France’s CMA CGM announced on 29 June, during the official visit to France by the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, that it had signed a framework agreement with the state-backed Omani logistics group Asyad to develop, manage and operate a new $400 million-multi-purpose logistics terminal in Sohar.No timeline for completion has been disclosed.
“This partnership reflects Asyad Group’s vision of building strategic collaborations with major global companies to enhance the commercial attractiveness of Omani ports and maximise the economic value of their assets,” said Eng. Abdulrahman Al Hatmi, Asyad Group’s Group Chief Executive Officer.
“This cooperation will open new horizons for attracting trade flows and quality investments to ports, and free and economic zones, and strengthening Oman’s position in global supply chains, in support of the Sultanate’s objectives to establish its position as a pivotal centre for trade and logistics services at the international level,” he added.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, CMA CGM Group, stated: “This partnership with Asyad Group marks an important step in the development of our logistics and port activities in the Gulf. By developing a new logistics terminal at Sohar, we will strengthen regional connectivity while securing reliable inland access to key trade corridors,” remarked Rodolphe Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, CMA CGM Group.
“It will ensure greater resilience and efficiency for our customers’ supply chains. It also reflects our confidence in Oman’s long-term vision and our commitment to strengthening its position as a strategic gateway connecting the Gulf to global markets,” added Saadé.
The new terminal will deliver advanced integrated logistics services and supply chain solutions, with the aim of reinforcing regional and international trade corridors, increasing cargo handling volumes and deepening Omani ports’ connectivity to global shipping networks, while positioning Sohar into a stronger gateway for regional and international cargo flows.
Sohar Port and Freezone is a joint venture between Asyad and the Port of Rotterdam. The port handles more than 3,000 vessel calls a year and about 75 million tonnes of cargo, with container terminal capacity of 2.46 million teu.