posts from December, 2024

Main Liquid Imports in Spain: A Growing Sector

  Spain, as one of the most dynamic economies in Europe, imports a large quantity of essential liquid products for various industries, from energy to food. These liquids range from fossil fuels to vegetable oils, chemicals, and fertilizers, which are vital to maintaining the country’s growth and development. Oil and Derivatives: Leading Liquid Imports Crude oil and its derivatives are undoubtedly the main components of Spain's liquid imports . In 2022, the country imported approximately 68 million tons of crude oil. This volume translates to more than 500 million barrels annually, with Nigeria, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia being the largest suppliers. These volumes are necessary to supply Spanish refineries, which convert crude into essential products like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene. Additionally, with national consumption still heavily dependent on fossil fuels, refined products such as diesel and gasoline continue to be key for mobility and transportation. According to Statista, ...

Why Shippers Are Transitioning from Conventional Flexitanks/Flexibags to LiquA H-Flex as Winter Approaches

  As winter approaches, the shipping industry is preparing for the seasonal challenges that come with transporting oils in colder temperatures. A key trend in this area is the move from conventional flexitanks/flexibags to LiquA H-Flex flexitanks/flexibags. The Challenges of Winter Shipping Winter poses unique challenges for shippers. The main challenge in exporting oil during winter is that the product can solidify, requiring longer heating times when using conventional flexitanks/flexibags. In contrast, LiquA H-Flex flexitanks/flexibags allow for faster heating, making the process more efficient.   The Advantages of LiquA H-Flex flexitanks/flexibags Improved Insulation: Unlike conventional flexitanks/flexibags, the LiquA H-Flex flexitanks/flexibags system effectively isolates the flexitank from both the floor and the side walls of the container. This unique design ensures that steam can uniformly transmit heat to the cargo from all angles. In traditional systems, heating ty...

Navigating Sea Freight Challenges: The Shift from Huge Flexitanks/Flexibags

  Global shipping has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and critical maritime issues. These factors have led to significant fluctuations in sea freight costs, compelling shippers to adapt their practices, notably transitioning from 24,000-litre Conventional Flexitanks/Flexibags to 27,000-litre LiquA Flexitanks/Flexibags. The Impact of COVID-19 on Sea Freight Costs When COVID-19 struck, it sent shockwaves through global supply chains. Port closures, labour shortages, and increased demand for goods led to severe disruptions and congestion in shipping routes. As a result, sea freight costs soared to record levels. Shipping rates that once hovered around reasonable figures climbed by more than 300% in some cases, creating financial strain for many businesses. In response, shippers began to explore ways to optimize their operations, seeking strategies to mitigate these spiraling costs. Geopolitical Tensions an...

Transnet's R1.1 Billion Liquid Bulk Terminal at Durban Port

  South Africa’s state-owned logistics company, Transnet, is making significant strides with the development of a new R1.1 billion liquid bulk terminal at the Port of Durban . This ambitious project is designed to modernize the country's bulk liquid handling capacity, facilitating increased imports and exports of essential commodities such as crude oil, fuel, chemicals, and other liquid products. As part of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)'s long-term plan, this new facility will play a pivotal role in positioning Durban as a major hub for liquid bulk cargo on the African continent. This investment is not only critical for economic growth but also presents opportunities for sustainability and logistics innovation in South Africa. Key Features and Benefits of the New Terminal The development of the liquid bulk terminal will be managed by Mnambithi Terminals, a joint venture partner with TNPA, and is expected to handle millions of liters of liquid bulk cargo. Located at I...

South Africa's Bitumen Production: A Growing Sector

  Bitumen, a vital component for road construction and various industrial applications, plays a significant role in South Africa’s economy. As one of the country’s key industrial outputs, bitumen is produced and exported in large quantities, supporting infrastructure development both domestically and internationally. With growing demand, especially in African and global markets, South Africa’s bitumen industry offers valuable insights into trade opportunities, while also presenting new logistics solutions such as LiquA’s innovative bitumen bags .     Bitumen Production in South Africa   Bitumen is primarily derived from crude oil and refined to create durable, weather-resistant materials for road construction, roofing, and insulation. South Africa, with its established petroleum refining sector, has developed a strong capacity to produce bitumen. One of the key players in the country’s bitumen market is FFS Refiners, which, in partnership with Rubis Asphalt, has been...