Damietta, Egypt – Commercial operations commenced today, , at the newly constructed Damietta Alliance Container Terminals (DACT), marking a significant expansion of Egypt’s port infrastructure and its role in global trade. The launch will be officially inaugurated tomorrow, , with the arrival of the Hapag-Lloyd vessel, the Essen Express
, a container ship with a capacity of 13,117 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units).
The DACT facility represents a substantial investment in Egypt’s logistical capabilities, designed primarily to handle transshipment cargo. Upon full completion, the terminal is projected to have a total capacity of 3.3 million TEU annually. Initial forecasts suggest a cargo mix of approximately 80 percent transshipment and 20 percent import/export, serving not only Egypt, including the Damietta region, but also acting as a key hub for trade flows in the wider Mediterranean and beyond.
The development of DACT is particularly noteworthy given its strategic location on the Egyptian coast. Damietta’s position offers access to major shipping routes connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. This makes it an attractive location for shipping lines seeking to optimize their networks and reduce transit times. The terminal’s focus on transshipment – the process of transferring goods between vessels – positions it to capitalize on the increasing volume of cargo moving between continents.
Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s leading container shipping lines, is a key partner in the DACT project. The company’s decision to choose the new terminal for the inaugural call of the Essen Express
underscores its confidence in the facility’s potential. The choice of a vessel of this size – exceeding 13,000 TEU – also signals DACT’s readiness to accommodate some of the largest container ships currently in operation.
Egypt has been actively pursuing infrastructure development projects in recent years, with a particular emphasis on enhancing its ports and logistical networks. These efforts are aimed at attracting foreign investment, boosting trade, and solidifying Egypt’s position as a regional trade hub. The Suez Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, remains a critical component of global trade, and the development of complementary port infrastructure like DACT is seen as essential to maximizing its economic benefits.
The launch of DACT comes at a time of increasing scrutiny on global supply chains. Disruptions caused by geopolitical events, the COVID-19 pandemic, and logistical bottlenecks have highlighted the importance of resilient and efficient port infrastructure. Terminals like DACT, with their large capacity and focus on transshipment, are expected to play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges and ensuring the smooth flow of goods.
While the primary function of DACT is transshipment, the 20 percent allocation for import/export cargo will also contribute to Egypt’s domestic trade. This will facilitate the movement of goods to and from Egyptian businesses, supporting economic growth and creating employment opportunities. The terminal’s operations are expected to generate revenue for the Egyptian government through port fees and taxes, further contributing to the country’s economic development.
The development of DACT is not without its complexities. Successfully integrating the new terminal into existing port networks and ensuring seamless coordination with other stakeholders – including shipping lines, customs authorities, and logistics providers – will be crucial. Maintaining high standards of security and safety will be paramount to protecting cargo and ensuring the smooth operation of the facility.
Looking ahead, the success of DACT will depend on its ability to attract a consistent flow of cargo and establish itself as a reliable and efficient transshipment hub. Continued investment in infrastructure, technology, and skilled personnel will be essential to maintaining its competitive edge. The terminal’s long-term impact on Egypt’s economy and its role in global trade will be closely watched by industry observers and policymakers alike.
The inauguration of DACT represents a significant step forward for Egypt’s maritime sector and its ambitions to become a leading regional logistics hub. The arrival of the Essen Express
tomorrow marks not just the beginning of operations at a new terminal, but also a new chapter in Egypt’s economic development and its integration into the global trading system.
