International ports management and logistics company Gulf tainer has announced a new service calling at Khorfakkan Container Terminal (KCT), which it operates on behalf of the Sharjah Ports Authority.

Throughout 2009, the economic downturn has affected business and trade all over the world. Inevitably, cargo and container volumes have reduced as exports and importsweakened in all areas. However, the Gulf region has been more resilient with through puts for most centres remaining at healthy levels.

Reacting tothis situation, and aiming to enhance their regional coverage from the exportcentres in Asia, Hanjin and follow Korean partners STX Pan Ocean and Sinokorhave initiated their 'FMX' service, with the first call at KCT on the evening of December 20.

The start ofthe weekly FMX service, which utilises six 4,000 teu ships, coincides neatly with the completion of the Stage 2 expansion at Khorfakkan, which will providethe terminal with more quay length and four new gantries.

Speaking afterthe maiden call of the 'Hanjin Gdynia,' the first FMX ship at Khorfakkan,Gulf tainer Group director and general manager Peter Richards said: 'In adifficult year for everyone working in the container shipping industry, itmakes a pleasant change to be able to emphasise some positive news. We are delighted that one of our oldest customers at KCT, Hanjin, and their partners have chosen to boost their presence in the region with additional FMX calls atour terminal, which is acknowledged to be the most productive in the entireregion - if not the world.'

Richards added: 'They are rightly recognising the importance of a well placed, productive andcost-effective hub port in this region and thanks to the commitment and investment of the Sharjah government, the Sharjah Port Authority and ourselves - KCT is that terminal. We wish Hanjin and their partners the very best ofsuccess with the new service.' 

KCT is one ofthe region's leading container transhipment ports, and is strategically locatedon Sharjah's Indian Ocean east coast, outside the sensitive Straits of Hormuz.