SIFAX enhances Nigeria-UK direct trade route, curbs transshipment

SIFAX Shipping Company Limited has launched direct Less-than-Container Load (LCL) export services to the United Kingdom (UK) to enable Nigerian exporters and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) ship goods without the need for transshipment through intermediary ports.

The development, which is a strategic partnership with Netcargo UK Limited, a subsidiary of Net Cargo Group, offers businesses that have long grappled with the complexities of cross-border logistics, delays and costly transshipment processes, in their bid to export goods to the United Kingdom.

The General Manager, Groupage and Export Services, SIFAX Shipping, Adekunle Owobamirin, explained that this alliance provides an opportunity for Nigerian exporters to ship goods directly to the UK without having to consolidate through transshipment points.

This, he added, would result in faster turnaround times, lower costs, reduced risks, and more predictable delivery schedules. He further noted that this new service would empower local businesses to compete more confidently on the international stage.

“This is one of the most important moves we’ve made in advancing our export portfolio. We are now positioned to offer uninterrupted export services to the UK market, giving our clients the ease and confidence they need to grow their international trade volumes,” he explained.

In addition to its UK breakthrough, SIFAX Shipping has also sealed a robust import partnership with WSC Logistics and Shotto Logistics Limited. Owobamirin explained that this agreement makes it possible for shipments originating from various parts of the world, including India and China, to be routed efficiently through SIFAX’s bonded terminals and warehouses in Nigeria.

Owobamirin added that the partnership, described as a “third-party consolidator collaboration,” enables smaller logistics firms to leverage SIFAX Group’s well-developed infrastructure, technical know-how and bonded facilities.

Speaking further on this development, Owobamirin revealed that the expansion has already borne fruit, with the first trial shipments launched in June and full operations ramping up through July.

He said the bonded warehouse operations have been upgraded to accommodate the surge in volume. He said the collaboration would help companies to clear and dispatch cargo seamlessly, ensuring that goods keep moving and clients experience minimal delays.

“By improving direct export routes, especially to the UK, local businesses will benefit from reduced trade barriers and costs. Furthermore, the increased volume of imports handled through WSC Logistics and Shotto Logistics Limited is expected to create more employment opportunities and boost revenue streams for local stakeholders,” he added.

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