In the last two years, the Port of Gothenburg has prepared its Ro/Ro, car and container terminals for privatisation by incorporating them as separate concession holders, believing that private ownership of these terminals will give a new impulse to investment, competitiveness and cargo volumes.
“This is a big day not only for Gothenburg but also for the whole of Swedish industry. With APM Terminals global network and expertise and a willingness to invest, the Port of Gothenburg will consolidate its role as the major international port in Sweden,” said Sven Hulterström, Chairman of the Port of Gothenburg.
“We are delighted that APM Terminals has been selected for this important national container terminal by the leaders of the Port of Gothenburg. It underlines the value our port expertise delivers to governments and customers whose focus is on meeting their national and commercial objectives. Projects like this enable us to grow national and regional economies. It is our experience that for a public-private partnership to be successful, the skills and commitment of the government is crucial. Throughout the bid process, we have been impressed by the Gothenburg Port Authority’s clarity of objectives and effective approach to achieve them. We will build on the port’s current strengths of location and deep water, introducing our core expertise in world-class operational excellence and safety, improving productivity levels and developing new solutions that attract more business,” added Martin Poulsen, CEO of APM Terminals Europe Region, based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
The deal is subject to approval from the Swedish Competition Authorities. The planned transfer of management and operations would be the first quarter 2012.
“Our vision is to continue strengthening Skandia Container Terminal’s position as a key trade gateway in Sweden and an economic generator for the country. We are committed to establishing world-class port standards and infrastructure. We have the scale and expertise to do this – and look forward to working with the Port of Gothenburg to make this a joint success”, said Poulsen.