Maersk’s APM Terminals to invest $500 million in Plaquemines Port terminal

January 15, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

A.P. Moller-Maersk’s APM Terminals has partnered with Plaquemines Port Harbor and Terminal District (Plaquemines Port) to build a major container terminal on the West Bank of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, United States.

According to APM Terminals, the new terminal holds significant potential to enable new business west of the Mississippi River, allowing for new markets for import and export cargo while continuing to grow the various existing Louisiana markets. It will be the port closest to the mouth of the river with the widest ship-turning radius.

Plaquemines Port will lease the land to APM Terminals under a 30-year agreement with extension options. APM Terminals estimates the initial investment in terminal infrastructure will be approximately $500 million, which will be privately funded.

The initial phase will encompass 200 acres, on-dock rail, and a berth capable of handling the largest ships now traversing the expanded Panama Canal (14,000 TEU).

There will be options to expand the site up to 900 acres for terminal expansion and complementary logistics activities.

“In time, this greenfield site has all the potential to evolve into one of the big ship gateways into the U.S.,” said Wim Lagaay, APM Terminals’ Senior Investment Advisor to the CEO.

“This venture allows us to build from the ground up, integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to create a modern logistics hub that lifts standards of safety, efficiency, and productivity. Our collaboration with the Plaquemines Port and local stakeholders is key to developing a facility that sets new industry standards and serves as a boon to the economic vitality of the region.”

“This development agreement is a testament to the confidence that APM Terminals has in Plaquemines’ key advantages. It will greatly increase global commerce flowing through Louisiana,” Brian Champagne, Port Commission Chairman, added.