First freight shipment to arrive on ‘Brexit buster’ route from Africa to the UK

A shipment of 100 loads of organic seasonal fruit and vegetables is shortly scheduled northbound. The route will now run once a week and largely comprise the transportation of dry and refrigerated freight.

The new route cuts journey times on goods to and from the UK to less than three days, compared to more than six days on the road.

The route will be used to encourage British importers to source fresh produce and other products directly from Africa, and export companies looking to enhance their southbound trade to Africa.

The route has been in planning for over two years and will help bypass post-Brexit traffic congestion and import procedures on goods arriving via Europe. It will also help to reduce emissions compared to current logistic chains by road.

Captain Brian Murphy, Marine and Port Director at Poole Harbour Commissioners, said: “The Port of Poole has been working closely with United Seaways to get this ‘Brexit Buster’ service up and running. The service will provide a greener and more time efficient option for importers and exporters from both kingdoms and we look forward to receiving the first shipment from Tangiers shortly.”