Seatrade Maritime: AD Ports to explore development of DRC multipurpose terminal

AD Ports Group announced it has signed a Heads of Terms with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Opening Up to explore the development and operation of a multipurpose terminal at Matadi Port.

Situated on the Congo River on the opposite bank from Angola, Matadi Port is DRC’s main port, marking the furthest oceangoing vessels can travel up the Congo River.

The preliminary agreement sets a framework for the parties to explore the operation and development of the multipurpose terminal, as well as enhance its operational efficiency and capacity. The parties will also discuss facilitation of streamlined import and export flows, and supporting DRC’s trade volumes.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and group CEO of AD Ports Group, said: “The Democratic Republic of Congo is a strategic nation in Africa, bordered by nine countries and serving as a natural hub for regional trade and connectivity. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the country’s access to global markets and supporting long‑term economic development initiatives in Africa.”

The Heads of Terms were signed at the Presidential Court in Abu Dhabi by H. E. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, deputy prime minister and minister of transport and communications – DRC; and Al Shamisi.

The agreement comes at a time of expansion for AD Ports, with recent deals including construction of a bulk facility at Karachi, Pakistan, an investment in Egyptian container terminal operator Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling Company (ALCN), buying CMA CGM’s 20% stake in Syria’s Latakia International Container Terminal (LICT), and establishment of a new office in China.

AD Ports Group said it continues to expand its presence across Africa. The company has existing ports, logistics, and maritime investments in Egypt, Tanzania, Angola, and the Republic of the Congo.