Global ports partnership advances innovation

The Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) have joined forces to transform global port management.

(l-r) Nils Kemme, MD at HPC; Omar Talal Hariri, president of MAWANI; Lennart Kinau, HPA board member

The memorandum of understanding, signed at the IAPH World Port Conference in Hamburg aims to drive innovation in port operations, development and workforce capacity building, by enhancing digitalisation and optimising infrastructure.

MAWANI brings expertise in large-scale port management, while HPA focuses on port strategy and digitalisation. HPC will contribute extensive knowledge in global project management and maritime innovation.

“As global trade evolves, ports must adapt with intelligent, data-driven systems,” said Lennart Kinau, HPA board member.

“This partnership strengthens our position at the forefront of digital transformation, allowing us both to enhance efficiency and governance in port management as well as to achieve new levels of sustainability along critical trade routes like the East-West corridor.”

Recognising the potential for collaboration, the partners will promote best practices through regular knowledge exchanges. Their efforts will focus on developing approaches to effective port management and technological advancements in the maritime sector.

MAWANI aims to reinforce its leadership in logistics, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s ports, vital for international trade, especially between Asia and Europe. The partnership will prioritise strategies for a resilient port network, embracing technological innovations like AI and automated logistics.

“This MOU focuses on the next generation of port solutions – automated systems and smart digital platforms that redefine how ports operate and minimise environmental impact,” said Nils Kemme, chief executive of HPC.