Saudi Seaports Experience Record Growth in Cargo Handling
In a stunning development, Saudi seaports have seen an impressive annual increase of 8.09 percent in the volume of cargo handled during the month of May, reaching an astonishing 27.63 million tonnes.
Kingdom’s Status as a Global Logistics Hub Reinforced
Official data released by the Saudi Ports Authority, also known as Mawani, has unveiled this remarkable growth, surpassing last year’s figures of 25.56 million tonnes for the same month. This achievement solidifies the Kingdom’s reputation as a pivotal global logistics hub, bridging three continents.
Advancing the Maritime Sector
Mawani highlighted the significance of this rise in advancing the Kingdom’s leadership in the maritime sector. It also aligns with the goals outlined in the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
Impressive Container Statistics
The data further revealed that exported containers experienced a notable 13.61 percent annual increase, soaring to 255,297 twenty-foot-equivalent units in May. Imported containers also saw a rise of 5.30 percent, totaling 260,065 TEUs.
Diverse Cargo Handling
The total volume of general cargo reached 851,501 tonnes, while solid bulk cargo surpassed 4,747,750 tonnes and liquid bulk cargo exceeded 15.44 million tonnes. Additionally, Saudi ports welcomed 1,014,417 cattle heads in May, showcasing a remarkable 76.56 percent increase from the previous year.
Challenges in Container Handling and Maritime Traffic
However, handled containers saw a decrease of 10.09 percent at 647,839 TEUs compared to last year, while transshipment containers plummeted by 46.77 percent to 132,477 TEUs. Maritime traffic also dipped by 7.68 percent to 986 ships in May.
Decline in Passenger and Car Statistics
In addition, there was a noticeable 35.31 percent decrease in passenger statistics, totaling 56,636, and a 19.45 percent fall in car numbers, amounting to 74,590.
Investing in Infrastructure Development for Growth
Mawani emphasized its commitment to enhancing competitiveness regionally and internationally through various infrastructure development projects in the Kingdom’s ports. These efforts have been recognized internationally, with Mawani receiving awards for “Distinguished Infrastructure” and “Best Contribution to Economic Infrastructure Development.”
Collaboration with Marseille for Trade Excellence
In a significant move, Mawani and its Marseille counterpart signed a memorandum of understanding during the Vision Golfe 2024 event in Paris. This agreement underscores France and Saudi Arabia’s dedication to excellence in trade and maritime transport.