Dubai-based global marine terminal operator DP World has entered into an advisory agreement with the Azerbaijan Ministry of Economy and the Port of Baku to develop a framework for the Alyat Free Trade Zone in Azerbaijan.

The future business hub is planned to become part of a network of economic zones in the country to develop the economy and to form part of the Eurasian trade corridor, said a statement from DP World.

DP World’s international experience and expertise in multi-modal transport links, logistics and the supply chain across its network is being sought by partners around the world, it said.

The company already provides advisory services for the development of the Khorgos Special Economic Zone and Inland Container Depot in Kazakhstan with a similar arrangement under a separate contract for the Port of Aktau, the country’s main cargo and bulk terminal on the Caspian Sea, it added.

The Alyat Free Trade Zone will occupy 20 sq km once fully developed, with DP World advising on its business plan, regulations governing special economic zones and a master plan for phase one of the project, which spans 4 sq km, it stated.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO, DP World, said: “Our history of marine and inland terminal development, industrial zone and logistics coupled with experience of multi-modal transport connectivity honed through our global network is something which sets us apart as a business and where we can add value to our partners and governments.”

“Our flagship Jebel Ali Freezone (Jafza) in Dubai is a prime example together with our logistics facility at Caucedo in the Dominican Republic and the brand new logistics park at our London Gateway terminal, the largest in Europe. They demonstrate our ability to connect ports and industrial zones to encourage trade,” he said.

“I believe this experience will help the Port of Baku and Alyat Free Trade Zone to become an important logistic and transport hub between China and Europe. We are delighted to be involved as the principal advisor in this major project,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service