PERSPECTIVE

Rahat Talreja
Vice President – CSS Central India

Scene 1:
Its the middle of the night.
You are sensing there is a mosquito somewhere who is meandering to suck your hot red blood. You continue to defend mildly and in the course of the night, the mosquito drink 10 ml blood. You scratched a little, attempted to clap and kill it however didn’t have any sense of panic. Only some irritation. The loss was 10 ml blood. That was the mosquitos mission and gross demand.

Scene 2 :
Its the middle of the night.

Suddenly from somewhere appears a Dracula or vampire. In its trademark style, it laughs a lot ( remember all those spiritual gurus who ask you to laugh and smile in life) and now demands 5 ml blood from you. Thats its mission and demand – which is significantly lesser than the mosquito. The takeaway would be just half of the first situation. However chances are that you have already panicked and had a heart attack and died by now.

So if we analyse the situations carefully, you realise that its not always the takeaway but the context and tone of the situation that makes our emotions react. Therefore, we tend to distort our images in the situation and rather analyse it in extrapolation of the actual demand. Perspective and Look through calculation is, therefore, very important in life.

Face values, numbers, figures, all tangibles, if viewed in only number terms are a sure way of fooling yourself. Basically, perspective is the only tool that helps identify the context. And the context is the crux on which every situation rests. Panic is an emotional situation and perspective is a thinking position.

Let me elaborate with few examples:

Age
Age is the most distorted panic situation we create for ourselves. The entire conditioning of being a certain age and relating it to certain events has enslaved our thoughts enough not to have any different perspective on it. However let me ask you a question.

Is 60 years an old age or not?

John is 30, has a very conditioned attitude towards life and for him, 60 is like his penultimate day.

Jethmalani is 95, just retired from 75+ years of law practise, for him, 60 was his childhood days.

The learned Sam Pitroda in his many lectures has said that we are the cusp of advances where human life will be over 150-200 years. They just won’t let you die. The organs that fail have started to be manufactured in laboratories and in another decade the cost will be so affordable that heart, liver, kidney etc whatever fails, you just replace it. simple. Technology will make the concept of age redundant.

Buying in Sales and Discounts

a) A garment, 50% off now also meant 100% higher priced earlier.
b) Bottle of Coffee, 100 gms for 100 rupees but 200 gms for 150 rupees also means

200 gms for 150 rupees so 100 gms should be for 75 rupees

If you see the net sale value of most products, they are an average 35% below the price always across the world. Price therefore acts only as a mental benchmark and is used to make you feel better about your purchase. Also it motivates you to purchase as well. If you view in perspective, ultimately nothing matters.

We can give several other examples like getting notices from income tax or being stuck in traffic before catching a flight or adolescents watching porn secretly and getting caught by parents or loosing a customer who appears big but is actually not in monetary terms or resources invested vs returns. Panic is a result of being away from reality in your mind. The closer you are to it, through unbiased analysis and clear viewing , the lesser you panic on unnecessary things. I remember once my friend was stuck in a income tax case which was on for several years and one senior one day just told him casually – see, they will take money, not your life, so its ok , don’t panic so much. It is so true that we get carried away in situations as if they meant life and death. I have seen people, sometimes my earlier self too, being too serious about normal business situations which actually don’t merit so much discussion and stress. I even wrote an article on : Over Analysis and Over discussion ( OA OD) in its context.

Now let me conclude. You know Nostradamus ?

Nostradamus said that the earth will end one day. But one day, it was he who died. Good bye!

DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP CELEBRATES YEAR OF TOLERANCE WITH INCLUSIVE ONE MONTH TO GO CEREMONIAL TEE SHOT

DP World aims to build a better future for everyone and it’s great to see, first-hand, children of all ages, backgrounds, genders and abilities playing a sport that means so much to our business.

Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director of DP World Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 21 Oct 2019

DP World officially marked the one-month countdown to the 11th edition of the season-ending DP World Tour
Championship, Dubai, and inaugural EDGA Dubai Finale at Jumeirah Golf, Estates, as Irish professional Brendan Lawlor hit a
ceremonial tee shot off the first tee of the iconic Earth course in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al
Qasimi.

This year’s DP World Tour Championship will witness one of the most exclusive fields in world golf with only the top 50 players on the European Tour’s Race to Dubai Rankings eligible to compete in the prestigious event over the Earth course from November 21-24. The tournament will also boast the richest first prize in golf with the champion receiving a mouthwatering US$3 million.

To celebrate the UAE's Year of Tolerance, EDGA Dubai Finale star, Brendan Lawlor was invited to take the first ceremonial tee shot as His Excellency Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation and Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director of DP World, watched on along with the UAE’s boys 13 and Under National Golf Team and children from the Dubai Heights Academy.

