Evaluating the economic feasibility of short sea shipping in Southern Africa: A case study of regional freight transports

Abstract

The adoption of Short Sea Shipping (SSS) has been proposed as a possible means of improving regional freight transport in southern Africa. This paper is focused on the implementation of a methodology for the planning of regular liner routes between a set of ports while considering the distribution of cargo throughout this region using the road network. This research applies a numerical tool for the economic assessment of SSS based transport chains, building upon a model of the existing transport network, that comprises roads, ports and maritime routes. A case study is carried out that considers different options for a SSS route connecting ports in southern Africa. This case study includes also two different logistics scenarios (related to the logistic performance of ports and border crossings), in order to fully understand the feasibility of a SSS operation in the region. Conclusions are clear that, for the current logistics reality in the region, the implementation of a SSS route would be an advisable investment. In a scenario with improved logistics performance, a SSS service would remain feasible and even more profitable, as a consequence of high freight rates and in spite of high port costs and inefficiencies.