AD Ports Group, LDC partner to upgrade Karachi Port agricultural logistics

AD Ports Group, a UAE-based logistics company, announced on Friday that Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML), part of Noatum Ports, the international ports operating arm of AD Ports Group, and Louis Dreyfus Company Pakistan (Private) Limited, a subsidiary of leading global merchant and agricultural goods processor Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), has inked a long-term commercial agreement to develop and operate a modern clean bulk handling and storage facility for agricultural goods at Karachi Port.

Under the agreement, KGTML will invest in the design and construction of a highly efficient, food-grade clean bulk facility, including a handling and conveyor system along with associated infrastructure and utilities, to support the efficient handling and storage of dry agricultural bulk cargo, while LDC has committed to providing an inbound volume of agricultural commodities, according to a press statement.

“LDC will leverage the new infrastructure as part of its plans to grow its presence in Pakistan. The investment is in addition to the $75 million previously committed by AD Ports Group during phase one of the KGTML project,” it said.

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The company was of the view that the partnership brings together two companies within the portfolio of ADQ to strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural supply chain and port logistics ecosystem.

A Strategic Investment and Infrastructure Utilisation Agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi by Mohammed Al Tamimi, CEO of Noatum Ports, and Rubens Marques, Head of South and Southeast Asia for LDC.

“The new facility will enhance efficiency, reduce handling times and improve the resilience of Pakistan’s agricultural logistics network, in line with international food safety and operational standards,” it said.

Moreover, the agreement marks another significant milestone in advancing bilateral trade and economic development between the UAE and Pakistan.

“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural supply chain and port logistics ecosystem,” said Mohammed Al Tamimi, Chief Executive Officer of Noatum Ports.

“As a key gateway for regional trade, KGTML plays a vital role in enhancing connectivity and driving efficiency across Pakistan’s maritime sector. This development will significantly upgrade the country’s logistics infrastructure, creating new growth opportunities, and reinforcing Karachi Port’s position as a critical hub for international commerce.”

Rubens Marques, LDC’s Head of South and Southeast Asia, said: “This development reflects our long-term commitment to the country, where we have been operating for over 15 years, and our confidence in its growing role in global agricultural trade. The facility will be a key lever as we work to enhance our supply chain capabilities for the benefit of our business partners upstream and downstream in Pakistan, the region and beyond.”

In addition to KGTML, AD Ports Group is also developing, operating and managing the Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) container terminal at Karachi Port.