Oman’s ports achieved growth in several commercial operations and volumes of direct import during the first half (H1) of 2021, handling 2.5 million containers (TEUs) as well as 28.8 million tonnes of general cargo, local media reported.

The ports recorded a rise of 18 per cent over its performance in H1, while liquid commodity handling grew by 12 per cent to 9.9 million, compared to the corresponding period last year, reported Oman News Agency (ONA).

Compared to the corresponding period in 2020, imported livestock witnessed a notice spike of 65 per cent during the first six months this year (1.9 million heads). The import of vehicles and equipment dropped by 8 per cent (55,500 vehicles and equipment imported or re-exported) due to the decline in global economy and its impact on local and regional markets.

More than 4,400 vessels visited the Sultanate’s ports from January to June 2021.

Mohammed Al Mashani, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Port of Salalah said that the sizeable capacity of Salalah Port and its modern facilities cement its position as a maritime gateway and transshipment hub. The Port plays a crucial role in maintaining the flows of vital medical and food supplies; critical agricultural products; energy streams; and other goods and services essential to enhance commercial activities.

Accordingly, Port of Salalah was ranked sixth out of 351 ports worldwide in operational efficiency when receiving and handling container ships based on the Container Ports Performance Index in 2020.

Batti Mohammed Al Shibli, Harbour Manager, at Sohar port, said that the port is pressing ahead with its commitment to the local and international business community. “Sohar Port keeps upgrading its logistic operations with the objective of becoming a global logistics hub connected with Asian, European and African markets. It is already assuming a pivotal role in the global supply chain and it helps in securing the flow of commodities, facilitating the transport and handling of cargo and maintaining the continuity of operations round the clock,” Al Shibli said.

Hashim Tahir Al Ibrahim, Business Support Director at Port of Duqm Company, said that operations at the Port of Duqm are directly associated with and complement all economic and industrial operations in Duqm and the rest of the Sultanate.