ICTSI, the leading terminal operator from the Philippines is among four firms to have been approved to tender for a pair of new ports in Israel. Tenders for the 25-year concessions are now expected in November. The other companies in the mix are MSC, Eurogate and Shanghai International Port Group.
Israel Ports Company ceo Shlomo Brieman said, “The inclusion of competing private operating companies in the Israeli ports sector will bring Israel’s ports up to the same level as modern ports around the world that operate on a competitive model. These companies have high service levels by international standards, to which the importers, exporters, shippers, and those dealing in foreign trade are entitled.”
Tel Aviv’s plans to introduce private terminals to grow competition in the ports sector has drawn the ire of port workers in the country, resulting in a number of strikes.