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Media releases
05 January 2010
Richards Bay Coal Terminal Begins a Year of
Stabilization
- New users on track to rail coal by the end of January
- Exports approximately same as 2008 despite more challenges in
2009
Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) exported 61.14 million tons of coal in 2009
under challenging conditions. In the previous year RBCT exported 61.7
million tons.
Raymond Chirwa, Chief Executive of Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT), said:
“We faced critical business challenges last year, compared to a smoother 2008.
These related to integration problems with the new Terminal Control System. This
year however heralds the start of the stabilization process and we are confident
that we will complete the Phase V expansion project in April.”
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) only delivered 61 million tons last year. By
utilizing its stockpile buffer, RBCT achieved 0.14 million tons more than TFR
did.
“TFR’s non-performance in meeting our rail capacity’s requirements is now the
only constraint in the coal value chain,” Chirwa says. TFR has admitted it has
not delivered on its mandate and has drawn in additional technical resources to
ramp up capacity.
“A collaborative effort is what will help South Africa regain and retain its
leadership position in global coal export markets,” Chirwa says.
RBCT expects to incorporate all new users after they have signed contracts
while a 91 million ton terminal will be rolled out at the beginning of Q2 2010,
when the expansion project is commissioned. 9 million tons per annum of
expansion capacity has been offered to 9 new shareholders and commercial users
with black economic empowerment priority.
Mbokondo, Umcebo, Exxaro and South African Coal Mining Holdings (SACMH)
concluded agreements with RBCT at the end of last year and are ready to rail
coal. Worldwide Coal Carolina, Mmakau, Arm Coal, Tumelo and South Dunes Coal
Terminal agreements are in the final stages of negotiation.
“I’m confident that all new exporters will join the existing shareholders in
exporting coal as early as the end of this month. This development will open up
the world stage to emerging coal exporters and we are proud to part of this
history,” says Chirwa.
RBCT will reclaim its single largest export coal terminal status in the world
at the beginning of Q2 2010.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Miss Zama Luthuli
Corporate Affairs Manager
Richards Bay Coal Terminal Company Limited
Tel: 035 904 4045
Cell: 083 399 3111
Email : zluthuli@rbct.co.za |
