34m metric tonnes handled through SOHAR Port and Freezone

SUHAR: Total cargo handled at Sohar Port and Freezone reached about 34 million metric tonnes in the first half of this year, influenced by regional geopolitical shifts compared with the same period in 2024.

This coincided with substantial investments in facilities and the adoption of advanced digital solutions that are enhancing operating capacity.

These developments are expected to accelerate throughput and strengthen the global competitiveness of the integrated ecosystem. Dredging at the liquefied natural gas (LNG) berth has been completed, expanding Oman’s strategic capacity for energy exports and paving the way for promising near-term opportunities.

Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of Sohar Port and Freezone, said the performance reflects the clarity and effectiveness of the strategy at Sohar Port and Freezone, and its confident progress on a long-term growth path through infrastructure upgrades, digital innovation, sustainable business solutions and stronger supply-chain resilience. He added that the integrated ecosystem is cementing its position as a strategic gateway for international trade, reinforcing its role in Oman Vision 2040 and the region’s wider growth.

He noted the port recorded a record year for investment in 2024, with momentum continuing in 2025 — bolstering ambitions for a more prosperous future across all fronts.

He affirmed ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency, support Oman’s industrial growth and create sustainable value for stakeholders, with a focus on attracting high-quality investments.

The Sohar Port and Freezone signed six new land-lease agreements in H1 2025 covering more than 92 hectares, with investments exceeding $1.3 billion. The projects span green manufacturing, energy and logistics — underscoring the Freezone’s role in strengthening cooperation and partnership within an integrated ecosystem. This supports the Freezone’s position as a vital hub for sustainable industrial development and deepens Oman’s regional trade links.

Construction is also progressing on a major infrastructure expansion in the Freezone covering 670 hectares, which will increase capacity, create an attractive environment for future industries and reinforce its position as a key centre for trade and investment.

Mohammed bin Ali al Shizawi, Acting CEO of Sohar Port and Freezone, said the continuing expansion reflects the Freezone’s strong investment fundamentals and investor confidence in its integrated platform. By developing 670 hectares, the Freezone will provide a business environment conducive to the growth and success of advanced industries, supported by world-class infrastructure, advanced operations and an enabling regulatory framework.

He explained that the Freezone’s strategic direction is anchored in contributing to Oman’s economic diversification, in line with global shifts towards green energy and the circular economy, thereby enhancing the position of Sohar Port and Freezone as a destination for future industry and logistics.

Sohar Port and Freezone’s commitment to supporting the national economy is also reflected in higher in-country value (ICV) indicators: 62 per cent of purchase orders were awarded to Omani companies, while the share of orders placed with local suppliers rose to 96 per cent, up from 91 per cent in the same period of 2024.

This growth underscores efforts to empower SMEs, elevate national talent and deliver lasting socio-economic impact.

Sohar Port and Freezone also expanded their presence through targeted corporate social responsibility initiatives in education, healthcare and social development, benefitting more than 3,471 people in the first half of this year. — ONA

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}