RAIL-

DP World launches new rail services in India: The UAE’s DP World has launched two rail services linking India’s western manufacturing hubs in Gujarat state’s Bhimasar and Hazira to the eastern trading hubs in Kolkata, West Bengal, according to a statement. The move — part of DP World’s USD 207 mn investment in India’s railway freight system — aims to expedite cargo transportation for edible oils, chemicals, steel, industrial goods, grains, and salt.

The details: The Bhimasar-Kolkata service will operate twice on a monthly basis with an eight-day transit time, and the Hazira-Kolkata service will have the same rotation time but with a seven-day transit. Both services have a 90k TEU capacity.

INVESTMENT WATCH-

Nine Chinese and Turkish companies are investing a combined USD 41.6 mn in the Ismailia Public Freezone, according to a statement. The projects span a variety of sectors, including textile, ready-made garments, athletic protective gear, and parts for heating and plumbing devices. The projects are expected to create some 16k direct jobs, with production slated to begin in 2026.

PORTS-

KDP joins CMA CGM network: Oman’s Asyad Group-operated Khazaen Dry Port (KDP) has received its first international container shipment as a final destination port, after it joined French shipping conglomerate CMA CGM’s global shipping network, with Sohar Port serving as a transit hub, according to a statement. This connects local importers and exporters to global shipping routes, while expediting customs clearance, which will be handled at KDP.

TRADE-

AD Ports eyes digital trade solutions: The UAE’s AD Ports Group has inked a framework agreement with digital financial services provider MBME Group to develop fintech and digital trade solutions, according to a statement. The two players will evaluate potential trade tech solutions to be deployed on local and international markets — with a focus on tracing, digital payments, compliance suites, e-signatures, onboarding, and whistleblowing systems.

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