The Suez Canal Container Terminal in East Port Said has opened a significant expansion that increases its annual capacity by 2.2 million TEUs, making the total capacity 7 million TEUs.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was present at the inauguration ceremony for the $500 million project. The upgrade includes 955 meters of new quay, 510,000 square meters of yard space, 12 quay cranes, 30 electric rubber-tired gantry cranes, and over 90 trucks.

This expansion is a big investment in the infrastructure of one of the world’s key maritime routes. SCCT is one of eight hub terminals chosen by APM Terminals to support the East-West shipping network run by A.P. Moller – Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd.

“We are pleased to celebrate our commitment to Egypt, our partnerships, and the hardworking people who excel every day at this terminal,” said Lars Mikael Jensen, Head of Hubs and Ocean Collaboration at APM Terminals. “SCCT operates at a world-class level and is a vital part of our global network.”

The project emphasizes sustainability through the use of electric RTGs and investments in battery-electric container handling equipment, renewable energy, and improved energy efficiency. APM Terminals aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the expansion will create over 1,000 new jobs and foster long-term economic growth in the area.

Keld Mosgaard Christensen, Managing Director of SCCT, expressed gratitude for the support from the Egyptian government: “We thank His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the distinguished ministers and partners whose support has made this project possible. This expansion will further enhance trade opportunities for Egypt and the region.”

The terminal has received accolades from the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, ranking Port Said and SCCT as the third most efficient container port in the world and the top one in the region for 2024.

To improve operations and ensure reliable scheduling, the terminal has implemented advanced digital planning tools, including digital twins.