Dubai’s DP World experienced a record year for container handling in 2011, with 54.7 million TEU passing through its terminals worldwide, representing a 10 per cent year-on-year increase.

The group’s consolidated terminals handled 27.5 million TEU during 2011.

“Had our five terminals in Australia not been deconsolidated from March 12, consolidated terminals would have delivered nine per cent growth ahead of the prior year. Like for like growth across our portfolio of consolidated terminals was eight per cent,” the company said.

The growth was driven by an “exceptionally strong” performance in the UAE region, which delivered volume growth of 12 per cent to handle 13 million TEU for the year. “The UAE region has gone from strength to strength during 2011 with each quarter delivering yet another record performance culminating in 16 per cent volume growth in the final quarter of 2011.”

Strong results were also seen from its container terminals located in Asia Pacific, Africa and the Americas, together with the addition of new capacity from its terminals in Karachi, Pakistan and Vallarpadam, India, both of which opened in early 2011.

Said CEO Mohammed Sharaf: “As we look ahead, we continue to remain confident about the long-term outlook for our industry. We believe our continued investment in existing and new terminals around the world will ensure our portfolio is best positioned to meet the expectations of our customers and their future requirements.”

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