In a renewed drive to meet its ambitious growth targets, Safmarine has increased momentum in its expansion into new markets around the world.

Since January, (for the first time) shipments were carried on the Safmarine Bill of Lading to 11 countries. A total of 13 new Safmarine offices were established.

Much of the momentum is happening in Europe, where Safmarine has established its presence in Russia, Ukraine, Romania and Georgia, as well as Slovenia, Greece and Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. Further expansion is foreseen in the Baltics before the end of the year.

In the Middle East, Safmarine offices have been established in Bahrain and Lebanon, with former India Manager, Koen Bronder now heading up the offices in Beirut.

In India, his successor Mohan Hari has overseen a new office opening in

Ludhiana. The total number of Safmarine branch offices in India has increased to 15.

In Asia, Executive Peter H. Ehrenreich has capitalized on capacity increases on both Safari and Trans-Pacific trades by establishing direct Safmarine representation in Vietnam, while expanding sales activities with partner TMT in China to eight branch offices.

In the Americas Region, full sales and customer service representation for Argentina and Uruguay are now in place. Growth is seen in the WASADI service between South America and West Africa. The new fortnightly Safmarine SAX service between Itajai, Santos and Port Elizabeth is proving popular with shippers and has brought Brazil into Safmarine's top ten countries.

Africa, at the core of Safmarine's business, has seen the addition of a sixth branch office in Angola, in Lubango. A new office will open soon in Burkina Faso, bringing sales representation in Africa to over 50 countries.

According to Safmarine CEO, Ivan Heesom-Green, the line's focus is on establishing direct representation in regions and countries with fast-growing and emerging economies.

"Thanks to the Group's strong infrastructure, we are able to grow on the five continents, using market-leading products combined with Safmarine's personal way of doing business. Following our customers has always been our guiding principal, and will continue to be so in the future."