Alexandria Port advances dry bulk terminal project with Chinese partner
Alexandria Port Authority and Xiamen C&D have signed a memorandum of understanding for a new dry bulk terminal at El Mex Port, with plans for expanded cargo handling and inland transport connections.
Alexandria Port Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Xiamen C&D to advance the development of a new industrial dry bulk terminal at El Mex Port in Egypt.
The proposed facility forms part of the Greater Alexandria Port development programme and the wider Sokhna–Alexandria logistics corridor. According to Egypt’s Maritime Transport and Logistics Sector, it will be the first of four terminals planned for El Mex.
The agreement was signed by Alexandria Port Authority Chairman Ehab Salah and Xiamen C&D Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Liu Rongdian, in the presence of Egyptian Transport Minister Kamel El-Wazir and other senior officials.
New terminal to expand dry bulk handling capacity
The proposed terminal layout includes two main berths designed to accommodate large cargo vessels. According to the Egyptian transport minister, the completed development is expected to provide capacity for three large vessels simultaneously.
The plans also include expandable storage yards, silos and cargo-handling infrastructure intended to support the movement of industrial dry bulk commodities.
A dedicated logistics centre is planned to facilitate truck movements, while improved connections to Egypt’s national railway network would strengthen links between maritime operations and inland transport.
These facilities are intended to improve cargo distribution to industrial zones, manufacturing centres and consumer markets.
The Egyptian government has identified cement, steel and other heavy industries among the sectors expected to benefit from improved access to maritime and inland logistics infrastructure.
Development forms part of wider port investment programme
The proposed terminal is part of Egypt’s broader efforts to expand port infrastructure and strengthen the integration of maritime, road and rail transport.
The project plans include an environmental management system intended to meet international standards, alongside measures to support cargo handling and storage operations.
Egyptian officials have also highlighted the potential for employment during construction and subsequent terminal operations, although no independently verified employment figures have been provided.
For Xiamen C&D, the agreement could provide a basis for further cooperation with Egyptian partners in port development and supply chain activities.
The company has also expressed interest in potential collaboration involving additional terminals and commercial vessel construction.
The agreement represents an initial framework for advancing the proposed development. Neither a final construction contract nor a confirmed investment value, terminal throughput capacity or completion timetable has been announced in the information provided.
