UAE - Breakbulk is focused on a vital element of the transportation sector - the movement of project cargo - something critical for oil and gas, energy and infrastructure projects.

The UAE has one of the most developed maritime sectors in the region, top officials said during the opening day of Breakbulk Middle East in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

The Federal Authority for Land and Maritime Transport director-general Dr Eng Abdulla Salem Al Katheeri said: "Breakbulk is focused on a vital element of the transportation sector - the movement of project cargo - something critical for oil and gas, energy and infrastructure projects across the Middle East," Al Katheeri said.

The UAE is a key player in driving offshore investment in the region with a total growth of $170 billion to $190 billion between 2014 and 2017. It accounts for 30 to 35 per cent of the total regional maritime sector investment at $66 billion.

Abu Dhabi Ports executive vice-president of ports operations Abdelkareem Al Masabi said: "Despite the challenges the sector has faced globally and regionally, especially in recent years, we anticipate good results starting this year and in the years to come. This is due to the launch of several major infrastructure projects and continued focus on economic diversification plans in the region."

DP World UAE Region CEO and MD Mohammed Al Muallem said as Expo 2020 drew closer, the demand for breakbulk and special project cargo will rise sharply. "We are ensuring that Jebel Ali Port fulfills its role as the premier gateway for Expo-bound cargo," Al Muallem said.

Jebel Ali Port is operated by DP World. The breakbulk sector remains a source of opportunities for the region with Jebel Ali acting as the Ro-Ro hub close to some of the world's largest emerging markets.

Meanwhile, Agility Project Logistics COO Mohammed Jaber said the industry is witnessing a paradigm shift due to changes in technology and the geopolitical landscape. "The future belongs to those who prove to be versatile and can reorient themselves towards this new reality."

The day saw panel discussion by leading shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, transport specialists and service providers on handling projects in post-conflict regions, evolving industrial project supply chain and a seminar of whether online shipping platforms lead to a digitised project industry.

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