Amman, Sept. 9 (Petra) — Plans to expand handling capacity at Aqaba
Port are under discussion as rising trade flows, particularly transit
cargo bound for Iraq, increase pressure on container yards and port
operations.

Transport and Labor Minister Nidal Qatamin discussed the proposed
measures during a virtual meeting with representatives of several
shipping companies and the Aqaba Container Terminal, focusing on ways
to increase operational efficiency and accommodate growing cargo
volumes.

The discussions centered on expanding container yard capacity,
accelerating handling operations and reducing waiting times to ensure
a smoother flow of goods through the Kingdom’s main seaport.

Qatamin said improving port efficiency and facilitating cargo
movement would enhance the Kingdom’s competitiveness as a regional
transport and logistics hub, while supporting the national economy
and strengthening Aqaba’s role in serving neighboring markets.

He called for closer coordination among the relevant stakeholders to
address operational and logistics challenges and speed up procedures.

Participants also discussed short-term solutions for handling empty
containers and transit cargo, including allocating additional yards
and storage areas to ease pressure on existing facilities and allow
the port to accommodate higher container volumes.

Ministry of Transport Secretary-General Fares Abu Dayyeh attended the
meeting.

//Petra// RZ