For the fifth consecutive quarter, Saudi Arabia has achieved a score above 240 points on a United Nations (U.N.) index that measures maritime connectivity, indicating significant improvements in shipping services.
The country received a score of 248 points from the international body for the first three months of this year, maintaining the same level of performance observed since the corresponding period in 2023.
This recent evaluation on the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index, established by the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development, demonstrates a remarkable 30 percent increase since the launch of the Vision 2030 initiative in January 2016.
The Saudi Ports Authority, also known as Mawani, announced this achievement and emphasized that it underscores the consistent flow of cargo, ensuring the resilience of supply chains and logistic services.
Read more: Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Islamic Port to establish $46.6 million integrated logistics zone
#أخبار_موانئ | المملكة تعزز مكتسباتها الدولية بتسجيل 248 نقطة في مؤشّر اتصال شبكة الملاحة البحرية ضمن تقرير "الأونكتاد" خلال الربع الأول لعام 2024م. pic.twitter.com/6XnrgyaBDu
— مـوانـئ | MAWANI (@MawaniKSA) March 21, 2024
Mawani further highlighted its commitment to sustaining the progress made thus far by collaborating with major global shipping lines to introduce 31 new shipping services in 2023. As of the beginning of 2024, an additional seven shipping services have been established.
Nine integrated logistic zones and centers
Moreover, the authority revealed that it has successfully established and inaugurated nine integrated logistic zones and centers in partnership with prominent national and international companies at Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, and King Fahd Industrial Port in Yanbu. The total investments in these projects exceed SAR6 billion ($1.6 billion).
Mawani also stated that it has focused on developing port infrastructure, including the commencement of projects to develop and operate container terminals at its Dammam facility. These initiatives, under a build-operate-transfer model, involve an investment of SAR7 billion.
Enhancing operational capabilities
Additionally, the ports authority has invested SAR1 billion in enhancing the operational capabilities of the northern part of Jeddah Islamic Port, aligning with the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services. These endeavors aim to solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub and a crucial link connecting the three continents.
Improving operational efficiency
Furthermore, Mawani has introduced various initiatives to improve operational efficiency, such as automating port operations, utilizing modern equipment, and streamlining import and export procedures. These measures aim to stimulate national exports, support global maritime trade, reduce port operational costs, and attract regional and international shipping lines as well as mega vessels.
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