P&O Maritime Logistics builds two new vessels to continue supporting critical Papua New Guinean Infrastructure

23 March 2020

  • P&O Maritime Logistics was awarded contracts by Ok Tedi Mining to build two new vessels to operate on the Fly River
  • The 5,400 DWT Bulk and Container carriers are designed to meet the unique environmental requirements and ensure that the communities on the river are not impacted by the ships’ operations
  • P&O Maritime Logistics has invested heavily supporting the growth of the PNG economy and local communities through various programs over 30 years

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 23 March 2020: P&O Maritime Logistics (“P&OML”), a Dubai-based marine solutions and logistics company, has recently secured a contract to build two vessels to support Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s (OTML) growing export requirements. The vessels, designed by Wartsila Ship Design, will be built at Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding Limited in China, and once completed, will operate in Papua New Guinea (PNG) principally between Kiunga in the Western Province and Port Moresby.

P&OML currently operates 10 vessels in PNG, nine of which are operated in support of OTML’s operations and the OK Tedi Development Foundation. Of its nine vessels, four are used to ship copper concentrate from Kiunga in the Western Province via the Fly River to Port Moresby for export. The fit-out and design of the existing vessels, as well as the newbuilds, have been optimised to operate on the Fly River. The vessels will maximise cargo lift, whilst also meeting the unique environmental requirements and ensuring that the communities on the river are not impacted by the ships’ operations.

Commenting on the contract, Robert Desai, Chief Commercial Officer said:

“P&O Maritime Logistics has been operating in PNG for over 30 years. During this time, we have consistently invested in growth – towards our operations and supporting our client’s important work for the PNG economy, as well as towards the communities in which we operate.

We appreciate OTML’s continued trust in our capabilities and look forward to repaying that confidence by consistent world-class service. This contract reflects our robust safety and operational track-record, and the value and quality of our operations in PNG. We look forward to contributing to future projects in PNG and continuing to invest in the growth of the local economy.”

In 2019 P&OML took part in the sustainability awareness campaign, conducted in partnership with the Ok Tedi Development Foundation’s (OTDF) education division, which subsequently led to the launch of the Maritime Cadet Scholarship program. Additionally, P7OML’s localisation initiatives have been a success, with 95% of onshore and offshore staff being Papua New Guinean. The addition of the new ships is expected to lead to an increase in staff of about 35.

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About P&O Maritime Logistics:

P&O Maritime Logistics is a leading provider of marine solutions with a focus on offshore energy, port services and logistics. The company owns and operates approximately 400 vessels and provides a wide portfolio of value-added marine services and the ability to integrate these offerings for its customers – always with safety and the environment at the forefront.

Headquartered in Dubai, the company has operations globally across all seven continents.

In July 2019, Topaz Energy and Marine was acquired by DP World, merged with P&O Maritime and started operating under the P&O brand as P&O Maritime Logistics.

www.pomaritime.com / www.topazworld.com

About DP World:

We are the leading provider of smart logistics solutions, enabling the flow of trade across the globe. Our comprehensive range of products and services covers every link of the integrated supply chain – from maritime and inland terminals to marine services and industrial parks as well as technology-driven customer solutions.

We deliver these services through an interconnected global network of 127 business units in 51 countries across six continents, with a significant presence both in high-growth and mature markets. Wherever we operate, we integrate sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship into our activities, striving for a positive contribution to the economies and communities where we live and work.

Our dedicated, diverse and professional team of more than 56,000 employees from 134 countries are committed to delivering unrivalled value to our customers and partners. We do this by focussing on mutually beneficial relationships – with governments, shippers, traders, and other stakeholders along the global supply chain – relationships built on a foundation of mutual trust and enduring partnership.

We think ahead, anticipate change and deploy industry-leading technology to create the smartest, most efficient and innovative trade solutions, while ensuring a positive and sustainable impact on economies, societies and our planet.

www.dpworld.com

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