AD Ports Group, a leading global enabler of trade, industry, and logistics solutions, has announced the award of three major contracts for the Noatum Ports Pointe-Noire Terminal in the Republic of the Congo.

The contracts cover the design and construction of marine and landside infrastructure, and the sourcing of crane equipment.

The container terminal is being developed under AD Ports Group’s majority-owned joint venture with the CMA CGM Group, through its subsidiary CMA Terminals, following an agreement signed between the two parties in February 2025.

The contract awards, with a combined value of approximately AED735 million ($200 million), mark a milestone in the development of the new container terminal, which is being delivered under AD Ports Group’s 30-year concession agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Congo, extendable by a further 20 years.

The awards include two contracts for marine works and topside works valued at approximately AED551 million ($150 million) to MAR Contracting Sarlu and MBTP SA JV, in addition to a AED184 million ($50 million) contract for three ship-to-shore (STS) cranes and nine rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes awarded to Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co Ltd (ZPMC).

The container terminal will initially include a quay wall of approximately 420 metres in length and 16 metres in depth, capable of accommodating Patagonia-class vessels, alongside a 100,000 sqm logistics area. Under its concession agreement with the Congolese government, the Group has the right to develop additional multipurpose cargo capabilities, to be evaluated in line with evolving business demand.

Mohamed Eidha AlMenhali, Regional CEO - AD Ports Group, said: “These contract awards mark a significant step towards delivering a modern and future-ready container terminal at the Port of Pointe-Noire, in partnership with CMA Terminals. This development reflects AD Ports Group’s long-term commitment to investing in high-growth markets and developing integrated maritime and logistics infrastructure that strengthens regional trade connectivity. 

"This strategic investment will not only enhance port capacity, but also to create lasting value for Congolese communities through job creation, skills development, and stronger integration into global trade. In addition, this development will support economic diversification, attract leading global shipping lines, and deliver sustainable value for the Republic of the Congo and the wider region, in line with the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE.”

The foundational contracts advance the development of the new container terminal at the Port of Pointe-Noire, enhancing its capacity to handle larger vessels and higher annual throughput, which further reinforces its role as a regional trade gateway serving Central and West Africa. Construction is expected to be completed in approximately two years, said a statement.

Based on comparable port developments, Noatum Ports’ Pointe-Noire Terminal is estimated to create up to 9,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly, from the initial phase of construction and through the start of operations. - TradeArabia News Service