Pedro Vásquez Terminal and Commercial Manager QC TERMINALES CHILE
"In the context of marked fluctuations such as the pandemic and global economic conflicts, ensuring process certainty and security is fundamental for our clients in the liquid storage terminals sector."
How has QC Terminals faced the challenges of the current petrochemical industry cycle, particularly in the logistics segment?
The chemical industry and logistics experience constant cycles of highs and lows influenced by diverse events such as the pandemic and global conflicts, among others. We are always considering and integrating these challenges into our management, which is an essential part of our commitment as problem solvers. During recent months, our focus at QC Terminals has been on resolving challenges and supporting our clients in maintaining their competitiveness and managing competitive rates, which has always been our goal. This strategy has enabled us to succeed in a fluctuating and demanding environment.
Furthermore, over the past five years, we have diversified our offering to include a wide range of products such as polymers, greases, oils, lubricants, fertilizers, asphalts, and even fuels. This diversification has allowed us to cover almost all needs in the logistics management of liquid bulk in our region, acting strategically and creating a buffer against industry cycles. Our high occupancy rate, close to 100%, and long-term contracts with clients who have been with us for decades reflect continuous trust in our commitment to quality, added value, flexibility, and adaptation to environmental and safety regulations.
Our rates reflect our commitment to added value and are continuously adjusted to various regulations. Why is infrastructure development considered a "marathon" rather than a short race?
In the context of marked fluctuations such as the pandemic and global economic conflicts, ensuring process certainty and security is fundamental for our clients in the liquid storage terminals sector.
Regarding the challenges posed by new infrastructures in neighboring countries to Chile, we are committed to this process, albeit at a different pace. We recognize that these projects are long-term, from construction to the consolidation of commercial operations. Maintaining a steady and secure pace in this development marathon is essential, especially in a context like Chile's, where prudence is crucial. What is QC Terminals' approach to the use of AI?
We have distinguished ourselves by our rapid technological adoption, pioneering nationwide wifi networks, and widespread integration of informatics in educational processes. Although it is currently the talk of the town, we have been implementing it in our systems for years.
We aim to strategically direct AI, using algorithms and data analysis methods to optimize specific performances according to our needs. Proper management of databases and records is essential; only what is measured can be controlled, and only what is controlled can be improved. What is the relevance of the annual logistics meetings organized by APLA for companies like QC Terminals?
The meetings where quality information from various areas is shared are crucial for QC Terminals. They act as filters where information is selected and compared to establish benchmarks between us and our clients. These meetings are opportunities to identify common points and facilitate the match between our solutions and the client's needs, which is fundamental for maintaining relevance and competitiveness in the market.