Egypt Opens First Semi-Automated Container Terminal at Sokhna Port, Boosting Trade Connectivity under Vision 2030
Red Sea Container Terminals (RSCT) has officially inaugurated Egypt’s first semi-automated container terminal at Sokhna Port on the Gulf of Suez. The milestone project, backed by a 30-year concession agreement with the Egyptian government, reinforces Egypt’s position as a strategic hub for international trade and investment.
Strategic Gateway Linking Asia, Africa, and Europe
Developed by a consortium of Hutchison Ports, CMA Terminals (100% subsidiary of CMA CGM Group), and COSCO SHIPPING Ports, RSCT serves as a critical gateway connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe through the Suez Canal Economic Zone. Located just kilometers from the southern entrance of the Suez Canal, one of the world’s most important maritime corridors, the terminal is designed to enhance shipping efficiency and facilitate seamless cargo movement for Egyptian exporters and importers.
Operated by Hutchison Ports, RSCT can accommodate the largest container vessels afloat, providing unmatched access for global shipping lines and optimizing trade flows between East and West. Integrated with Egypt’s expanding transport network, including highway and railway connections to major industrial zones, RSCT significantly reduces transit times for imports, exports, and transshipments.
Grand Opening Highlights Egypt’s Maritime Ambitions
The opening ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Kamel El-Wazir, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone Walid Gamal Eldin, along with representatives from global shipping lines and industry stakeholders. Guests toured the terminal’s advanced facilities, witnessing first-hand how RSCT’s state-of-the-art cargo handling systems set new benchmarks for Egypt’s port infrastructure.
Officials highlighted the terminal’s strategic role in enhancing Sokhna Port’s competitiveness, supporting industrial and trade growth, creating skilled jobs, and advancing Egypt Vision 2030, aimed at establishing the country as a global logistics and maritime hub.
Investment and Global Partnerships
Mr. Clemence Cheng, Managing Director, Europe, Hutchison Ports, emphasized the historic significance of the RSCT launch, noting that the USD 1.8 billion investment demonstrates Egypt’s strategic importance in global trade. Ms. Christine Cabau, Executive Vice President Assets, CMA CGM, highlighted the terminal’s combination of world-class automated infrastructure with North-South rail connectivity, boosting productivity and competitiveness for Egyptian exporters. Mr. Zhu Tao, Chairman, COSCO SHIPPING Ports, added that RSCT strengthens trade links between Egypt, China, and the global market.
A New Era of Port Technology and Sustainability
RSCT introduces smart and green port operations in Egypt, located within the world’s deepest man-made port basin, recognized by Guinness World Records. Phase I includes a 1,200-metre berth, 18-metre water depth, and initial handling capacity of 1.7 million TEUs, with plans to expand to 3.5 million TEUs along 2.6 kilometres of quay.
The terminal features six remote-control ship-to-shore cranes and 18 automated rubber-tyred gantry cranes, the first of their kind in Egypt, integrated with a proprietary Terminal Operating System, nGen, for real-time container tracking. Auto-gate operations and data-driven processes improve efficiency, safety, and working conditions. Aligned with Hutchison Ports’ sustainability goals, RSCT uses fully electric cargo handling equipment, including e-trucks and e-reach stackers, reducing carbon emissions and promoting greener maritime operations.
RSCT’s development marks a significant advancement for Egypt’s trade diversification, international cooperation, and long-term economic growth, solidifying the country’s role as a key player in global shipping and logistics.
