Shippers Push for Reforms on Container Deposits at Mombasa

Shippers are advocating for reforms on container deposit requirements at the Port of Mombasa, collaborating with Viaservice Kenya Limited, a subsidiary of Swiss-based Viatrans SA, to address these challenges. The Shippers Council of Eastern Africa (SCEA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Viaservice to implement the Viaservice Container Solution (VCS), which aims to eliminate cash deposit requirements and advance the settlement of container demurrage, damage, and total loss charges. This initiative is expected to enhance business cash flows, improve container turnaround efficiency, and reduce the cost of doing business. VCS has already shown success in Tanzania, freeing up significant working capital and boosting business competitiveness. SCEA members will benefit from discounted rates under this partnership, which promises to address longstanding logistical issues and promote economic growth in the East African region.