In a significant move for Egypt’s logistics and supply chain sector, the CMA CGM Group has signed a partnership agreement with October Dry Port (ODP). This collaboration, which follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Egypt, aims to bolster the country’s logistics infrastructure and supply chain capabilities. The agreement was signed in the presence of H.E. Kamel El Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership.
The partnership involves CMA CGM acquiring a 35% shareholding in ODP and entering into a management agreement. This move positions CMA CGM as an active operational partner in the development and activities of ODP’s logistics and rail platform. By leveraging its expertise in managing inland terminals, CMA CGM aims to provide reliable and cost-efficient services to all customers. The completion of this acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice-President Assets and Operations of the CMA CGM Group, and Eng. Ahmed Elsewedy, President & CEO of Elsewedy Electric. The collaboration is set to enhance port operations, optimize cargo movement, and offer seamless logistics services to customers in Egypt’s expanding industrial zones.
October Dry Port, Egypt’s first dry port and the first public-private partnership (PPP) project in the Egyptian transport sector under the EBRD Green Cities program, was developed, built, and operated by Elsewedy Electric in partnership with the General Authority for Land and Dry Ports (GALDP). Funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), ODP commenced operations in November 2023. The dry port has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, winning the “Best Sustainable Infrastructure Project” award for its environmentally conscious design and energy-efficient operations.
Located in the New Industrial Area in 6th of October City, ODP is directly connected to all of Egypt’s seaports. It serves as a critical logistics hub, facilitating faster cargo clearance, reducing seaport congestion, and supporting Egypt’s growing industrial and export ecosystem.
Through this partnership, CMA CGM will utilize ODP’s facilities to serve its expanding customer base across Greater Cairo and Upper Egypt. The group will provide integrated inland transport, customs clearance, and advanced logistics services. Already operating the Tahya Misr container terminal at the Port of Alexandria and the new terminal of Sokhna, which will open early next year, CMA CGM further strengthens its strategic positioning in Egypt, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea. The group will offer regular roundtrip rail services between the major seaports of Alexandria and Ain Sokhna to the Great Cairo area, enhancing the competitiveness of intermodal solutions for Egyptian customers.
