DP World, Kazakhstan to collaborate on integrated transport networks

The Dubai-based port terminal operator and the Central Asian nation signed two agreements that aim to connect sea, land and air transportation networks through DP World’s “Port Community System,” according to a statement from the company.    Dubai, UAE-based port terminal operator DP World and the government of Kazakhstan have signed two Memorandums of Understands (MoUs) for the development of a Port Community System (PCS) and to integrate customs processes ahead of the Astana Economic Forum, DP World said in a statement.
   PCS is an electronic platform developed by DP World company Dubai Trade that enables quick information exchange between maritime, inland and airport organizations.
   The goal of the two agreements is to “improve ease of doing business in Kazakhstan’s ports and free zones through paperless transactions that remove long queues in administrative offices, delays and duplication,” said DP World.
   The first MoU establishes a joint venture company to implement and manage the PCS system to create a multimodal transport corridor, also called the Eurasian Transcontinental Corridor. The venture will focus on automated logistics processes for cargo delivery and the combining f logistic centers at seaports and dry ports into a single network, said the port operator.
   The second MoU covers the integration of the nation’s customs processes into the PCS portal.
   DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem spoke at the annual Astana Economic Forum on the New Silk Road, stating that “multimodal connectivity is key to realizing the Kazakhstan President’s ‘path to the future’ vision, which includes the ‘Nurly Zhol’ – a $9 billion infrastructure spending program – to help prepare a future-ready economy.”
   A similar integration process has already occurred at DP World’s network in Jebel Ali.
   “Our experience in Dubai and in the 40 countries where we operate globally has taught us that integrating services makes trade faster, safer and more efficient for our stakeholders attracting investment and helping business,” he said. “That’s why these announcements today are important for Kazakhstan, providing smart trade solutions for the country and to increase efficiencies for business.”
   Kazakhstan “is at the crossroads of Asia and although landlocked President Nazarbayev’s commitment to improve internal and external connectivity to avoid the ‘transportation trap’ will propel growth,” continued bin Sulayem. “We are proud to be working with the government to build one of the largest transport and logistics hubs in the region.”