Tue, 27 Jun 2017 13:08:12 +0000
BY MAILESI BANDA
THERE is need for the customs clearing and freight forwarding industry to keep pace with the fast-changing world of international trade, Paratus sales executive Andrew Shaw has said.
Mr. Shaw said adopting internet-based business strategies was crucial to surviving and remaining competitive in the marketplace.
Speaking at a business leaders’ strategic meeting in Lusaka recently, Mr Shaw said clearing and freight forwarding companies needed more reliable internet services to ensure efficiency.
“We understand that there are enormous problems with connectivity at the borders. After consulting with many of the clearing and forwarding and logistics companies, it is clear there are serious delays at the borders and we know that lack of digital communication is part of the problem,’’ he said.
He explained that clearing and forwarding firms needed more reliable internet to save costs and meet the growing demands of their services, adding that trucks standing idle was costing the industry and the economy.
Mr Shaw said even when the cost of internet could be expensive it was efficient and contributed to productivity, leading to increased revenue collection.
“Internet costs a lot of money but we are looking for long-lasting relationships and that’s why we are aiming at providing the best bespoke solution possible. We are open to suggestions and we want to get views from customers on how we can help them grow their businesses,” he said.
Mr Shawa appealed to customs and freight sector to take the lead in developing their operations.
