Abu Dhabi’s AD Ports Group has sealed a deal with Erkport to launch a joint venture for global Ro-Ro and vehicle logistics transportation.
Specifically, Noatum Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, and Turkish-based company Erkport have formed a joint venture (JV) to launch a Ro-Ro liner business with integrated networks, reads the AD Ports Group statement.
Under the agreement, Noatum Maritime, a provider of diversified maritime services in the Middle East region, will own a 60% stake in the JV, with Erkport owning the remaining 40%.
The new joint venture, operating under the brand United Global Ro-Ro, strategically positioned to connect key ports in the automotive industry, will provide an integrated product for global automobile movement, along with high and heavy transportation.
It will also develop and integrate regional feeder networks catering to diverse markets, as well as enhance the accessibility and reach of the Ro-Ro liner services across Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, South Africa, the Arabian Gulf, and Asia, connecting regional and international hubs, according to AD Ports Group statement.
AD Ports Group stated that the partnership aims to combine both companies’ extensive fleet and logistical infrastructure, and operational expertise, to create a business optimised for Ro-Ro feeder shipping operations.
Noatum Maritime and Erkport will jointly deploy container Ro-Ro (ConRo), pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), and Ro-Ro vessels on the commencement of operations.
In total, the joint venture will start with 11 vessels deployed on five services.
“This venture is set to further streamline operations through integrated regional feeder networks, reduce transit times, and enhance cargo delivery efficiency for our customers,” said CEO of maritime and shipping cluster, AD Ports Group, captain Ammar Al Shaiba.
