KUWAIT:
Sheikh Khaled Salem Abdulaziz Al-Sabah, Director General of Kuwait Ports Authority, stated that the authority is preparing to enter the realm of smart ports, with the goal of improving its position in the port management and operations sector. He outlined the authority’s strategy for developing its staff to meet the anticipated growth in maritime transport and enhance the connection between Kuwait’s economy and global markets.
In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Sheikh Khaled explained that the authority is focusing on training its employees in areas such as port management, operations, logistics, and information technology. This is to ensure they are equipped to manage changes in the region and facilitate the transition to “smart ports.”
The authority is also investing in training programs, both locally and internationally, and encouraging participation in regional and international exhibitions and conferences. Sheikh Khaled noted that this would help improve staff performance, support their involvement in decision-making, and provide them with tools to enhance productivity and contribute to sharing expertise.
Regarding the authority’s financial performance, Sheikh Khaled mentioned that the ports have managed to maintain profitability through several key measures, such as controlling costs, ensuring smooth unloading operations, and expanding storage areas to speed up cargo handling. These efforts aim to accommodate a larger number of ships and address obstacles in the movement of goods, including customs inspections.
The authority is also working on increasing its revenues by improving operational efficiency, attracting more ships, and pursuing investment projects in Kuwait’s three main ports: Shuwaikh, Shuaiba, and Doha. These projects include making use of available land for storage, which is expected to attract regional and international companies.
Sheikh Khaled highlighted that the authority is focusing on short-term plans to enhance the infrastructure of Shuwaikh and Shuaiba ports, particularly in terms of service networks and internal roads, as part of the preparation for the national development plan. The national development plan includes further expansion of Kuwait’s ports and their facilities, increasing their capacity by deepening the navigational channel to accommodate larger ships, expanding docks, and increasing storage areas. The plan also outlines improvements in machinery and operational efficiency to facilitate the movement of goods.
On the topic of international competitiveness, Sheikh Khaled emphasized the importance of digital transformation and technological advancements to support efficient operations. This includes upgrading port facilities, enhancing services, and updating regulations to align with international standards. The authority is also seeking guidance from global consultants to support these efforts.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Khaled shared that the authority is currently reviewing several projects that will begin in the upcoming months, including tenders for feasibility studies on developing maritime areas and utilizing land for storage. These initiatives are expected to enhance the authority’s revenue streams.
Sheikh Khaled also acknowledged the role of the private sector in managing ports and handling cargo. He confirmed that the authority will continue to collaborate with private companies to improve port operations. Any potential privatization of sectors within the authority, he stated, would depend on the broader national strategy for the port sector. — KUNA
