Delivering Quality Logistics Information Since 1947
May 1st, 2008 — Editorial, Issue 7 May 2008
Tackling security can be hazardous, but times are changing
Between running to interviews, servicing my car and buying furniture, I spent a lot of time this month trying to find my way in Al Quoz and fearing of my life. Would one of those big trucks drive over me? Is that warehouse going to explode? Am I going to die from lung cancer from breathing in this noxious air?
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, LOG.Notes
Those in the GCC surely will remember February’s internet blackout. Employees were sent home from work, as communication within the region grinded to a halt. The official explanation? Korean and Iraqi registered ships dropped anchor. Right on top of the cable! Accidentally, of course. Can anyone tell me the
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, LOG.Cafe
“In the past 17 years I have not turned off my mobile phone,” says Mahmood Amin, Chief Executive Officer, Group Security & Dubai Security Services, who often receives phone calls in the middle of the night. “But all the time I am smiling when I answer it,” he adds.
Mahmood Mohd. Amin, Chief Exec Officer, Group Security & Dubai Security Services
It’s no surprise Amin receives calls at all hours, considering he heads the security department for over 50 of Dubai’s most important organisations, including DP World, JAFZA, Dubai Maritime City, Tejari, Istithmar, Port Zayed and Dubai Drydocks World.
May 1st, 2008 — Guest Column, Issue 7 May 2008
Some experts have said that a strong risk management process can decrease problems on a project by as much as 80 or 90 per cent. In combination with solid project management practices — having a well-defined scope, incorporating input from the appropriate stakeholders, following a good change
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, Trends
With last month’s hijacking of the French luxury yacht Le Ponant, shippers should be reminded that off the coast of East Africa, piracy is alive and well. This isn’t the sort depicted in Hollywood, or glorified in historical accounts, but rather a modern and sophisticated operation, where mobile phones, speedboats, and assault rifles are the tools of the trade.
"We stood facing each other. No one had ever pointed a loaded gun at me before and staring into the barrels, I became weak with fear. I knew I had to maintain some control. The older boy massaged the trigger with his forefinger.
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, Special
Qatar’s economy is developing at a rapid pace. Business are growing as a result but are also facing several problems caused by accelerated growth. While the government is responding, there is still plenty of room for improvement. But business such as Bin Yousef are eagerly awaiting the many proposed changes.
Managing Director George Matthew (front left) and CEO Sajith Sarathchandran (front right) surrounded by their Bin Yousef Team
“Qatar is probably one of the fastest growing economies in the world,” says Sajith Sarathchandran, CEO, of Bin Yousef Cargo Express, based in Doha. “You can see the changes everywhere, every nook and cranny of the country.”
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, Special
After hosting the Asian games in 2006, Qatar has its eyes on the 2016 Olympics. The sport-minded country has put forward its Doha 2016 Application File to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and says it will continue to lobby the international community for its support.
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, Special
With the economic boom currently taking place in Doha, Doha Port is grappling with all the traffic it is experiencing. The need for a new port is urgent and since it’s on its way, it will be a welcome relief once it’s ready.
May 1st, 2008 — Issue 7 May 2008, Management
Within global supply chains, risk management is often the unspoken variable. Recognized standards for security practices have frequently fallen victim to lack of understanding, poor execution, and unregulated handling of goods. The blame is often difficult to assign, as shipments regularly change hands, accountability becomes diluted. With the implementation of ISO 28000, a benchmark of international standards will be set, seeking to coalesce the individual codes of nations among the various supply chain industries.
May 1st, 2008 — Analysis, Issue 7 May 2008
Air cargo has been a lucrative business for many years. But, the golden days are over, as it appears from the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Rome. The aeroplane is losing market share to the container sector. IATA chairman Giovanni Bisignani warns: “Fasten your seatbelts. It will be a rocky ride.
Giovanni Bisignani, Chairman, IATA
There is yet no acute panic but the airlines are worried about the loss of cargo to the much cheaper container traffic.
