DP World announced that it handled 71 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of container terminals in 2019, representing a slight increase of 1% in container volumes year-on-year.

In a statement, the Dubai-based global terminal operator said like-for-like gross volumes in the fourth quarter of 2019 also rose by 2.1% — driven by Asia Pacific and Africa.

Jebel Ali, however, handled 14.1 million TEU in 2019 down 5.6% year-on-year due to a decline in low margin cargo.

At a consolidated, DP World said its terminals handled 39.9 million TEU in 2019, an 8.6% improvement in performance on a reported basis and down 0.5% year-on-year on a like-for-like basis.

“2019 has been a challenging year with the trade war between China and US and regional geopolitics causing uncertainty in the market. Despite this, our portfolio has delivered growth which once again demonstrates the resilience of our business,"said Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group chairman and chief executive officer.

He noted that DP World saw saw robust growth across Asia and Africa driven by Pusan (South Korea), Qingdao (China), Manila (Philippines) and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).

In Europe, the terminal operator also saw continued ramp-up in London Gateway (UK) and Yarimca (Turkey) while Prince Rupert (Canada) and Callao (Peru) continued to deliver strong growth.

"In the UAE, volumes were down due to the loss of low-margin throughput, where we remain focused on high margin cargo and maintaining profitability," he added.

Well-positioned for 2020 growth

Sulayem said this year, DP World will be focused on integrating its recent acquisitions, managing costs and making disciplined investment.

"In 2019, we have focused on delivering an integrated supply chain solutions product that allows us to connect directly with end customers. We are seeing positive signs of progress in our new businesses that give us encouragement for the future."

"The near-term focus is on integrating our recent acquisitions, managing costs and disciplined investment to cement DP Worlds position as the logistics partner of choice."

"Overall, we remain well placed to deliver full year market expectations," he further said.