To woo customers from Coimbatore and Tirupur, the container terminal operator DP World Kochi organised trade meetings in these two regions.
Sources in the shipping fraternity who participated in the meet said that the trade in Coimbatore had suggested re-starting of the rail connectivity from ICD Irugur, which would offer cheaper and faster cargo service.
Exporters from Pollachi demanded the opening up of the Gopalapuram Check Post which would save them transportation cost while shipping through Kochi Port.
Due to present restrictions of container movement through Gopalapuram check post, the exporters are forced to route their goods via the Walayar Check Post incurring additional running distance.
Representatives from the trade pointed that they prefer to ship via Chennai and Tuticorin due to cost advantage.
However, they were of the opinion that Kochi Port would also be a cost-effective solution if containers meant for exports are routed via Gopalapuram check post.
Garment exporters from Tirupur cited higher transportation cost and terminal handling charges at ICTT Vallarpadam as the reason for opting Tuticorin Port as their major gateway.
The starting of direct Europe and China service from ICTT has been attracting them due to transit time and cost saving.
However, they expressed the view that Kochi would be a preferred gateway if more mainline services to major destinations in Europe and US starts from Vallarpadam.
The Facilitation centre at Walayar jointly run by DP World and the Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry also won a lot of accolades from the trade.
The centre had handled more than 700 containers in May. Apart from e-filing, the centre supports the trade with facilities like coordination with the commercial taxes office, communication facilities.
Shipping lines operating mainline services at Kochi projected the advantages of using their service during the session. Various CFS and ICD operators highlighted their infrastructure facilities and services to the Exim trade.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr K.K. Krishnadas, Chief Executive Officer, DP World Kochi, said that the company will do everything possible to ensure even last minute connections to avoid containers getting shut out.
Mr Elvis D’Cruz, General Manager Commercial, DP World and Mr Jimmy George, Deputy Traffic Manager, Cochin Port Trust also attended the function.
The event was well attended by the EXIM fraternity comprising exporters, importers, shipping lines, CFS and ICD operators, Freight Forwarders and Custom House Agents.