MANILA's International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) has announced a long-term partnership with the Iraqi Port Authority to expand Umm Qasr Port on the Persian Gulf.

"ICTSI is partnering with the Government of Iraq to invest in Umm Qasr Port, facilitating the unlocking of Iraq's enormous economic potential by building the country's port facilities of the future," said a company statement.

Risk-taking ICTSI has terminals in countries with high hopes but present difficulties. Its container terminal was shut down in war-torn Syria and its box shop in Madagascar faced widespread civil strife. It is also embroiled in a complex civil dispute in Portland, Oregon, with the dockers' union and the electricians' union.

In Iraq, with an initial investment of US$130 million, ICTSI will operate and expand container and general cargo facilities in the port. Phase 1 will include a new 200 metre quay wall and storage yard, with a capacity of 300,000 TEU.

At full build out, the facility will have 600 metres of quay and a 900,000 TEU capacity. ICTSI will also operate and manage the existing container terminal on Umm Qasr's Berth 20. In 2013, throughput totalled 500,000 TEU.

"This is by far the largest ever private investment in Iraqi ports. We are excited about this opportunity, and we would like to thank the Government of Iraq for the continued support in this endeavor," said ICTSI chairman and president Enrique Razo.

Umm Qasr is the largest port in Iraq and the main gateway to the Iraqi market. The port handles liquid and dry bulk, general cargo and containers. It has 21 berths, with total berth length of 5,000 metres.