19 March 2024 (Lloyd's List) - MAERSK’s terminal division APM Terminals has signed a memorandum of understanding to extend its co-operation agreement with Hateco Haiphong International Container Terminal in northern Vietnam.

The move follows on from the strategic partnership signed with Hateco last year for a project to develop two new deepwater berths at Lach Huyen port in Haiphong.

The project will be able to attract ultra large vessels to Haiphong and reduce the cost of import and export for North Vietnam after it starts operations during the first quarter of 2025.

As part of the project, APMT will share best practices on safety, port automation, artificial intelligence and decarbonisation.

“Vietnam is a rapidly growing and high-potential market in Southeast Asia and the strategic collaboration underpins our ambition to grow where it benefits our customers,” said APMT Asia chief executive Jon Goldner.

“I am happy that we are now strengthening our co-operation by assisting HHIT to reach its goal to have a sustainable and efficient terminal that is fit for the future and benefits customers.”

HHIT chief executive Nguyen Van Tien said the arrangement would help HHIT to develop “the largest, most modern, and environmentally sustainable container port” in northern Vietnam.

Developments would include automation and electrification when a suitable electricity supply can be developed.

“Haiphong City and the surrounding logistics and manufacturing development represents a clear and current opportunity for the terminal development to directly support the growing business activities in the region and provide a tangible catalyst for shipping lines and cargo owners to take advantage of the opportunities that are here,” said Maersk Asia head of investments Jian Dan.

Maersk has been active in Vietnam since 2007, when it launched a joint venture with Cai Mep International Terminal.