11-6-2017
Qatar Ports Management Company (MWANI Qatar) on Sunday said it has launched two direct shipping lines between Hamad Port and the posts of Sohar and Salalah in Oman. The first vessel arrived from the Sohar Port on today.
The new shipping lines will greatly enhance the movement of food commodities between Oman and Qatar, said MWANI Qatar CEO Abdullah Khonji.
He was speaking at a Qatar Chamber meeting that discussed the obstacles faced by food importing companies in the country in light of the Saudi Arbia-led economic blockade of Qatar in the GCC.
A statement issued by the Qatar Chamber said businessmen’s proposals were made during the meeting to facilitate the flow of goods.
Khonji thanked the Sultanate of Oman for its fraternal position and strong support, noting that many Omani private sector companies have expressed their willingness to provide logistical support for Qatari food importing companies.
He said the containers which were on their way to the Jebel Ali Port in Dubai before the breakout of the diplomatic row would be redirected to the Sohar Port before getting them back to Qatar.
“We are coordinating with customs officials to expedite the release of goods. Under the current situation, MWANI Qatar gives the highest priority to food items,” Kohji said.
Saleh Abdullah al Haroun, who represented Qatar Navigation (Milaha) at the meeting, said Milaha was doing its best to provide everything that would facilitate the procedures of importing goods. He pointed out that the company was currently operating three weekly shipping services to Sohar Port and will increase the number of vessels soon.
“There is a plan to purchase a number of new vessels,” he said, adding that the current situation warrants the contribution of Qatar Navigation and Qatar Airways in supporting traders and facilitating the procedures for importing goods.
Mohamed Ahmed al Obaidly, chairman of the Qatar Chamber Committee on Agriculture and Environment, called on businessmen to form an alliance to lease private aircraft and ships to ship goods from different countries.
To this end, he said, Qatar Chamber would extend all possible help.
