International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said on Monday its Iraqi subsidiary reached an operational milestone recently with its new record of handling its three million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU).
This feat makes Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) the only container terminal at the Port of Umm Qasr to handle 3 million TEUs. BGT started its commercial operations in 2014.
“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,” Romeo Salvador, BGT CEO, said.
Since 2014, ICTSI has invested over $250 million to upgrade the terminal, including the construction of three new berths, the rehab of the three existing berths and terminal yard, and the acquisition of new equipment.
BGT is the first and currently the only terminal in Iraq capable of efficiently handling 14,000-TEU capacity boxships. According to Salvador, this unique and exclusive advantage continues to help the Port of Umm Qasr attract new services, especially ones that are operated by larger vessels.