AD Ports Group Expands Operations In Angola With New Logistics Agreements And Investments

AD Ports Group has entered into an agreement with Angola's trade regulator, ARCCLA, to develop a digital Single Logistics Trade Window solution. Additionally, the Group is purchasing 30 new trucks and 45 trailers for its Angolan logistics business, Noatum Unicargas Logistics, valued at approximately US$6 million. These initiatives aim to enhance Angola's trade infrastructure and logistics capabilities.

The Group's expansion in Angola follows its commitment to invest US$250 million by 2026 in redeveloping the Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal. This terminal is a key facility at Angola's largest port. The investment comes six months after AD Ports Group began operations in Angola in January. The Port of Luanda handles about 76% of the country's container and general cargo volumes.

Ricardo Viegas de Abreu, Angola's Minister of Transport, expressed enthusiasm for strengthening ties with AD Ports Group. He stated, "We welcome this opportunity to strengthen our productive relationship with AD Ports Group, a key investor in Angola and a strategic partner in our national transformation." This partnership aims to modernise Angola’s maritime and commercial infrastructure.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi highlighted the significance of these agreements. He said, "The signings today underscore our commitment to developing Luanda and Angola into a main trade hub for West Africa." The new truck fleet for Noatum Unicargas Logistics and the development of the Digital Single Logistics Trade Window are part of this strategic vision.

Maqta Technologies, AD Ports Group’s digital arm, is tasked with creating JUL, a digital single logistics trade window solution for ARCCLA. JUL aims to simplify trade processes in Angola by integrating existing platforms like RNPL and JUCE with customs systems. This initiative will streamline sea trade operations and reduce carbon emissions over three phases during a three-year agreement.

The development of JUL will leverage AD Ports Group’s expertise gained from acquiring TTEK and Dubai Technologies. These companies specialise in border control solutions and transportation systems. JUL will harmonise trade across sea, air, and land routes, enhancing operational efficiency in Angola’s logistics sector.

Exploring Wider Cooperation

AD Ports Group has signed five preliminary agreements with Angolan partners to explore broader cooperation in maritime services, training, logistics, airport cargo handling services, and healthcare. A framework agreement with Angola’s Ministry of Transport will examine potential collaborations in institutionalising a national maritime academy and developing marine terminals.

An MoU with Agencia Maritima Nacional focuses on creating a national maritime academy. Collaborations with Secil Maritima SA will explore maritime cargo services. Additionally, DOCKTOUR—a joint venture with Burjeel Holding—will work with Angola’s Ministry of Health on logistics for medical supplies.

Noatum Unicargas Logistics operates one of Africa's most modern overland transport fleets through its joint venture with local partner Unicargas. The addition of new trucks nearly doubles its fleet size to 70 trucks and 95 trailers. This expansion supports the Group’s goal to make Luanda a central trade hub for West Africa.

The agreements were signed by Ricardo Viegas de Abreu and Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali from AD Ports Group. These partnerships are expected to bring lasting economic growth to Angola under UAE leadership guidance.

With inputs from WAM