The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has issued strict directives prohibiting the entry of any containers transported by trucks lacking valid operating permits issued by the Public Transport Authority at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. This decision comes as part of efforts to regulate the logistics and transport sector and enhance compliance with applicable regulations and laws in the Kingdom.
Details of the decision and legal responsibility
The Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce clarified that it received an official letter from the Federation of Saudi Chambers containing a circular from the General Authority of Ports, emphasizing the necessity for all contractors and stakeholders involved in projects and operational contracts to use approved transport vehicles. The Authority confirmed that it will not tolerate any violations of this decision, holding violators fully responsible, both legally and financially, without any liability on the part of the Authority.
The authority indicated that this measure encompasses all direct and indirect transactions related to the transport of containers to and from the storage yards within the port's logistics zone. It also warned that non-compliance will result in the immediate refusal to accept containers, emphasizing that no financial claims or compensation arising from this prohibition will be considered, including demurrage charges or operational costs. The beneficiary or operator of the violating vehicle will bear all consequences.
Context of regulating the logistics sector
This move comes within a broader context aligned with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, launched by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, which aims to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents. Relevant authorities, such as the Saudi Ports Authority and the Public Transport Authority, are working in harmony and integration to ensure that all land transport operations related to ports adhere to the highest safety and regulatory standards, contributing to the elimination of commercial concealment in the transport sector and enhancing the efficiency of the operating fleet.
The importance of King Abdulaziz Port and the impact of the decision
King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam is the Kingdom's main port on the Arabian Gulf coast and a vital gateway for goods from around the world. Given the port's massive cargo handling volume, regulating truck traffic is crucial to ensuring smooth supply chains and preventing cargo congestion. This decision is expected to contribute to:
- Raising the level of road safety by ensuring that trucks are technically and legally compliant.
- Promoting fair competition among transport companies that comply with regulations.
- Accelerating clearance and handling processes within the port by dealing with reliable and officially registered carriers.
In closing its circular, the Authority called on all establishments working on projects and operational contracts to quickly rectify their situations and verify the availability of the official operating cards for trucks when contracting with carriers to avoid disrupting their work or incurring unjustified financial losses.