Lawlor is one of eight Golfers of Determination who will be taking part in the inaugural EDGA Dubai Finale, a 36-hole
tournament that will be played in conjunction with the DP World Tour Championship – a Rolex Series event – using the same course set-up as the European Tour’s elite players. As well as taking the first ceremonial tee shot, the 22 year old hosted an inclusive coaching clinic for the Students of Determination from Dubai Heights Academy and the UAE’s 13 and Under Boys National Team, who recently won the bronze medal at the Pan Arab Golf Championships in Egypt.

The introduction of the EDGA tournament marks the first time a Golfers of Determination competition has been hosted in conjunction with a European Tour event in the region, following the successful EDGA Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club, which Lawlor won, and builds on the Year of Tolerance and DP World’s commitment to driving an inclusive and tolerant culture across its business, sponsorship platform and the wider UAE community.

Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director of DP World, said: “DP World aims to build a better future for everyone and it’s great to see, first-hand, children of all ages, backgrounds, genders and abilities playing a sport that means so much to our business. Golf is much more than just a game, it’s a platform for us to inspire people through the DP World Tour Championship and our partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation to build a more inclusive society.”

Also on the first tee for the ceremonial event were Mustafa Al Hashimi, CEO of wasl hospitality and leisure and representatives for the prestigious event’s other key stakeholders along with members of the Dubai golfing community.

“It”s great to be out in Dubai to celebrate one month to go the DP World Tour Championship and EDGA Dubai Finale, “said Lawlor. “I had a lot of fun with the students from Dubai Heights Academy and the EGF at the golfing clinic this morning and it’s a real privilege to be a role model to the Students of Determination and show them anything is possible in life. It’s the first time I’ve seen the course and it really is going to be a special occasion when I return next month for the EDGA Dubai Finale.

Tom Phillips, Head of European Tour Middle East, said: “We are extremely proud to be celebrating the 11th edition of the DP World Tour Championship. Through the excellent partnership we have with DP World, we have been able to deliver a first-class tournament that has helped put Dubai at the forefront of the international sporting world as well as grow golf locally by attracting new fans and new players to the game.”

It’s great to have Brendan with us to celebrate our one month countdown and we look forward to welcoming him and seven other Golfers of Determination back here to Jumeirah Golf Estates for the inaugural EDGA Dubai Finale. Golf has always been an inclusive game and we are very proud that the European Tour is a driving force in opening up the sport to as many people as possible.

Over 65,000 spectators will attend the free-to-watch tournament at Jumeirah Golf Estates with a further 500million people tuning in across the globe to see the action unfold on television.

TRASHING HEREOS

In her song ‘Wind beneath my Wings’ internationally acclaimed songstress and actress Bette Midler ended by singing: –
‘Did you ever know that you’re my hero?
Ever popular, for many this song has become even more relevant today because there is a growing reluctance to give praise to others. Social media and the ever-growing stresses of modern life have instilled in many a desire to be noticed both in our workplace, society in general and even in our homes. It is true that many of us feel adequate and get satisfaction just going about our usual daily lives enjoying the occasional acknowledgment and smile. However, a growing number now feel a need to be recognised as individuals who are demonstrably unique from others. Unfortunately, in some this has become a passion to compensate for their lack of perceived skills. Their need to be recognised makes them succumb to the temptation of being a ‘trasher’. Finding that their talents and position doesn’t provide a sufficient platform for their aspirations, they take an easy option of trashing others. The idea to them, of praising anyone, undermines their own sense of importance. In their minds, making others feel insecure, heightens their own self-righteousness. Often, they become so skilful at doing this; it is not easy to recognise their almost stealth like activities. They rely on the fact that no matter who you are or even how nice you are, some people will not like you! So, when we hear that someone has ‘trashed’ us we just generally shrug it off and live with it. Unfortunately doing this often encourages those doing the ‘bad-mouthing’ to escalate their attacks. This increased activity may even make people we thought were friends turn against us. Unhappy people, who gain their kicks by trashing others, may join together so as they enjoy talking rudely about everyone else. By this stage malicious gossiping takes on an impetus all of its own.

So, what do we do about it?
Importantly you first need to recognise that you are being ‘trashed’. This is not always easy because trashers are often subtle in the way they build their sphere of influence. They usually act furtively in growing their empire as it gives credibility to their self-perceived uniqueness. This acts as compensation for their inadequacies. If they are found out their treasured trashing realm collapses.

You are being trashed if you are able to identify that someone is making harmful statements about you and that these may result in damaging your reputation and friendships. Workplace criticism, inappropriately conveyed to others, especially as ‘tittle tattle’, is a particularly hurtful form of trashing. It also breaks down team relationships and undermines group confidence. The truth of any statements is not theissue because the trasher, from their perspective, believes them to be true. Of course, an issue arises as to when such activities become slander, but that’s another matter. Frequently a trasher is a rather sad person, underneath their bluster, as it implies, they have nothing better to do. Deriving pleasure from trashing someone is believed to generate negative gratification which subconsciously saps creativity and vitality. It’s a way of getting sympathy and attention. If trash talk persuades some friends to desert you then you’re better off, as they were only tenuously your friend in the first place. They are in negative territory by allowing their lives to be influenced by rubbishing chatter.

