Sohar Port and Freezone recorded an increase in its production capacity by 21% in the first quarter of 2021compared to the same period in the previous year, and dry bulk volume grew by 25% to exceed 9 million tons.

Breakbulk handling saw a rise by 7% to stand at 426,783 tons, and liquid bulk reached 4 million tons, comprising an increase of 7%. The number of handled containers went up by 1.8% to 197,000, reported Oman News Agency (ONA).

In addition, the port also recorded a surge of 200% Ship-to-Ship (STS) cargo given its strategic location and its reputation for delivering unmatched quality of service with quick turnaround times with its ever growing STS Customer base.

Mark Geilenkirchen, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar Port said that the year-on-year throughput growth at Sohar Port and Freezone has transformed the Sultanate’s capacity for worldwide trade. The results of the first quarter of 2021 show that there is very strong demand for raw materials for industry and consumer goods, fuelled by the recovery of economies around the world, he added.

He explained that the robust business continuity strategy and advantageous position at the crossroads of global trade routes has helped Sohar Port and Freezone to manage increased levels of cargo traffic and ensure a seamless and continuous flow of operations to support the national economy.

Omar Mahmood al-Mahrizi, CEO of Sohar Freezone, Deputy CEO of Sohar Port, said that Sohar is positioned as a logistics gateway and is integral to bringing in the requisite goods to clients within the freezone and industries in the region which rely on a steady flow of materials.

Further expansion of the port will increase Oman’s role as an international trade hub, attracting more leading global partners and establishing itself as the ideal location for business partners from outside the Gulf, he added.

Al Mahrizi pointed out that those results would not have been realized if it was not for the unwavering dedication of the Sohar Port and Freezone staff, looking forward for additional growth with their partners in the Free Zone.