Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) hosted a Logistics roundtable on the 25th of May 2023 to share expert advice on relevant industry trends in logistics under the theme, “Embracing integrated logistics network in trade facilitation.” The Roundtable discussion aimed to inspire professional and insightful conversations about various viewpoints on on integrated logistics in trade facilitation taking into consideration the entire value chain system from the first mile to the last mile of logistics.
Mr Yolisa Mkumatela (Lecturer at Nelson Mandela University: Logistics Department) was invited to join as a panellist and expert in the Logistics Sector, together with Dr Juanita Maree, CEO South African Association for Freight Forwarders. Both speakers reflected on the importance of an integrated logistics sector, creating an enabling culture of productivity and collaboration of efforts in dealing with challenges faced by the logistics sector.
This discussion assisted in providing groundwork towards formalising strategic partnerships. The main objective of the roundtable discussion was to stimulate debate amongst industry experts and to serve as a platform for critical engagement through stakeholder collaboration. Furthermore, the discussions seek to:
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Establish strategic partnerships with industry from a business needs perspective: South African Association for Freight Forwarders (SAAFF)
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Establish strategic partnerships with industry from an academic perspective: Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
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Provide regular updates and lead the logistics sector development through aligning integrated logistics requirements to business needs
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Understanding future technology strategy requirements
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Identify possible project development and execution programmes and related services for integrated logistics.