But being trashed really does hurt, especially when it’s a good friend who has to clue you in that it is happening. However, one thing you must not do is to give in to a desire to defend yourself, especially when angry about it. Such a response plays into the hands of the trasher, who wants to feel more powerful than you. Over the years, experience has shown that the better way is to treat the trasher with light-hearted contempt by being friendly but, at the same time, nonchalantly smiling in their faces.

It turns out that those who recognise a need to cope with trashing activities often keep a ‘private’ list, about their workplace and social media – ‘a people who annoy them’ list. We all know such people, don’t we? Well checking it and amending it, every so often, makes us assess if we are also guilty of subtle trashing without realising it. Office and social media gossip is so much fun, isn’t it? Invariably we like to be first with the news.

We all have different talents and skills that are unique. Those who value a team spirit know that by pulling together, more may be achieved. Often, we fail to acknowledge this around us, thus providing fertile ground for trashers. Just like Bette Midler sings, by letting others know that they help you soar to greater heights, because ‘They are the wind beneath your wings’, quickly puts paid to trashers. We may all benefit by finding the time to ask our friends and colleagues, ‘Did you ever know that you’re my hero?’

INSIDE PORT OPERATIONS

CSS Lanka commenced its inside port operations recently.

Import Cargo console from Dubai was destuffed and export console to Male was stuffed by CSS Lanka port operations staff. Consolidated Shipping Services, Sri Lanka – started operations from Colombo, in December 2018.

“The inside port operations proved to be exciting for us, at the same time the weather posed a big challenge. But we were able to complete the process earlier than expected and the support from the port authorities helped us in completing the processes successfully” mentioned Menusha, General Manager, CSS Lanka.

Strategically located in a key East-West trade route and set close to India, Sri Lanka has the essential locational advantage needed for it to develop into a key logistics hub in South Asia. The island state is an important transshipment hub in the region. Colombo port has remained one of the busiest port in South Asia for many years as of now.

KIGALI LOGISTICS PLATFORM OPENS WITH THE POTENTIAL TO BENEFIT RWANDAN BUSINESSES WITH UP TO $50 MILLION IN LOGISTICS SAVINGS

We look forward to building on our strategic partnership with the Rwandan government to expand the logistics and trade sector, by empowering the Rwandan people to increase the attractiveness of the country as a key trade hub in Africa.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem

  • Facility inaugurated in presence of H.E. The President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame
  • Truck-turnaround time using Kigali Logistics Platform reduced from an average of 10-14 days to just 3 days
  • 667 direct and indirect jobs created with 98% local employment

Global trade enabler DP World inaugurated its Kigali Logistics Platform in the presence of President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E. Paul Kagame and DP World Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

The facility, which has been operational since September 2018 in test mode, has an annual capacity of 50,000 TEUs. When operating at full capacity, it has the potential to save Rwandan businesses up to $50 million a year in logistics costs.

Since the commencement of its operations in the Rwandan capital last year, Kigali Logistics Platform has reduced truck-turnaround time which used to be an average of 10-14 days to just 3 days.
Kigali Logistics Platform serves as a gateway to the heart of Africa, connecting Rwanda to neighbouring countries including Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. The facility will also access the port of Mombasa in Kenya and Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania, securing two trade gateways to the sea.
The railway from Mombasa port in Kenya will pass through Uganda to Rwanda and also the railway from Dar Es Salaam to Kigali is under construction and will have its final cargo rail siding located at Kigali Logistics Platform. Linking railways to the Kigali Logistics Platform has the potential to dramatically reduce logistics costs for exports and imports via international gateways on the coast. At present it costs three times more to transport a container from Kigali to Dar Es Salaam as it does to transport the same container from Dar Es Salaam to Shanghai.

Commenting on the inauguration, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, DP World Chairman and CEO, said: “We believe in the economic potential of Rwanda and the African Great Lakes region. DP World is proud to support Rwanda in its ambitions to establish itself as a key services and trade hub for the region, and to accelerate further economic growth by sharing our knowledge and expertise in innovation and technology. As we inaugurate Kigali Logistics Platform, we are delighted by the impact it has already had on businesses and the community. We look forward to building on our strategic partnership with the Rwandan government to expand the logistics and trade sector, by empowering the Rwandan people to increase the attractiveness of the country as a key trade hub in Africa.”

