The Port of Salalah has once again showcased its exceptional performance by maintaining its position as the second most efficient container port globally, despite disruptions in the region affecting port operations. The 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) revealed this achievement on June 4, 2024, also highlighting Salalah Port's top ranking in the West Central and South Asia region.
The CPPI, a collaboration between the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, analyzed data from 405 ports worldwide, the most extensive dataset to date. This data included over 182,000 vessel calls, 238.2 million moves, and around 381 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) for the entire year of 2023.
Port efficiency was evaluated based on vessel turnaround time, referred to as 'Total Port Hours.' This metric measures the duration from a ship's arrival at the port limits, pilot station, or anchorage zone until its departure after completing cargo operations. The Port of Salalah, with 1,146 vessel calls, achieved an index score of 164.72, securing the second position globally behind Yangshan in China, which had 3,509 vessel calls and a score of 177.9.
Amidst the disruptions in the region that have caused shifts in global rankings, China's Yangshan Port has managed to retain its first-place position. Meanwhile, the Port of Salalah has secured its second-place ranking, thanks to its strategic location, expanding connectivity, and world-class operations. It is worth noting that three out of the top five ports, including Salalah, are operated by APM Terminals.
The Port of Salalah plays a crucial role as a transshipment hub, offering exceptional connectivity for importers and exporters to engage in global trade. This not only provides its customers with a significant competitive edge but also contributes to the growth of the local economy in Dhofar. The port's high efficiency boosts business confidence and attracts investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI).
To maintain its position in the rankings, the Port of Salalah is currently undertaking a $300 million container terminal upgrade and expansion project. As part of this project, the port will soon receive the final four out of ten new ZPMC ship-to-shore cranes. The first batch of cranes, with a 75 m/26 container outreach, arrived at the beginning of 2024 and is currently undergoing commissioning and testing before commencing operations.
The success of the Port of Salalah can be attributed to the dedication and continuous improvement mindset of its team, as well as the support from customers and efficient service from various authorities such as the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technology, ROP Customs, and ASYAD.
Keld Christensen, CEO of Port of Salalah, stated, "Maintaining this title for the third consecutive year demonstrates our unwavering commitment to continuous performance enhancement, even in challenging circumstances. This accomplishment showcases the remarkable perseverance of our staff, highlighting our stability and dedication to providing top-notch service to our customers. I commend our hardworking employees for this significant achievement and express gratitude to all stakeholders who have backed us."
Scott Selman, COO of Port of Salalah, stated, "I am delighted to witness the Port of Salalah maintaining our standing amidst the obstacles faced by the global container trade industry, which have had adverse effects on vessel schedules. The year 2023 has presented operational difficulties, mainly due to the ongoing construction of the Container Terminal upgrade. This accomplishment highlights the dedication of our team, as we persist in enhancing our workforce, technology, and procedures to provide exceptional outcomes for our clients in this fiercely competitive environment."
