Infrastructure Is A Global Problem

June 7, 2007
In just three years, global container volumes will have doubled from 2000 levels, says Ron Widdows, CEO of ocean carrier APL. Massive investments to modernize

In just three years, global container volumes will have doubled from 2000 levels, says Ron Widdows, CEO of ocean carrier APL. Massive investments to modernize and expand the infrastructure are necessary or the result will be congestion that will slow economic growth rates and add costs to global supply chains.

Speaking to a conference of European ministers of transport, Widdows said emerging economies in India and Vietnam need to build and expand ports and inland road and rail infrastructures.

In addition, Widdows pointed out, expansion and improved efficiency are crucial for consumer economies in the United States and Europe.

Widdows also supported greater use of rail in Europe to supplement road transport.

Widdows has been delivering a similar message in the US, pointing out in both cases that current efforts have only succeeded in transferring congestion from the ports to the inland transport infrastructure.