| Written by Mark Buzinkay
About the Project
Lustenau, Austria / Guayaquil, Ecuador - CGSA has recently marked a significant milestone by going live with Identec Solutions' Terminal Tracker. This strategic move within its port development visions has empowered the planning team at CGSA with unparalleled visibility and real-time awareness of yard activities. The project was carried out in phases. As it does not interfere with day-to-day usage and machine operation, it started with a single Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane. Terminal Tracker demonstrated from the beginning the promised capability to deliver accurate stow positions, container weights, and other vital information to the Terminal Operating System (TOS). CGSA embarked on a full-scale implementation across its RTG fleet after a successful first phase (learn more about terminal automation).
Martin Moreda, COO of CGSA, highlighted the project's transformative impact, stating, "The implementation of Terminal Tracker represents a dynamic change to our operations. It has increased our operational visibility and enhanced the efficiency and security of cargo handling within our terminal."
Julian Galvis, VP Sales Marine & Ports Americas at Identec Solutions, added, "Our collaboration with CGSA showcases Terminal Tracker's strength in optimizing terminal operations. We are proud to support CGSA in its mission to improve service quality and operational efficiency."
This collaboration between CGSA and Identec Solutions demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to port operations, leveraging technology to achieve higher efficiency, safety, and productivity. The successful implementation of Terminal Tracker sets a new standard for ports globally, positioning CGSA at the forefront of innovative operational management.
About Contecon Guayaquil (CGSA)
Nestled close to the most important export zones of the country, Contecon Guayaquil (CGSA) stands as an example of efficiency and capacity within the world's premier banana-exporting harbour. This multipurpose terminal is currently undergoing significant expansions, including the port and approach channel, to accommodate the new-Panamax class ships, signaling a leap towards modern maritime capabilities. Additionally, a monumental investment of USD 1 billion is fueling the construction of a highway, complete with port access roads, enhancing connectivity and logistical flow.
Positioned strategically, CGSA is Ecuador's largest and most sophisticated terminal, making it the port of choice for many due to its close proximity to the nation's export heartlands and seamless access to Quito, the capital. This terminal is pivotal not only for its size but also for its unmatched infrastructure geared towards refrigerated cargo—vital for the banana trade, which is a cornerstone of Ecuador's economy.
The terminal's offerings are comprehensive, boasting the country's largest reefer (refrigerated container) infrastructure, unparalleled road access, and the highest number of gates. These features ensure efficient truck turnarounds and heightened security, making CGSA a linchpin in the logistical chain. A purpose-designed logistics facility (ZAL) is also part of CGSA's arsenal, aimed at streamlining the preparation of reefers while minimizing the need for additional trucking, handling, and the associated risks of reefer malfunctioning.
With Ecuador leading the global stage as the largest exporter of bananas – a trade valued at $2.6 billion annually – CGSA's role is undeniably critical. Its proximity to the main banana farms, within 250km, coupled with its superior reefer infrastructure, positions CGSA as an indispensable ally to the banana export sector, underlining the terminal's importance in bolstering Ecuador's economic landscape.
Contecton Guayaquil S.A. in brief
Contecon Guayaquil S.A. (CGSA), a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), operates the Libertador Simon Bolivar Container and Multipurpose Terminal at the Port of Guayaquil in Ecuador. Established in 2007, CGSA has significantly contributed to Ecuador's foreign trade and economic development through its robust infrastructure and state-of-the-art technology.
Key Features and Infrastructure:
- Largest Multipurpose Terminal: CGSA is the largest and most comprehensive terminal in Ecuador, strategically located near major export zones and the capital, Quito.
- Reefer Infrastructure: The terminal boasts the largest reefer infrastructure in Ecuador, essential for the country’s substantial banana exports.
- Equipment and Technology: CGSA uses advanced equipment including quay cranes capable of servicing neo-Panamax vessels and recently introduced next-generation scanners for enhanced security. It has also implemented a private LTE network to support digital transformation and a Port-to-Door service platform for real-time cargo tracking.
Recent Developments and Investments:
- Investment in Infrastructure: CGSA has invested over $360 million since its inception, with plans to increase total investment to $30 million. Recent projects include raising the height and extending the boom lengths of quay cranes, reinforcing docks, and deepening Pier 1 to 13.5 meters.
- Handling Capacity: CGSA is on track to move more than 900,000 TEUs in 2023, a 5% increase over the previous year. Thanks to its extensive quay, the terminal can handle three neo-Panamax ships simultaneously.
Key Performance Indicators for 2023:
- Cargo Handled: As of September 2023, CGSA has handled 135 million tonnes of cargo since operations began.
- TEU Throughput: The terminal is projected to handle over 900,000 TEUs by the end of 2023, demonstrating significant growth in container traffic.
These achievements underscore CGSA’s role as a vital logistics hub in South America, enhancing Ecuador's trade capabilities and supporting economic growth through continuous innovation and investment (1).
Delve deeper into one of our core topics: Port Automation
Sources:
(1) https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/
Note: This article was updated on the 22nd of May 2024
