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P&O Maritime Logistics (“POML”), a Dubai-based marine solutions and logistics company, has recently secured a contract to build two vessels to support Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s (OTML) growing export requirements. The vessels, designed by Wartsila Ship Design, will be built at Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding Limited in China, and once completed, will operate in Papua New Guinea (PNG) principally between Kiunga in the Western Province and Port Moresby.
POML currently operates 10 vessels in PNG, nine of which are operated in support of OTML’s operations and the OK Tedi Development Foundation. Of its nine vessels, four are used to ship copper concentrate from Kiunga in the Western Province via the Fly River to Port Moresby for export. The fit-out and design of the existing vessels, as well as the newbuilds, have been optimised to operate on the Fly River. The vessels will maximise cargo lift, whilst also meeting the unique environmental requirements and ensuring that the communities on the river are not impacted by the ships’ operations.
Commenting on the contract, Robert Desai, Chief Commercial Officer said:
“P&O Maritime Logistics has been operating in PNG for over 30 years. During this time, we have consistently invested in growth – towards our operations and supporting our client’s important work for the PNG economy, as well as towards the communities in which we operate.
We appreciate OTML’s continued trust in our capabilities and look forward to repaying that confidence by consistent world-class service. This contract reflects our robust safety and operational track-record, and the value and quality of our operations in PNG. We look forward to contributing to future projects in PNG and continuing to invest in the growth of the local economy.”
In 2019 POML took part in the sustainability awareness campaign, conducted in partnership with the Ok Tedi Development Foundation’s (OTDF) education division, which subsequently led to the launch of the Maritime Cadet Scholarship program. Additionally, POML’s localisation initiatives have been a success, with 95% of onshore and offshore staff being Papua New Guinean. The addition of the new ships is expected to lead to an increase in staff of about 35.
