Egypt’s Damietta Port has handled the largest general cargo shipment in its history, receiving approximately 138,200 tonnes of slag imported from China aboard the dry bulk vessel ZHI DA 88, according to the Ministry of Transport. The Panamanian-flagged vessel, measuring 289 metres in length with a 15.5-metre draft, was berthed and unloaded in line with full maritime safety standards, highlighting the port’s capacity to accommodate large-scale vessels following recent infrastructure and equipment upgrades.
Tarek Adly, Chairman of the Damietta Port Authority, said the operation reflects the success of the port’s ongoing development plan, which targets higher throughput, improved operational efficiency, and a stronger position within global maritime trade networks. He noted that handling such unprecedented volumes signals growing confidence among local and international shipping lines, while contributing to stronger supply chains and broader economic activity.
Beyond its immediate operational significance, the milestone underscores Damietta Port’s expanding role beyond container traffic into bulk and industrial cargo, supporting construction and manufacturing supply chains. It also strengthens Egypt’s competitive standing among Mediterranean ports at a time when shippers are increasingly prioritising reliability, scale, and turnaround efficiency.
The record shipment aligns with Egypt’s wider ports modernisation agenda led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir, which aims to position the country as a regional hub for logistics, transit trade, and shipping. Sustained execution of similar large-scale operations could translate into higher cargo volumes, stronger port revenues, and deeper integration of Egyptian ports into East–West trade corridors.
