Basra Gateway Terminal handles largest vessel call at Umm Qasr

International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) says its firm at the Port of Umm Qasr, Iraq, Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) set a new industry benchmark by successfully handled the HMM Daon, the largest container vessel to dock at the port.

According to ICTSI, the ship’s arrival on 19 March underscores the terminal’s capability to accommodate ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).

BGT’s ability to efficiently handle ULCVs is the result of continued infrastructure investments, including the deployment of three post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes. The modern facilities, combined with a skilled workforce, ensure smooth operations at Iraq’s busiest port. Under ICTSI’s management, BGT has developed into a high-performing multipurpose terminal that caters to general, project, and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) cargo. With six berths and state-of-the-art technology, BGT remains the only terminal in Umm Qasr capable of efficiently handling 16,000-TEU vessels.

The HMM Daon has a beam of 51 meters, a length overall of 365.16 meters, and a gross tonnage of 152,003. The vessel is part of the Premiere Alliance consortium by HMM, Yang Ming, and Ocean Network Express, which facilitates imports from China and the Far East.

The successful handling of HMM Daon reflects BGT’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s economic growth and facilitating seamless trade connections between the country and global markets.

Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) is a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) headquartered in the Philippines. In 2014, ICTSI signed a contract with the General Company for Ports in Iraq to manage, operate and rehabilitate terminal facilities in North Port Umm Qasr, Iraq and to develop and expand container handling capacity via new infrastructure development. ICTSI has progressively built on this initial commitment.