Kigali Logistics Platform has already contributed to socio-economic progress through the creation of 667 direct and indirect jobs, with 98% local employment. The Kigali terminal also contributes to the elevation of living standards in nearby villages through business development projects and internship opportunities for young adults from economically challenged families.
The facility utilises state-of-the-art technologies to ensure maximum security and transparency for its customers. It is the only cargo terminal in Rwanda monitored by 24-hour CCTV with customers able to access real-time tracking through mobile and online portals. Operational time is reduced via articulated forklifts and modern narrow aisle racking system (VNA) in warehouses – a first for Rwanda and only the second of its kind in Africa.
The $35 million project spans over 130,000m², including a 12,000m² container yard and a 19,600m² warehousing facility. DP World and the government of Rwanda are exploring the expansion of Kigali Logistics Platform to Phase 1.2 and Phase 2 to increase efficiency and provide more logistics solutions.

“The introduction of new logistics routes paired with smart warehousing systems will improve access of Rwandan businesses to global markets, boost economic development and drive new investments into the Rwandan economy. The Kigali Logistics platform will revolutionize the way trade is handled in Rwanda, which was only made possible through the cooperation and constant support of H.E. The President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame and the Rwandan government,” Bin Sulayem concluded.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Two decades ago, when CSS launched the first edition of our ‘Lighthouse’ magazine, we had a vision. Innovatively, it was to interact with the shipping logistics fraternity, by providing interesting information about events and updates from within the CSS Group. It transpired that, in a very short space of time, ‘Lighthouse’ built up a globally increasing readership throughout the shipping and logistics industry. Consequently, it started garnering more compellingly relevant news and feature items to showcase to our readers. The support and encouragement we have received over all these years has been staggering. Across the world, our print copies reached more than five thousand pairs of hands. Partnered alongside this, our digital edition started picking up the show with an exponential growth of half a million readers online.

It is true that a printed magazine gives you a more tactile experience, as it opens up an emotional channel with the content, when it’s held in a reader’s own hand. But being a responsible company, committed to preserving the environment, we have decided to reduce the usage of paper within the CSS group and go green. In line with this commitment we’ve taken a decision to completely digitize our magazine. Whilst we are sad to discontinue the print edition of ‘Lighthouse’, we are very excited about exploring how the advantages of 100% digitization will benefit our publication. We promise that this new change will not impact in any way on the quality of its content. We will happily rise to the challenge of continuing to engage our readers with more interesting topics from within the industry.

It’s said that: – ‘It ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it’.

We intend to ‘do it’ in a way that will carry forward, the new digital online format of ‘Lighthouse’, as an acclaimed flagship publication for CSS and our global industry

CSS GROUP HONORED BY THLG


The CSS Group was honored with a special award for their continuous journey with THLG as an associate for the past 10 years. “The long-term cooperation with The Heavy Lift Group has been a tremendously fruitful association in terms of sharing knowledge and executing projects and mutually beneficial,” commented Sreenath V, Vice President, Operations and Projects, CSS Group. It is indeed a great privilege for CSS to be a part of this reputed fraternity, mentioned Sreenath, after receiving the award.

The Heavy Lift Group is an international group of specialized heavy transport companies which combine their forces to offer the best expertise and service according to customer needs.

Members specialize in heavy lift transport by sea, air and overland, outsize cargo movements, crane operations, rigging, machinery installation, and large-scale project forwarding.

The Heavy Lift Group was founded in 1987 by a number of West European heavy lift operators in anticipation of the single European market and has since then expanded into a worldwide group having members in the United States, South America, the CIS, the Middle East and Asia.

BRINGING CHICAGO MEAT PACKERS TO DUBAI


The specialist division for Hotel & Hospitality Logistics of CSS implemented turnkey solutions for the renowned Chicago Meatpackers at Palm Jumeirah moving goods from various parts of the world. The hospitality client specifically needed a logistics provider to support its supply chain needs by managing a three-phase project over the period of a year and a half. An end to end service offering was the CSS buzz word for this movement, handing procurement from the factory and delivery at destination for A to Z items for the restaurant.

The project started in the year 2017 and the movement of goods were done from the USA, Malaysia and Germany until 2018. CSS team moved 90 percentage of the items required for the infrastructural development. The furniture, the bars, the kitchen equipment, coffee machines, light fittings, bricks on the wall down to the cutleries and crockeries for the restaurant were included in the list. Their scope was Ex-works from factory location, freight till Jebel Ali, customs clearance and delivery to location. Some of the activities were assisted by other departments of the Group company and ensured a cent percentage satisfactory job completion.

“Working with international brands such as Chicago Meat Packers adds to the credibility of the CSS Hospitality & Hotel division. Our expertise in providing start-to-finish logistic solutions from the planning to execution stage, has rewarded us with strong customer partnerships”, mentioned Rosh Manoli, General Manager Sales Department, CSS Dubai.

