multi-modal logistics hub to cut cost and turnaround time

The Kingdom of Bahrain has launched the fastest regional multi-modal logistics hub in the region with only a 2hr turnaround time for all containers – i.e. products can be with customers in half the time and at 40% of the cost.

The hub relies on streamlined clearance procedures, optimized logistics, and full digitization to achieve an end-to-end lead time of just under two hours for goods transiting from Bahrain International Airport to Khalifa bin Salman Port, and vice versa.

The launch of the “Bahrain Global Sea-Air Hub” capitalizes on Bahrain’s strategic position midway between European and Asian markets as well as on its proximity to regional target markets by establishing the most efficient multimodal sea-air transshipment hub in the region with a global reach.

Bahrain’s sea-air hub serves as a valuable alternative for manufacturers and freight forwarders, particularly with the  ongoing shipping crisis.The gains translate to a 50% reduction in average lead time compared to pure sea freight and a 40% reduction in cost compared to pure air freight.

Bahrain will grant partner status with this initiative to all global markets which will allow granting their nationally based companies the opportunity to become an authorized ‘trusted shipper’ at the Bahrain’s Global sea-to-air logistics hub.

H.E Kamal bin Ahmed,Bahrain Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications said,”the launch of this Global Sea-to-Air logistics hub, the fastest in the Middle East, here in Bahrain is a real opportunity not only for global logistics companies but also for exporters across the world.He added “we can only do this because of our unique position, the proximity of our ports, as well as our regulators, operators and port authorities working closely together and our state-of-the-art digital processing solution.”

This hub will enable the growth of the Bahrain logistics sector which will contribute to further diversify the Kingdom economy. Bahrain non-oil GDP year-on-year growth reached 7.8% in Q2 in 2021.The operating cost within the logistics sector is 45% lower in Bahrain compared to neighboring markets, as per KPMG 2019 report “Cost of Doing Business in Logistics”. This has positioned Bahrain as an attractive destination for global and regional businesses.

Picture:Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT)