ICTSI Ecuador: Contecon Guayaquil Dredging Already Pays Off

Image source: Jan De Nul

Contecon Guayaquil, the Ecuadorian subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), set a new operational benchmark after servicing the largest ship to dock in Ecuador – the 10,010-TEU neo-Panamax CMA CGM Cochin.

Image source: Jan De Nul

According to the ICTSI’s latest announcement, “the vessel’s arrival highlights the importance of the recent dredging of the 95-kilometer main access channel leading to the country’s primary seaport. With deeper waters, the Port of Guayaquil is the first in Ecuador to accommodate ships of this size–elevating its status as a world-class port.”

CMA CGM Cochin

In October 2018, the City of Guayaquil granted Luxemborg-based Jan De Nul Group a 25-year concession for the capital dredging works and maintenance of the port’s access channel.

Commenting the latest announcement, José Antonio Contreras, CGSA Chief Executive Officer, said: “We congratulate and support the City of Guayaquil in its initiative to improve maritime access to the port. The dredging of the access channel paved the way for the arrival of these ships, which is something we look forward to as a huge boost to the local and national economy.”

“This also allows us to maximize our operations. We’ve made the necessary investments in infrastructure, equipment, and technology to ensure the efficient handling of these neo-Panamax vessels.” 

Earlier in March, Contecon Guayaquil also received the 10,500-TEU capacity boxship CAP San Sounio, described as a stimulus for maritime activity and trade.