OREANDA-NEWS. August 20, 2012. After winning a tender on December 15, 2011, APM Terminals Lazaro Cardenas S.A. de C.V. has now signed a 32-year concession contract with the Port Authority of the Port of Lazaro Cardenas (APILAC) for the design, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of a new specialized container terminal at the port.

APM Terminals will start construction by September of this year. The first phase will be completed in 2015, costing over USD 300 million. The terminal will undergo a phased expansion in accordance with provisions stipulated in the concession agreement. The entire project will require an investment of over USD 900 million.

"This agreement shows our confidence in the future of the Mexican market. Our investment and expertise will help transform the nation's competitiveness through an efficient, integrated port and inland service network. We look forward to working closely with Mexican leaders and applaud their timing and vision for this vital infrastructure project", stated JD Nielsen, Managing Director, APM Terminals Lazaro Cardenas SA de CV.

APM Terminals has signed a design build contract with one of the major contractors in Mexico, Empresas ICA. ICA is also minority shareholder in the concessionaire company.

Phased approach to building infrastructure

In phase one, a new 43 hectare container yard and 650 meter quay will be built. Additional works will include an administration building, warehouse, gates, and modern on-dock rail facilities to accommodate the growing volumes of intermodal traffic. Equipment in the first phase will include 7 Super-Post?Panamax ship?to?shore gantry cranes (23 container reach), as well as electrical yard cranes (E-RTGs) and other specialized equipment.

Once the final phase is completed, the terminal will offer a total area of 102 hectares, with 1,485 meters of quay, and water depth along the channel and quay of 16.5 meters.

The terminal design reflects the company's focus on safety and sustainability, operating under the most stringent occupational safety standards. The container handling equipment under consideration is eco-friendly, featuring the latest developments in energy efficiency to reduce emissions.