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The Gulftainer-operated Sharjah Container Terminal (SCT) has achieved robust double-digit growth over the first six months of 2014. This performance reflects higher volumes on the UAE-East Africa trade route, as well as new projects and developments in Sharjah itself.
So far this year SCT has signed up more than 20 new consignees and increased its regional market share. As a result the terminal is on track to exceed targeted throughput by the end of the year. The strong performance of SCT, Gulftainer’s longest running operation, features a steady growth in import volumes for textiles, electronics, spare parts and tyres in particular.
Peter Richards, managing director of Gulftainer, said: “The positive performance of SCT is led by the improved trade climate, specifically between the UAE and African nations. The port continues to be a popular choice for shipping lines, as it offers a flexible and cost-efficient alternative to access the UAE hinterland.”
To enhance existing Customs procedures and to ensure a more rapid and seamless movement of containers through the port, SCT has introduced an online application system to automate information exchange between the Sharjah Port Authority, Customs and Gulftainer. The new feature has already helped to reduce delivery times for consignees, the company claims.
Part of the Crescent Enterprises group, Gulftainer’s current portfolio includes four UAE operations in Khorfakkan, Sharjah, Hamriyah and Ruwais, as well as activities at Umm Qasr, in Iraq, Recife in Brazil, Tripoli Port in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia where it manages container terminals in Jeddah and Jubail. The company has recently signed a 35-year concession with the Canaveral Port Authority in Florida marking Gulftainer’s first venture in the United States.