Chicago Meatpackers is a casual meat-focused eatery and lounge inspired by the freight trains and cattle markets that once dominated the famous Chicago Meatpacking district known as “The Yards”. Their contemporary restaurant is a great place to get the crew together, kick back and enjoy fresh cut steaks, authentic burgers and drinks. They use the freshest of meats and ingredients to ensure that the meal is packed with flavor.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

DUBAI EXPORTS SIGNS MOU WITH CONSOLIDATED SHIPPING SERVICES GROUP


Dubai Exports and CSS Group decided to work closer with signing an MoU in the month of August. The memorandum of Understanding was signed by Eng. Saed Al Awadhi, CEO of Dubai Exports and Mr. T S Kaladharan, Chairman of Consolidated Shipping Services Group. It will be to encourage competitive opportunities in providing value added services to DE members, as well as working together to share business information, promote and facilitate business opportunities.

MBA STUDENTS FROM THE US VISIT CSS


CSS Dubai office recently welcomed a group of Business Management students from the Texas Christian University, USA. As part of their study abroad programme, the Executive MBA students; Stephanie Kuntz, Dwayne Roberts, Keith Harris and Sam Jordan spent time at the CSS facilities in Jebal Ali to learn about best practices in the logistics and freight forwarding industry in the UAE. Their trip was aimed at knowing more about conducting business globally, with a focus on the three countries they visited, which were India, UAE & Hungary. “We thoroughly enjoyed our meeting with CSS and learned a great deal about the freight forwarding industry in the region,” mentioned the students’ team in one voice.

They had a one-on-one session with Ajay Krishnan, COO of Freight Forwarding at CSS who shared with them in-depth insights on trading patterns, customs and trade procedures and individual customer/vendor’s processes with regard to how they are aligned to country regulations and trade practices. “A refreshing discussion, allowing us and our visitors the chance to impart experience/knowledge of both on the ground realities as well as concepts, forthcoming. We at the CSS Group have always welcomed these opportunities, and are open to more such discussions going forward.” Mentioned Ajay.

FROM DUBAI WITH LOVE

GARFIELD MOVED TO HONG KONG BY HOMEWARD BOUND

CSS Homeward Bound was recently approached by a pet owner in Dubai, (Client doesn’t wish to disclose the name) for a relocation. The requirement was for an adorable cat named Garfield, and the move was to Hong Kong. CSS Homeward Bound was more than enthusiastic in providing professional assistance for Garfield’s travel. Garfield stayed in a foster home for a few weeks as his mom had to be in India first before heading to Hongkong. CSS HWB arranged to transport and took him from the foster home the night of his scheduled flight.

For pet owners, pet relocation to a new country can cause many headaches; moving, quarantining, and registering your pet in your new home country are all stress-inducing. When moving your pet abroad, you need to make an informed decision as to whether your pet is up for the trip. This is where a professional moving company like CSS Homeward bound, has the real role to play.

They studied about Garfield’s likes and dislikes from its owner. The recent medical history of the cat, illnesses if any, food habits etc, also play a very important role prior to move. Most pet owners treat their pets as a member of the family. So, when they hand over the pet to the relocation company, they are handing over a part of their sentiment. The moving company also has to have an outlook broader than normal to see and treat this family member with respect and much care. Homeward Bound team executed this sentimental move with the utmost passion, that they received thankful feedbacks from the client.

STAGE DRAMA IN COLOMBO

CSS SRI LANKA INVOLVES IN BRAND AWARENESS ACTIVITY

CSS Sri Lanka got an opportunity to involve in a cultural programme in Colombo. Recently the drama enthusiasts gathered at the Tower hall Colombo to witness a Sinhala stage drama, “Balloth ekka baha 2” organized by the welfare society of a company named Douglas and Sons. Being a loyal customer to CSS, they invited CSS to the programme and meet and greet the audience. CSS Sri Lanka team visited the venue, took part in the programme and promoted their leaflets and flyers as part of brand building activity.

A JOURNEY PAR EXCELLENCE

CONSOLE SHIPPING SERVICES INDIA PVT. LTD

CSS Group has made remarkable progress in the Indian Sub-continent with a well reputed brand identity. Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd. Is today one of the front runners and a respectable brand within Shipping and Logistics. CSS India operates as three major regions namely Northern, Central and Southern regions which control major cities and gateway ports in their respective domains. CSS North Indian operations are evenly spread out with deep roots of business in-lanes created through Punjab, Haryana and other manufacturing centres of the Northern Region. “The demand for Logistics services has been largely driven by the remarkable growth of the Indian economy. The growth cannot be judged with any short term situations, but it is totally dependent on the infrastructural development and the policies adopted by the government. CSS India has got aspirations in gaining greater momentum in the region” Commented Rajesh Arora VP, CSS North India.

