International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) subsidiary, Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) has celebrated the handle of its three millionth TEU.
BGT, operating at the Port of Umm Qasr in Iraq since 2014, is now distinguished as the only container terminal in the port to have handled 3 million TEU.
The milestone was achieved seven years after the terminal’s establishment and during the handling of Evergreen’s 5,652TEU container ship, Ever Uranus, which was built in 1999.
“Three million TEU 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 maximise our efficiency,” noted BGT Chief Executive Officer, Romeo Salvador.
“Through efficient operations, digitalisation, and focus on safety, BGT reaffirms its commitment to supporting the country’s economy and providing world-class service to our growing customer base,” he added.
Since Iraq’s premier maritime gateway started operations, ICTSI has invested more than US$250 million to modernise the multipurpose terminal, according to a statement.
In particular, the investments include the construction of three new berths at BGT East, rehabilitation and expansion of the three existing berths and the terminal yard and acquisition of new equipment such as three post-Panamax quay cranes.
BGT is the first and currently the only terminal in Iraq capable of handling 14,000TEU container vessels, which helps the Port of Umm Qasr attract new services, according to ICTSI’s announcement.
