Study commissioned to evaluate Oman port expansion plan

A study will be conducted into plans to add a new container terminal to Sohar Port in Oman which is capable of receiving mega-vessels.

In line with implementing the sultanate’s ambitions to increase revenue from the logistic sector as part of Oman Vision 2040, Sohar Port and Freezone has signed a development agreement with Hutchison Ports Sohar.

The agreement will see a joint study conducted for the expansion of Sohar Port alongside the addition of a new container terminal.

The study will commence this year and will assess the social, environmental, logistical, in-country value and economic impact of any future expansion.

Moreover, it will provide a clear roadmap for future expansion to meet the needs of the growing local and regional economy, a statement said.

It added that apart from enhancing the competitiveness of Sohar Port, especially in containers and cargo handling, it will further contribute towards the generation of more local job opportunities.

Sohar Port said it is currently witnessing a growing occupancy rate and efforts should be enhanced to increase its capacity, to enable it to keep pace with future development.

Sohar Port and Freezone is a deep-sea port and adjacent free zone with current investments exceeding $26 billion.

The port handles over one million tonnes of sea cargo each week and around 3,500 ships a year.
Source: Arabian Business