The TOC Americas 2024 conference commenced on October 1 at the Panama Convention Center, focusing on the evolving challenges and opportunities in the maritime and shipping industries. Moderated by Paul Gallie, CEO of PSL Advisors and advisor at A. P. Moller Capital, the event brought together key industry figures such as Nicolas Gauthier, President of Global Container Division at SSA Marine, and Carlos Merino, CEO of DP World in Peru and Ecuador, to discuss the future of shipping routes, business models, and sustainability.
Leadership and Sustainability in SSA Marine
Nicolas Gauthier highlighted SSA Marine’s position as the world’s leading port operator, particularly in the Americas. He emphasized the company’s commitment not just to operational efficiency but also to sustainability. A key example is SSA Marine’s Manzanillo terminal, which has undergone significant investments aimed at reducing emissions through the introduction of 52 electric rubber-tired gantry cranes (e-RTGs), with 40 deployed in 2020 and another 12 in 2022. Gauthier also touched on the complexities of investing in Latin America, where varying government regulations present distinct challenges.
DP World’s New Business Model
Carlos Merino shared insights into the transformation of DP World’s business model. While traditionally a port operator, DP World has expanded into third-party and fourth-party logistics (3PL and 4PL), providing more integrated services to its customers. This shift, according to Merino, is crucial in enhancing supply chain value and aligning closely with customer needs. Merino further noted that, despite the varied nature of DP World’s investments in countries like Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, the company remains committed to continual investment and growth in these regions.
Emissions Reduction and Decarbonization Efforts
Sustainability and emissions reduction were central themes throughout the conference. Larissa Barrios, Commercial Manager of SSA Marine’s Manzanillo Terminal Internacional, underscored the industry’s commitment to decarbonizing port operations. She emphasized the acquisition of non-polluting equipment, noting that six automatic cranes are set to arrive at the terminal soon. Additionally, Barrios pointed to the rise of green fuel-powered vessels, highlighting the challenge of ensuring that ports in Latin America can adequately supply these fuels.
Lars Nielsen, Head of Operations at Maersk Americas, offered a balanced perspective on the industry’s decarbonization challenges, emphasizing that regulations should align with both public interest and industry needs. He argued that such alignment can make regulatory measures a positive force for the industry, provided the right steps are taken early on.
Looking Ahead: Day Two of the Conference
The focus on sustainability will continue during the second day of TOC Americas 2024. Key panels will explore the steps towards zero emissions in the Americas, including a session moderated by Pernille Dahlgaard from the Maersk McKinney Moller Centre for Zero Carbon Shipping. Industry leaders such as Agustina Calatayud from the Inter-American Development Bank and Alexis Rodriguez from A. P. Moller Maersk will participate in discussions on creating greener shipping routes.
Additional panels will address the energy transition in the maritime industry and explore the competitive advantages of sustainability, with Eduardo Lugo, CEO of Maritime & Logistics Consulting Group, leading the conversation on the intersection of energy transition and maritime operations.
TOC Americas 2024 is providing a vital platform for maritime industry leaders to rethink business models, innovate shipping routes, and prioritize sustainability. With key discussions centered on emissions reduction and sustainable practices, the conference is paving the way for a greener, more resilient maritime sector in the Americas and beyond.
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Source: Seatrade Maritime
