Sea

On February 29, 2024, PSA Sines, the terminal operator in Portugal, marked a significant leap into full automation with the introduction of six state-of-the-art, fully automated Rubber Tired Gantry Cranes (aRTGs). This addition to the existing fleet of twenty-nine yard cranes is a pivotal move for PSA Sines, poised to enhance operational efficiency, elevate safety standards, and advance the terminal’s ambitious sustainability targets. Set to be operational by the end of the second quarter of 2024, the new aRTGs will undergo thorough on-site testing and commissioning in the coming weeks as part of Stage One in PSA Sines’s Phase III expansion project.

The unfolding developments in the Red Sea are significantly impacting global supply chains, presenting escalating challenges and disruptions to maritime routes over the past three months. Seafarers in the Red Sea are now facing increased risks as the Houthi Movement’s aggressive policies, particularly targeting vessels associated with Israel, force commercial ships to divert around the African Cape. This redirection adds approximately 10 days to the typical journey from Asia to Europe, reshaping the container shipping market dynamics.

Mr. Asset Assavbayev, the Secretary General of the PS IGC TRACECA, engaged in discussions with representatives from the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku International Sea Trade Port CJSC, and Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company CJSC regarding the future of transit cargo transportation through Azerbaijan. The meeting focused on the Baku port’s activities, its capacity, transported goods statistics, and potential development prospects. To enhance efficiency, Mr. Assavbayev suggested diversifying cargo transportation options, aiming to prevent congestion in the seaport and reduce transit times.

On February 29, 2024, the Antwerp North Heat Network was officially launched by Mayor Bart De Wever, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy practices in the port of Antwerp. The innovative pipeline network, connecting Indaver Antwerp and Boortmalt, allows Boortmalt to utilize residual heat from Indaver’s industrial waste processing as a green alternative to natural gas and combined heat and power (CHP) for malt production. Notably, this network is Belgium’s first ‘open access’ heat network, creating opportunities for new suppliers and customers in the region.

On the agenda of the Association of Maritime Transport Entrepreneurs (AMTE), the results of activities over the past year were discussed, plans for the future were approved and new members were accepted into its composition. Among the companies included in the Supervisory Board of APMT are active participants in the field of maritime transport, such as NMSK Kazmortransflot JSC, OMS Shipping LLP and GAC Kazakhstan LLP.

Representatives of the Turkish holding Albayrak visited the port of Aktau in order to consider the prospects for expanding its activities in the Caspian region. Albayrak, known for its activities in various fields, including maritime transport, is showing interest in the Caspian ports. Chairman of the Board of JSC NC AMTP Abay Turikpenbaev provided guests with detailed information about the capabilities of the port infrastructure, discussed strategic development plans and the volume of upcoming investments. During a tour of the seaport, the management of NC AMCP JSC provided guests with the opportunity to get acquainted with production facilities and port development prospects.

Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd. (OOCL) proudly presents its latest addition to the fleet, the cutting-edge mega containership named “OOCL Abu Dhabi.” This marks the incorporation of the eighth eco-friendly vessel, boasting a capacity of 24,188 TEUs, as part of OOCL’s ongoing optimization of its fleet structure.

The Luka Koper Group celebrates a highly successful year, surpassing expectations and achieving significant milestones in maritime throughput. With net sales revenue reaching EUR 312.8 million, matching 2022 levels, the company excelled in container and car handling, container services, and additional services, despite a decline in storage revenue due to global logistics market normalization. Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) soared to EUR 60.9 million, a 76% increase from the plan, driven by higher sales and reduced costs.

The Port of Riga has recently become a member of a collaborative consortium, which includes Latvia, the UK, and Canada, dedicated to pioneering a unified Remote Operations Centre (ROC). Maritime and ICT experts, alongside researchers from the three nations, convened at a workshop hosted by the Freeport of Riga Authority on February 22 and 23. The primary objective is to jointly develop a Remote Operation and Control (ROC) platform, serving as a robust testing facility for maritime and port operations across partner countries.

During a working visit to the Mangistau region, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Zhumangarin S.M. held a meeting with the heads of Kazakh ports, terminals and merchant fleet in the territory of the seaport of Kuryk. Chairman of the Board of NC AMTP JSC Abay Turikpenbaev presented the distinguished guest with the current state, key performance indicators and implementation of the strategic goals of the Aktau port.