It gives me great pleasure to announce that Lucky Cement Limited, the largest producer and exporter of cement has achieved another milestone by setting up an export oriented Loose Cement Storage and Loading Terminal at berth 25, West Wharf Karachi with the patronage of Karachi Port Trust (KPT).
This state-of-the art terminal is the latest technology based storage and loading facility which is first of its kind in the South East Asia and Middle East Region.
There was an immense need for the development of infrastructure for the export of cement which we were lacking. Lucky Cement initiated this infrastructure development on self finance basis to capture the untapped export market of loose cement.In the First phase, Lucky Cement started loose cement export in February 2007 through its own fleet of 75 bulkers connected directly with ship loader for loading loose cement into sea going vessels.
In the Second phase, storage and loading terminal has been developed for further enhancing export of loose cement from the country. This terminal will open a new corridor for exports of loose cement from the country as 80% of international cement trade is in loose form. This terminal will provide quick turnaround of the sea going vessels by reducing the waiting and loading time.
The construction of this Storage and Loading Terminal is a landmark achievement which enables the Company to enter into a new Horizon of cement export from the country. This terminal would also provide an unmatched competitive advantage over our peers.
I take this opportunity to thank Karachi Port Trust management for their full support and co-operation for making this project a success. I also express my appreciation to the contractors who have worked on this project, all the Company's workers, staff and executives for their dedication and efforts for the completion of this project.