Gassen Dorsamy, CEO of CHCL: "The port must become an efficient and attractive hub"

Gassen Dorsamy, CEO of the Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd (CHCL), expressed his vision for the Port Louis port at a critical time for the country’s economic and logistical challenges. He aims to position CHCL as a modern, high-performing entity that drives competitiveness for the Port Louis port and serves as a leading logistics operator in the region. This transformation will focus on enhanced efficiency, increased digitization, and leveraging the expertise of their teams.

Facing growing regional competition, Dorsamy identified key priorities to boost the port’s competitiveness, including increasing productivity, improving service reliability, and fostering regional cooperation. He emphasized the necessity for the port to become a smooth, efficient, and attractive hub by modernizing equipment and optimizing operations.

In response to the rapid evolution of the logistics sector driven by digitization, CHCL has initiated a comprehensive digital transformation program aimed at bringing operations up to international standards. They are leveraging the Terminal Operating System (TOS) Navis N4 to ensure real-time container tracking and better coordination among port stakeholders.

Dorsamy also highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability, mentioning efforts to adopt greener operations in collaboration with the Mauritius Port Authority. This includes transitioning to cleaner machinery and implementing renewable energy solutions.

Financially, Dorsamy reassured that CHCL is up to date with its debt repayments and manages its finances with rigor and transparency, aiming to demonstrate that a public entity can be efficient and well-managed.

On labor relations, he affirmed the importance of social dialogue, acknowledging good relations with employees while also dealing with some challenges from former workers. He emphasized the value of the workforce and the need for continuous training and recognition.

To address criticisms regarding operational delays at the port, he outlined plans for a complete overhaul of operational processes to eliminate bottlenecks and improve productivity through modernization and digitization.

Lastly, Dorsamy's ambition is to establish CHCL as a model of performance and good governance in the public sector, focusing on accountability, integrity, and service-oriented practices, while contributing to the sustainable development of the country.