KAEC — As Saudi Arabia steps up efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, King Abdullah Port reassures its users of complete readiness to receive containers, bulk and general cargo. All terminal operations and marine services are optimized to serve all types of cargo and particularly food, drugs, and medical devices, to meet the country’s requirements in light of the precautionary measures taken by the Kingdom to protect its citizens and residents from the effect of coronavirus. With its huge capacity of reefer container handling, King Abdullah Port is fully geared for receiving refrigerated containerized cargo including food and medicines. Importers will continue to benefit from the 24 hours’ customs clearance without any interruptions, with the support of more than 17 other governmental entities, in order to facilitate the process of clearing goods efficiently. Considering the exceptional global circumstances, King Abdullah Port has announced the extension of the storage waiver period from 5 days to 10 days to support the business of exporters / importers and ensure a smooth logistics supply. The port is also implementing preventive measures and adopting e-operations to the fullest possible extent to reduce face-to-face interaction without compromising on its high level of cargo release efficiency King Abdullah Port has taken a series of immediate precautionary and protective measures in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to ensure the safety and health of all personnel at the port. Shipping agents have been asked to send all information to the Ministry of Health no later than 24 hours prior to the arrival of vessels for proper screening and taking preventive actions, if needed. Run by the Ports Development Company, King Abdullah Port is the first port in the region to be fully owned, developed and operated by the private sector. It has been listed as the world’s fastest-growing container port and one of the 100 largest ports globally after less than four years of operation. Further, 10 of the largest shipping lines work at the port to offer integrated services to importers and exporters. King Abdullah Port’s development plan is progressing at a steady pace and it is set to consolidate its place among the leading ports worldwide. Its advanced facilities and proximity to a bonded and re-export zone and logistics park provide world-class logistics support for clients and enable them to achieve their desired growth. — SG