APM Terminals and Plaquemines Port Harbor and Terminal District (Plaquemines Port) signed a letter of intent for the construction of a state-of-the-art container terminal on the West Bank of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, US.
“This major commitment shows the market’s tremendous confidence in Louisiana as the home of vibrant, growing port activity,” said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who added, “Today’s announcement is a direct investment into the businesses and industries that have built Louisiana, and I look forward to the major impact our ports will continue to have on job growth and the economy here in our state.”
The new terminal is expected to create new business west of the Mississippi River, allowing for new markets of import and export cargoes while continuing to grow the various existing Louisiana markets.
Plaquemines Port will lease the land to APM Terminals under a 30-year agreement with extension options. The Maersk-owned port and terminal operator estimates the initial investment in terminal infrastructure will be approximately US$500 million, which will be privately funded.
The initial phase will encompass 200,000m², on-dock rail, and a berth capable of handling the vessels of 14,000 TEU box capacity, while there will be options to expand the site up to 900,000m² for terminal expansion and complementary logistics activities.
Wim Lagaay, APM Terminals senior investment advisor to the CEO, commented, “This venture allows us to build from the ground up, integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to create a modern logistics hub that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and productivity. Our collaboration with the Plaquemines Port and local stakeholders is key to developing a facility that sets new industry standards and serves as a boon to the economic vitality of the region.”