CSS has seen a steady growth in its central Indian operations controlled from the commercial capital, Mumbai, over the past years. The remarkable progress in the export segment and projects has attracted major brands to CSS. “We are mainly focussing on relationship marketing which is by far the most important thing required. The overall prospects for the logistics segment in the country are promising as well” mentioned Rahat Talreja, VP, CSS Central India.

The country’s logistics industry is projected to be worth $215 billion by 2020-21, recording a 10 per cent compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) over its approximate size of $160 billion in 2016-17. It’s been calculated that the logistics players in India may gain due to several reasons such as increased domestic consumption, rising exports, surging container volumes, loosening infrastructure bottlenecks and increased investments in the new facilities. Development of logistics related infrastructure, like dedicated freight corridors, logistics parks, free trade warehousing zones and container freight stations, are expected to improve efficiency, as per reports.

Console Shipping Services towards the Southern region is headquartered in Chennai with offices spread out in Tirupur, Tuticorin, Coimbatore and Bangalore. South has recently witnessed some commendable achievements in the field of Projects Movement, especially Machinery. “It is a welcome initiative from the Government of India to create freight corridors and Logistics Park in the National Highways. Southern region, where the infrastructural developments are by far the best compared to the other parts of the country, will greatly benefit from this new development” commented T K Viswanath, General Manager, South India.

Today, Console shipping services India, with its strategic positioning in major cities and gateway ports, is capable of handling all types of logistics movement both Imports and exports from any remotest part of the country.

LI LIAN INTERNATIONAL LTD V. HERPORT HONG KONG LTD (MOL COMFORT) [2019] HKCFI 826 [2019] HKEC 964 – A REVIEW

This decision of the Hong Kong Court illustrates one of the potential risks associated with acting as a Non Vessel Owning Common

Carrier and the importance of protecting time in all potential jurisdictions when it comes to claiming indemnity.

Facts:
An NVOC (Herport) issued bills of lading in Hong Kong for carriage of cargo on ‘MOL Comfort’ from Hong Kong to Le Havre. Ocean bills were issued (by NYK) also in Hong Kong, indicating Herport as the shipper.
Unfortunately, the ship fractured amidships in the Indian Ocean, split into two halves and drifted for several days before sinking together with all goods on board.
Cargo interests and their insurers claimed against Herport under the NVOC bills; Herport issued a third party indemnity notice against NYK.

Contentions:
The main issue was conflict of law arose due to the exclusive clauses added in both B/L.
The Herport’s B/L provided exclusive jurisdiction to Hong Kong Courts whereas NYK’s B/L provided exclusive jurisdiction to Tokyo District Court in Japan under the following terms:
The contract evidenced by or contained in this bill of lading shall be governed and construed by Japanese law except as may be provided for herein, and (b) notwithstanding anything else contained in this bill of lading or in any other contract, any and all actions against the carrier in respect of the goods or arising out of the carriage shall be brought before the Tokyo District Court in Japan to the exclusion of jurisdiction of any other courts whilst any such actions against the merchant may be brought before the said Court or any other competent court at the carrier’s option.
NYK argued over the jurisdiction of the case stating that as per the clause in their Bill of lading the Jurisdiction would be Tokyo District in Japan and shall be governed and construed by the Japanese Law, also there were already two legal proceedings in Tokyo in relation to the subject damage thus NYK submitted that Hong Kong had no jurisdiction over the matter.
Herport disputed that the clause mentioned on the NYK BL is not valid as the clause is restricted only to claims under Japanese law and no other indemnity claims would fall under the same provision. They had placed the burden on NYK to prove that Hong Kong was not the right forum for the case.

Judgement:
Judge went by NYK’s contention stating that the clause on NYK bill of lading was very clear and it carried no ambiguities. The Court Stated that Herport had not submitted strong reasons to prove that the Court had jurisdiction and also Herport had to be aware that he may have to proceed against NYK in Tokyo as expressed in the Bill of Lading. The argument of Herport on forum non conveniens was also not accepted by the Court. The Court took a generous interpretation of the exclusive jurisdiction clause.
Thus the case was ruled in favour of NYK. The decision was inconvenient for Herport as the claim was time barred under Tokyo jurisdiction.
Having said the above, the judgement has missed out addressing if the claim can be acceptable under Tokyo Court as per 3 (6 bis) of Hague Visby Rules, to which both Japan and Hong Kong are signatory and this clause would have assisted Herport to fight the issue.

