Canada Special: Connecting African commodities producers with Chinese demand

Montreal-based CSL Group, a top provider of marine dry bulk cargo handling and delivery services, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013. Having developed expertise in self-unloading and transhipment solutions, it is now the world's largest owner and operator of self-unloading vessels.

These vessels are equipped with on-board cargo-handling systems, which enable them to discharge cargo without the need for shore-based unloading machinery. The group's "transhippers" have adapted its gravity-based technology to meet the rigorous requirements of high-volume shipment with systems designed and built to meet - and more often, surpass - the highest technological, safety and environmental standards.

CSL Group currently handles over 30 million tons of cargo annually, through its global offices in Singapore, the UK, Norway, Australia, the US and Canada. Rod Jones, its president and CEO, understands the importance of doing business with China.