Mitsui involved in Grand Harbour cargo operations

Japanese giant Mitsui has become involved in the running of cargo operations in Grand Harbour, having absorbed the Portek Group.

Portek isa partner of Valletta Gateway Terminal, which in June 2006 was awarded a 30-year concession to operate and manage Grand Harbour Terminals. The other partner in Valletta Gateway is the Tumas Group. 

The Portek Group is a leading turnkey provider of equipment, services and solutions for the global port industry and has interest in the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa and the Americas.

Mitsui is one of the most diversified and comprehensive trading, investment and service enterprises in the world, with 155 offices in 69 counties. Its business that ranges from product sales, worldwide logistics and financing, through to the development of major international infrastructure and other projects in iron and steel products, mineral and metal resources, infrastructure projects, motor vehicles, marine and aerospace, chemicals, energy, foods and retail, consumer services, information, electronics and telecommunications, financial markets and transportation logistics.

Peter Darley, Managing director of VGT Malta, said that through the acquisition of Portek and the value the Portek brand stands for within the global port industry, Mitsui stands to grow significantly by adding the Portek operations worldwide, within its portfolio.

He said that thanks to Mitsui's formidable financial resources, networks, synergies and logistics operations worldwide, VGT in Malta will be in a stronger position to accelerate its growth as a hub within the Mediterranean and North African region.

The Mitsui Group includes Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding, which is the mother company of BWSC, the contractor responsible for the extension of the Delimara power station.