The UAE-based AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group to Develop New Multipurpose Terminal in Pointe Noire, Congo-Brazzaville

The UAE-based terminal operator AD Ports Group has signed a shareholders’ agreement with French shipping and logistics major CMA CGM Group, through its subsidiary CMA Terminals, to jointly develop, manage, and operate the New East Mole multipurpose terminal in Pointe Noire, Congo-Brazzaville.

AD Ports and CMA CGM have formed a joint venture, with AD Ports Group holding the majority ownership, to operate the multipurpose terminal at the Port of Pointe Noire. The terminal will handle various types of cargo, including containers, general cargo, and break-bulk shipments, at the largest Atlantic port in the Central West African nation.

AD Ports Group secured a 30-year extendable concession for the terminal in June 2023, with plans to invest approximately $220 million in Phase 1 of the project. This phase includes the construction of a 400-meter quay wall at a 16-meter depth and a 10-hectare logistics area.

The agreement between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group strengthens their partnership following the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port last December. This $845 million container terminal expansion project at Khalifa Port is set to increase the port’s container capacity by 33% by 2024.

CMA CGM holds a significant market share in The Republic of Congo, being a key player in exports and ranking second in imports and transshipment activities. The joint venture between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM will operate the terminal as a multi-user facility, with AD Ports Group maintaining majority ownership in its management and operations.

According to Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, the collaboration with CMA CGM in developing the New East Mole multipurpose terminal underscores their commitment to enhancing global trade connectivity. The partnership aims to position the Republic of Congo as a central hub for maritime trade, aligning with the country’s projected container volume growth of 3% to 5% annually.

Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President for Assets and Operations at CMA CGM Group, expressed excitement about the investment in the Port of Pointe Noire, highlighting the sustainable benefits of the project. The terminal has already ordered environmentally friendly handling equipment, including Super Post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes and hybrid rubber-tyred gantry cranes, which offer significant reductions in diesel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The partnership between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group signifies a significant step towards promoting sustainable maritime infrastructure and trade facilitation in The Republic of Congo. The development of the New East Mole multipurpose terminal is expected to contribute to the country’s economic growth and environmental sustainability goals.