All Freight Logistics Fiji Limited (AFL) will also increase its freight rate to reflect the international freight rate that is currently imposed to agents on a monthly basis.

While there is no direct impact of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Business Development Manager – CFS & Removal, Apakuki Raisuaki said the business have been affected with the increase in freight charges.

“For this reason, Russia has shut down shipping routes, logistics firms and suspended services that has caused shipping lines to take longer routes and longer transit.”

“This will impact the freight rates with the inclusion of Fuel surcharge.”

“Realistically, we are expecting buffer in Freight Rates in the coming months.”

AFL receives shipments from Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Dubai, U.S.A and the UK.

Once every two months, AFL receives shipment from Canada while cargo comes in from Sydney twice a month.

“Business owners/ importers have continued to find innovative ways to expand their businesses which has resulted in high demand from customers which result in flow of stock. Due to this reason, more imports and exports are done,” Mr Raisuaki said.

Some of the most common cargo shipped to Fiji included second hand clothes, personal effects, hardware material, vehicles/ trucks & parts, pharmaceuticals and electronics items classified as dangerous goods.

For export, Mr Raisuaki adds that AFL out bound’s list of cargo from Fiji ranged from frozen produce, food accessories, kava, vehicles, personal & household items etc.

Feedback: laiseana.nasiga@fijisun.com.fj