DP WORLD ANNOUNCES STRONG FINANCIAL RESULTS

DP WORLD GROUP CHAIRMAN AND CEO, SULTAN AHMED BIN SULAYEM CREDITED THE COMPANY’S STRATEGY OF DEVELOPING INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS AND SERVICES AND PRUDENT MANAGEMENT FOR DP WORLD’S IMPRESSIVE HALF-YEAR RESULTS.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 22Aug 2019: DP World Group Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem credited the company’s strategy of developing innovative new products and services and prudent management for DP World’s impressive half-year results. Bin Sulayem added that DP World’s excellent performance against the backdrop of challenging global economic conditions is a testament to the company’s resilience, sound growth strategy and the diversification of its global investment portfolio across energy, maritime and sustainable mobility amongst others.

The statement was made as global trade enabler DP World PLC announced strong financial results today for the six months ending 30 June 2019 with reported adjusted EBITDA and attributable earnings growth of 21.9% and 26.8% respectively.

“Our half-year financial results have been in line with our expectations, Mr Bin Sulayem said. He highlighted that DP World continues to be guided by deep market understanding, innovation and operational excellence across 45 countries worldwide. Despite uncertainty from the trade war and challenging regional geopolitical realities, DP World has been able to deliver and excel a broadly impressive performance in the first half of 2019.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World, added:“DP World is pleased to report like-for-like earnings growth of 22% in the first half of 2019 and attributable earnings of $753 million. This strong financial performance has been delivered in an uncertain trade environment, once again highlighting the strength of our portfolio.

We have continued to make progress on our strategy to become a trade enabler and solutions provider as we look to participate across a wider part of the supply chain. We have invested significantly across our Ports, Logistics & Maritime Services businesses. The aim is to connect directly with customers to offer logistics solutions and remove inefficiencies in the supply chain to accelerate trade. We are seeing positive signs of progress in our new businesses that give us encouragement for the future.

“Our balance sheet remains strong, and we continue to generate high levels of cash flow, which gives us the ability to invest in the future growth of our current portfolio. Going forward, we aim to integrate our new acquisitions and deliver synergies with the objective of providing smart end-to-end solutions, which will improve the quality of our earnings and drive returns.

“While the near-term trade outlook remains uncertain with global trade disputes and regional geopolitics causing uncertainty to the container market, the strong financial performance of the first six months also leaves us well placed to deliver full-year results slightly ahead of market expectations.”

Chairman’s Message

No one can dispute the fact that our business sector is constantly and rapidly evolving. I am therefore particularly proud that, over the past twenty-five years, CSS has gained recognition as a global leader in international transport and logistics. We are honoured to have achieved this, even more so because it highlights our core belief of maintaining strong values of discipline dedicated to providing high-quality service.

Growing businesses face many challenges and CSS is no exception. However as different opportunities and problems demand distinct solutions, one thing is for sure, such challenges provide development outcomes which should confirm that a business is on the right path for growth. Personally, I believe that, in this context, talent management strategy is one of the dominant prerequisites. It’s a must for any growing business.

It’s well known maxim that we are all happier when we feel we are able to achieve our best. This means placing the right people in the right place so they are able to utilise their maximum talent. Obviously there are many factors that influence this process. Nowadays, whilst the skills of ‘Human Resources’ have gained significance, CSS has endeavoured to inculcate their disciplines since our inauguration. The strategy of talent management is a process that cascades from the top to the bottom line. Meticulous understanding of each person’s abilities is a must and it provides a linchpin for ‘Human Resources’. This is something we have been doing, within CSS, for years. For some ‘Human Resources’ only recently came into prominence but, ensuring that the right people are in the right roles and have the right capabilities; has always been important for CSS. It’s part of our characteristic spirit that has not only stood CSS in good stead but also will serve us well ahead for our future growth.

Top Customer Award

CSS HONORED BY CMA CGM

The CSS Group received the Top Customer Award from CMA CGM in appreciation for their support in the year 2018. The award was handed over to Chandrakala (CK), CSS Group COO, NVOCC, at the CSS Group Regional Head Quarters in Jebel Ali on the 02nd May 2019.

The CMA CGM “Top Customer Award” was handed over by Anshika Bhatia, Asst. Trade Manager, Exports (Europe/ Med). Santosh Devasper, Commercial Manager and Pradeep Vallath, Manager Key Accounts/VIP Desk were also present from CMA CGM during the occasion.

“CSS Group is honored to have been awarded with this recognition from CMA CGM, and we value this partnership. We have always ensured to maintain global standards in all our service parameters. Our relationship with CMA CGM over the years proved to be a progressive and mutually beneficial one,” mentioned Chandrakala on the occasion. Rosh Manoli, General Manager Sales & marketing and Angeli Sudheer, Manager Pricing & Customer Service Desk, CSS Dubai were also present during the function.

Founded in Marseille in 1978 the CMA CGM Group is the third-largest container shipping company globally. Present in over 160 countries through 755 agencies, 750 warehouses and 110,000 employees and a diverse fleet of 509 vessels. CMA CGM serves 420 of the world’s 521 commercial ports and operates on more than 200 shipping lines.

