Asyad Ports and Freezones, a member of the Asyad Group, has officially announced the launch of regular shipping services by the French shipping giant CMA CGM to the Asyad Container Terminal in Duqm. The inaugural vessel under this new service has arrived at the port, marking the commencement of direct maritime operations.
The new service strengthens Duqm’s position as a strategic logistics gateway on Oman’s coast along the Indian Ocean, enhancing the country’s integration within global trade networks. The inclusion of the Port of Duqm in CMA CGM’s worldwide network represents a significant expansion of the company’s operations across the Middle East and Africa and underscores Oman’s growing status as a regional logistics hub.
Omar bin Mahmoud Al Mahrizi, CEO of Asyad Ports and Freezones, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that CMA CGM’s choice of Duqm reflects confidence in the terminal’s operational efficiency and service quality. He highlighted that the new service will raise Duqm’s profile on the international port map, provide exporters and importers with broader opportunities, and support the growth of key economic sectors.
From CMA CGM’s perspective, Thiashen Govender, Managing Director in Oman, noted that the service represents a major advancement in providing tailored logistics solutions, particularly for the fisheries sector. The partnership with Ocean Fish Company, alongside operations of the Ocean Fresh vessel, demonstrates the shipping line’s commitment to linking emerging markets with reliable and high-standard transport services.
Sulaiman bin Shatait Al Ghanammi, CEO of Ocean Fish Company, highlighted the advantages of Duqm as a logistics center for fisheries. Its proximity to major fishing grounds reduces port dwell time during loading and unloading, allowing for faster delivery and more frequent trips. This efficiency is further enhanced by Duqm being a key stop in CMA CGM’s global network.
The Asyad Container Terminal at Duqm is equipped with world-class machinery, including gantry cranes, rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, container trucks, and specialized infrastructure for refrigerated containers. These capabilities support the export of dry and chilled cargo efficiently, providing fast and reliable access to international markets. The new service also expands import and export options and strengthens coverage for industrial and commercial customers across the region.
This development solidifies the Port of Duqm’s role as a strategic gateway connecting Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and the Middle East, further reinforcing Oman’s ambitions to become a global logistics and trade hub.