Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) subsidiary operating at the Port of Umm Qasr in Iraq, recently handled its three millionth TEU.
The milestone was achieved during the handling of Evergreen’s Ever Uranus and coincided with BGT’s seventh year of operations at the country’s premiere maritime gateway. BGT commenced operations in 2014 and now holds the record as the only container terminal in Umm Qasr to handle three million TEUs.
“Three million TEUs in seven years is a remarkable feat. We continue to focus on strong collaborative efforts with all our customers – the shipping lines, cargo owners and transporters – to maximize our efficiency. Through efficient operations, digitalization, and focus on safety, BGT reaffirms its commitment to supporting the country’s economy and providing world-class service to our growing customer base,” said Romeo Salvador, BGT Chief Executive Officer.
Since BGT started operations, ICTSI has invested more than USD250 million to modernize the multipurpose terminal. The investments include the construction of three new berths at BGT East, rehabilitation and expansion of the three existing berths and the terminal yard, acquisition of new equipment including three post-Panamax quay cranes – the largest in Iraq, and implementation of state-of-the-art systems, all of which have helped BGT maintain its market leader position.
BGT is the first and currently the only terminal in Iraq capable of efficiently handling 14,000-TEU capacity boxships. This unique and exclusive advantage continues to help the Port of Umm Qasr attract new services, especially ones that are operated by larger vessels.
Source: ICTSI
