Saudi-based Red Sea Gateway Terminal International (RSGTI) has marked the inauguration of RSGT Bangladesh in Chittagong (Bangladesh), showcasing Saudi Arabia's growing footprint in the operation of ports and terminals.

The $170 million investment represents the first international port concession in Bangladesh and stands as a powerful example of Saudi expertise and capital driving progress in strategically vital emerging markets. It also extends the operational excellence of RSGT, the largest container terminal in Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea, to one of South Asia's most important trade corridors, said a statement.

Since securing the 22-year concession in 2023, RSGT has transformed its terminal into Bangladesh's most technologically advanced container facility, doubling capacity from 250,000 to 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU), through the supply of four modern coastal cranes (STS) for container handling, resulting in a 30% productivity improvement over other regional terminals.

This achievement builds on RSGT's reputation as one of the fastest-growing terminal operators in the region, reinforcing the Kingdom's position at the forefront of global maritime and logistics innovation.

Lars Vang Christensen, Group CEO of RSGT, said: "RSGT Bangladesh is a proud demonstration of Saudi capability and vision extending far beyond our borders. It reflects the ambition, commitment and world-class standards that define RSGT, and we are proud to transfer and employ Saudi expertise and knowledge to support Bangladesh's primary trade gateway. This is only the beginning of our journey as a leading emerging-markets port operator."

Building on RSGT Bangladesh success, RSGT has expressed interest in a further $1 billion investment in Bangladesh's maritime sector - underscoring the Kingdom's long-term commitment to strengthening global trade networks and delivering enduring value across the markets it serves.

Red Sea Gateway Terminal International, partly owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, operates RSGT Jeddah and is expanding globally through strategic concessions, including Patenga Container Terminal in Bangladesh, as part of its ambition to become a leading emerging-markets port operator. - TradeArabia News Service