ABU DHABI, UAE – AD Ports Group on Saturday announced the signing of a new concession agreement for bulk and general cargo operations with Karachi Port Trust (KPT), a Pakistani federal government agency that that oversees operations of Karachi port.
Under the terms of the 25-year concession agreement, Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML), a joint venture between AD Ports Group, as a majority shareholder, and Kaheel Terminals, a UAE-based company, will develop, operate and manage the bulk and general cargo terminal berths 11-17 at Karachi Port’s East Wharf.
This agreement builds upon the concession agreement secured by AD Ports Group to develop, operate and manage Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) container terminal berths 6-10 at Karachi Port’s East Wharf in June 2023.
In addition to the 800 meters quay for the container terminal, this new concession grants the JV 1,500 meters of additional quay wall for general cargo and bulk operations adjacent to the container terminal and thus gives full operational control of Karachi Port’s East Wharf.
General cargo operations will primarily handle steel, paper and clinker, while the clean bulk terminal will focus on grains and fertilizers.
The JV plans to invest approximately US$75 million in the first two years, including upfront fees, prepayments and investments in superstructure and equipment.
It will be followed by further investment of US$100 million within five years which will be used to increase efficiency and capacity by 75 percent, enabling the terminal to handle up to 14 million tonnes per annum.
As part of the agreement, the JV will take over East Wharf’s existing operations.
The bulk and general cargo terminal, which has been handling around 8 million tonnes per annum historically, is expected to generate revenue of around US$30 million and EBIDTA of around US$10 million annually in the short term, with the terminal’s operations being dollarized.
It is expected to grow in the medium term as upgrade and capacity investments materialize.
UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi said, “This agreement comes as an extension of the strong bonds between the Emirates and Pakistan.”
He said, “It also reflects the UAE’s openness to trade and investment globally, expanding its network of trade partners, and creating trade routes that link the world.”
He added, “This agreement also highlights the shared vision of the two countries on the importance of supporting the maritime sector and enhancing its capabilities to serve the development goals.”
The UAE minister said, “We look forward to continuing to work with the Pakistani side to foster industrial growth and unlock new avenues for investment and economic development, while realizing our wise leaders’ shared vision of progress and prosperity.”
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said, “By extending our cooperation with Karachi Port Trust and investing in key maritime trade routes for the UAE, AD Ports Group is reaffirming its commitment towards strengthening its connectivity within the region.”
He said, “We aim to transform Karachi Port into a dynamic hub for global trade, equipped with leading-edge infrastructure and innovative digital solutions. AD Ports Group remains aligned with our wise leaders’ vision and will continue to spearhead strategic partnerships that drive economic diversification.”
This new concession further consolidates AD Ports Group’s position as a highly invested and cost-effective enabler of trade for the CIS countries by contributing to the supply chain and access to world markets.