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Imports from Pakistan through Khorfakkan Container Terminal arrive a day earlier than other ports, resulting in significant cost savings, claims Sharjah-based Gulftainer. As a result, it is a more cost-effective and efficient shipment process for exports coming from Pakistan to route via KCT, as shipping companies can save 10-12% of their network expenses by sailing to Khorfakkan due to lower vessel fuel costs, the terminal operator states.
Andrew Hoad, Chief Commercial Officer at Gulftainer, says, “Pakistan and the UAE have historically always had great trade relations, a trend that continues strongly till today. We have determined that the KCT is a highly efficient port to transport valuable exports from Pakistan, resulting in future growth and enhanced business relations between the two countries.”
He continued, “Through KCT, shipments reach the UAE a day earlier as compared to transit through other ports. Additionally, transit time between KCT and consignee warehouses is reduced by four to five days on average, compared to imports through other terminals in the UAE.”
Volumes at KCT have traditionally been dependent on transshipment activities. However, these have fallen in recent times and Gulftainer is positioning the terminal more as a gateway port into local markets. A statement describes it as a “convenient land bridge to local container imports further into the UAE” with “more direct access compared to terminals situated in neighbouring areas, resulting in significantly reduced shipment processing and transit times.”
Recently Gulftainer has won an International Safety Award from the British Safety Council in recognition of its commitment to keeping its workers and workplaces healthy and safe during 2022. Dan Wright, Chief Operating Officer, of Gulftainer, accepted the award, commenting: “The health and safety of our employees will always remain our priority. This award underscores our success and commitment to ensuring that Gulftainer terminals remain one of the world’s safest workplaces.”
Gulftainer UAE terminals achieved some significant safety milestones during the last 12 months, including attaining more than 1 million man hours with no Lost Time Injury incidents. During the last year, the Gulftainer QHSE management team has conducted over 14,000 hours of training, including inductions, equipment refresher training, HSE updates, and first aid and fire-fighting training. In addition, management teams have carried out more than 175 safety walks and daily inspections, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all employees and visitors.
