AD Ports Group, a key enabler of integrated trade, transport, and logistics, has entered into a shareholders’ agreement with the CMA CGM Group, a global leader in sea, land, air, and logistics solutions. Through its subsidiary, CMA Terminals, the company will collaborate with AD Ports Group to develop, manage, and operate the New East Mole multipurpose terminal in Pointe Noire, Congo-Brazzaville. This 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 operation of the New East Mole multipurpose terminal at the Port of Pointe Noire. The facility will handle containers, general cargo, break-bulk, and other types of shipments at the Republic of Congo’s largest Atlantic port.

At the time of securing the concession, AD Ports Group projected an investment of approximately USD 220 million (AED 807 million) for Phase 1 of the project. This initial phase will include the construction of a 400-metre quay wall with a 16-metre depth, along with a 10-hectare logistics area.

Expanding Strategic Cooperation

The agreement further strengthens the relationship between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group, following their successful inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port in December 2023. The AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) terminal is set to expand Khalifa Port’s container capacity by 33 percent, adding 2.6 million TEUs to its existing 7.8 million TEUs capacity in 2024.

In the Republic of Congo, CMA CGM holds a dominant position in exports and ranks second in imports and transshipment. The company has historically maintained an overall container volume market share of approximately 35 percent in the country.

The newly established joint venture has confirmed that the New East Mole terminal will operate as a multi-user facility, with AD Ports Group retaining majority ownership in management and operations, ensuring full consolidation of activities.

Enhancing Trade and Economic Growth

Commenting on the agreement, Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, regional CEO of AD Ports Group, stated:
“This agreement further enhances our strategic partnership with CMA CGM in several markets and projects along global trade routes, the latest of which was the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port last December. Our collaboration at the Port of Pointe Noire continues this association. We look forward to jointly developing and managing Phase 1 of the New East Mole multipurpose terminal with CMA CGM Group. This partnership will position the Republic of Congo at the centre of maritime trade, in line with projections for annual container volume growth of 3 percent to 5 percent over the medium term.”

Christine Cabau Woehrel, executive vice president for assets and operations at CMA CGM Group, added:
“Our investment with AD Ports Group at the Port of Pointe Noire marks another milestone in our strategic collaboration, as we work together to enable modern, sustainable ports and maritime infrastructure for the next wave of global trade. We look forward to delivering the operational and economic benefits of this sustainable approach to the Republic of Congo and its importers and exporters.”

Investment in Sustainable Port Infrastructure

The New East Mole multipurpose terminal is set to become a key trade hub for the region, facilitating economic growth, job creation, and knowledge transfer while enhancing connectivity between Congo-Brazzaville and global markets.

The terminal has already placed an order for three Super Post-Panamax Ship-to-Shore cranes, representing the latest advancements in high-performance port equipment. Additionally, the facility will receive nine hybrid Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes and other handling equipment. These hybrid RTGs will reduce diesel consumption by up to 60%, saving approximately 1 million litres of fuel annually and cutting 5,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, aligning with the sustainability goals of Congo-Brazzaville.

AD Ports Group has also successfully completed an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the New East Mole terminal, adhering to Congolese regulations and international best practices, including those set by the International Finance Corporation. The ESIA provides key recommendations to enhance social, environmental, and community performance during both the construction and operational phases.

Strengthening Africa’s Supply Chain

As a global leader in port and logistics operations, CMA CGM Group manages 60 port terminals across 30 countries. The company continues to support Central and West Africa’s supply chains through modern fleet operations and terminal infrastructure, including Lekki Deep Sea Port in Nigeria and Kribi Container Terminal in Cameroon.

The collaboration between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group in Pointe Noire is expected to enhance maritime trade in the region, create new economic opportunities, and contribute to the development of sustainable, world-class port infrastructure.

For more information visit www.adportsgroup.com