Plans to develop major new US container terminal

Under the proposed agreement, Plaquemines Port will lease the land to APM Terminals under a 30-year agreement with extension options.

“In time, this greenfield site has all the potential to evolve into one of the big ship gateways into the US,” said Wim Lagaay, APM Terminals’ senior investment advisor to the CEO.

“This venture allows us to build from the ground up, integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to create a modern logistics hub that lifts standards of safety, efficiency and productivity. Our collaboration with the Plaquemines Port and local stakeholders is key to developing a facility that sets new industry standards and serves as a boon to the economic vitality of the region.”

Attracting new business

APM Terminals estimates the initial investment in terminal infrastructure will be approximately US$500 million, which will be privately funded.

The initial phase will encompass 200 acres, on-dock rail, and a berth capable of handling the largest ships now traversing the expanded Panama Canal (14,000 teu).

There will be options to expand the site up to 900 acres for terminal expansion and complementary logistics activities.

Plaquemines new terminal holds significant potential to enable new business west of the Mississippi River, allowing for new markets of import and export cargos while continuing to grow the various existing Louisiana markets.

When completed, it will be the port closest to the mouth of the river (three hours longer round trip to nearest proposed terminal); with the widest ship turning radius.

Brian Champagne, port commission chairman, Plaquemines Port, said: “This development agreement is a testament to the confidence that APM Terminals has in Plaquemines’ key advantages. It will greatly increase global commerce flowing through Louisiana.”

APM Terminals currently operates four container terminals in the U.S and 62 globally.