APM Terminals has taken a significant step toward expanding its presence in Bahrain by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications. This agreement aims to more than double the terminal’s throughput by 2030, strengthen trade connections with Saudi Arabia, and foster investments aligned with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.
The collaboration underscores Bahrain’s strategic importance as a regional hub for trade and logistics. With its direct links to Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Gulf, the kingdom is positioning itself to play a central role in the region’s supply chain. His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, emphasized the broader economic implications of the agreement.
“This signing is a significant step in further strengthening Bahrain’s economy in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030,” he said. “By utilizing Bahrain’s strategic location—particularly its direct links to Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Gulf states—Bahrain is well positioned as a major regional center for trade distribution. The Ministry will provide its full support to APM Terminals in achieving its objectives and showcasing the potential that Bahrain has to offer.”
Jon Goldner, Chief Executive Officer for Asia and the Middle East at APM Terminals, highlighted the broader vision behind the partnership. “This event marks an important next step for our collaboration and how we can leverage our unique capabilities from both APM Terminals and A. P. Moller – Maersk. As an example of our plans under the LOI, to support economic growth and sustainability, and building on its 100-year history in the Kingdom, A. P. Moller – Maersk recently signed an MOU to create a responsible ship recycling ecosystem. The recycled steel will then be re-exported via the port, creating additional value to the economy.”
A cornerstone of the collaboration involves sustainable development and operational efficiency. According to Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director of APM Terminals Bahrain, the company is fully committed to achieving net-zero operations by 2040. One key initiative driving this ambition is an 11.5-megawatt solar power project, which will make Khalifa Bin Salman Port the first port in the region to meet 100% of its energy needs through renewable sources.
Beyond infrastructure and sustainability, APM Terminals is also focused on developing local talent. The company currently supports over 500 direct jobs in Bahrain and provides training aligned with international standards. Through partnerships with local academic institutions, APM Terminals is investing in future-proof employment opportunities, fostering the next generation of logistics professionals.
These combined efforts aim to reinforce Bahrain’s position as a logistics powerhouse while advancing economic growth and environmental sustainability. As trade volumes rise and new growth sectors emerge, the deepening collaboration between Bahrain and APM Terminals could redefine the regional logistics landscape for years to come.
.