CSS Group with its large presence in the Middle East and South Asia, looks forward to seeing the relationship grow manifold, with CMA CGM in the years to come.

Strategic Association

CSS HOMEWARD BOUND JOIN HANDS WITH PEBA


CSS Homeward Bound, the renowned packing and relocation company based in Dubai, announced its partnership with PEBA (Philippine Expats Basketball Association) on June 11th, 2019. The ten-month sponsorship deal with PEBA will give CSS access to more than five thousand of its members in the UAE. The marketing alliance is a strategic move undertaken by CSS Homeward Bound who have recently launched a marketing campaign targeting Overseas Filipino Workers in the UAE.

Dr. Britto Satheesh, GM of the CSS Homeward brand under the CSS Group said, “In recognition of the contribution of the Overseas Filipino Worker, we decided to create a special marketing offer on the Balikbayan Box for those who want to send back special items to their loved ones. This took a life of its own when we saw its success amongst our Filipino clientele prompting us to further our commitment to the Filipino community. PEBA is an ideal platform for CSS Homeward Bound to reach the 5000+ Filipino members that the organization holds.”

In connection with the contract signing, Homeward Bound and PEBA had jointly organized a media launch at the “Somewhere Hotel” in Dubai on 11th June 2019, in which some of the prominent names amongst the Media and social media influencers participated. During the event prizes were given out to influencers and vloggers who have been putting the event on live. A raffle draw was organised to fetch prize winners for 1 regular balikbayan box, 1 jumbo balikbayan box and 1 jumbo balikbayan box with free delivery and one LED TV.

Ajay Krishnan, COO of Freight Forwarding – CSS Group added, “Our foray into the Balikbayan space has been long coming. The association with PEBA is a significant boost to our efforts to add value to the OFW community here in the region, what we intend to do in the UAE is only the beginning of an organized product that we will eventually roll out to the rest of the GCC origins.”

PEBA (Philippine Expats Basketball Association), is currently the biggest and longest running basketball association in the United Arab Emirates due to its successful community support and various charity programs not only in Dubai but also in the Philippines. PEBA has initiated an all year-round sports plan for the region which has been designed to ensure that basketball, the most popular sport amongst Filipinos, continues to have an increase in its status and opportunities in the region.

To South America from the Middle East

CSS PROJECTS TEAM MOVE MI-8 CHOPPER TO ITS DESTINATION

It was yet another feather on the cap of the CSS Dubai team when they successfully executed the shipment of Mi- 8 chopper from the Middle East to South America, recently. The whole process of transportation was done for the Mi-8 helicopter using modes of transport, which included Air, Land and Sea to get it to its final destination in South America. Mi-8 helicopters are medium twin-turbine helicopters with capabilities of passenger transportation and was airlifted from the origin point in the Middle East to DWC Airport via IL-76 aircraft. The fuselage and the tail rotor were dismantled and loaded on the aircraft using the onboard cranes and offloaded the same way once the aircraft arrived at DWC Airport.

“It was a meticulously planned and executed project from our side, and high expertise is needed for such movements. Every point of the move has to be carefully studied before preparing the blue print. Our prior experience mattered a lot in the successful execution of this job. Thanks to the team who took part in this job” Commented Anita Jaikrishnan, Manager, Special Projects.

Once the fuselage and its dismantled parts were loaded on low bed trucks, it made its way to the CFS of CSS in Jebel Ali. The CSS crew was ready with all of the necessary equipment to cross load the unit onto a 40’ Flat Rack and other gear for the different parts of the helicopter, viz, the rotor blades, engines etc. The unit was then loaded onto a 40’ Flat Rack, after which, the professional lashing team got to work, securing the unit with belts and chains before finally giving it a proper wrapping with a reinforced tarpaulin before sending it off to the port.

Ramadan at CSS

A DONATION DRIVE WAS ORGANIZED FOR A COLLECTION OF MATERIALS FOR DISTRIBUTION

The holy month of Ramadan was well observed with some significant initiatives within the CSS Group. As usual, an Iftar party was organized for the staff at the Regional Headquarters in Jebel Ali wherein the participation was remarkable. Food packets were distributed amongst the staff and management during the function.

A donation drive was organized throughout the holy month, which was well received by the staff of the company. Boxes for collection of dress, shoes, toiletries, and snacks were kept at the Headquarters, Homeward bound, and Abu Dhabi offices and the closed boxes after collection was handed over to the Red Crescent society for distribution. “Ramadan is a time of generosity and giving, and we wanted to allow the staff to have easy access to helping others by donating things that they no longer require or by purchasing new things.” Mentioned Sasikala, Manager, Corporate communications, CSS Group.

The Management of CSS conveyed their Eid Al Fitr message to the staff members and well-wishers of the group company.