AD Ports Group has entered into a shareholders’ agreement with CMA CGM Group, a leading global logistics provider, through its subsidiary CMA Terminals, to jointly develop, manage, and operate the New East Mole multipurpose terminal in Pointe Noire, Congo-Brazzaville. The agreement follows AD Ports Group’s acquisition of a 30-year extendable concession for the terminal in June 2023.
The agreement establishes a joint venture, with AD Ports Group holding majority ownership, to oversee the terminal at the Port of Pointe Noire. This facility, the largest Atlantic port in Central West Africa, will handle various types of cargo, including containers, general, and break-bulk shipments.
Khalifa Port’s capacity will expand by 33% in 2024 as the AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) container terminal increases it by 2.6 million TEUs.
CMA CGM currently leads in exports and ranks second in imports and transshipment in the Republic of Congo, holding around 35% of the country’s container volume market share. The joint venture has confirmed that the terminal will operate as a ‘multi-user’ facility, with AD Ports Group retaining controlling ownership of its management and operations.
Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO, AD Ports Group, stated that this partnership builds on previous joint ventures, positioning the Republic of Congo as a key maritime hub. Christine Cabau Woehrel, EVP for Assets and Operations at CMA CGM Group, emphasised the investment’s role in modernising and sustaining global trade infrastructure.
The terminal is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve global connectivity for Congo-Brazzaville. To enhance operational efficiency, it has already ordered three Super Post-Panamax Ship-to-Shore cranes and nine hybrid Rubber-Tyred Gantry cranes, which will cut diesel consumption by 60%, saving 1 million litres annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 5,000 tonnes.
