Shipping lines are now prioritising the discharge of import-laden containers over the evacuation of empty units, following a sustained surge in cargo volumes at Apapa Port, a move that has increased the backlog of empty containers further congesting the terminal yard.

The terminal congestion is now raising concern among port users, who alleged that APM Terminals Apapa has stopped receiving empty containers, further worsening the situation.

The management of APM Terminals Apapa, while responding to the concerns surrounding the congestion of empty containers at its terminal yard and logistics operation, said this development is not due to a failure in terminal operations, but rather a systemic issue stemming from the imbalance in container traffic.

The Terminal Manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Steen Knudsen, clarified that the management of empty container evacuation into the terminal and subsequent shipment onto vessels is the exclusive responsibility of shipping lines, which own and control all containers.

Knudsen explained that the root causes of the situation is due to a sharp and sustained surge in import cargo volumes over recent weeks, which has made shipping lines have had to prioritise discharging incoming laden containers over evacuating empties.

He said this operational shift has resulted in a growing inventory of empty containers within the terminal, significantly limiting yard space.

Knudsen said as a result of this accumulation, the terminal has had to temporarily restrict the reception of additional empty containers until the existing stock is cleared by the shipping lines.

He acknowledged the ripple effects of the restriction across the logistics chain, especially for truck operators, consignees, and inland depots, many of whom depend on timely container returns to maintain cargo flow.

“Shipping lines play a key role in ensuring containers are loaded out as empties once they are returned. Unfortunately, the high volume of imports is tipping that balance. We are committed to doing everything within our operational capacity to support the clearing of this backlog,” the statement added.

Knudsen noted that the terminal is actively engaging the shipping lines and relevant government authorities to expedite vessel evacuation of empty containers.

The terminal manager appealed to landside customers, truck operators and other stakeholders to kindly bear with the temporary restrictions and delays in receiving empties while assuring them that every effort is being made to normalise the situation.