Noatum Maritime, a core unit of logistics and maritime services provider Noatum, an AD Ports Group Company, opened its first office in Türkiye.

The launch, led by Noatum Maritime, bolsters the company’s reach in key regional markets and aligns with AD Ports Group’s vision for global expansion, particularly in areas with strong trade ties to the United Arab Emirates. Türkiye boasts established connections to the UAE and presents promising opportunities for further growth.

Ömür Kuyucuoglu will head the new Turkish entity, operating primarily as a port and liner agency. The office will cater to a diverse clientele, including ship owners, operators, charterers, and managers, by offering a comprehensive suite of maritime agency services.

Leveraging local expertise and synergies within the AD Ports Group and Noatum ecosystems, the Istanbul and Izmir-based offices will provide integrated services at every stage of maritime operations. This expansion builds upon Noatum’s existing footprint in the region, complementing the services offered by Noatum Logistics’ East Europe, Türkiye & CIS office, also located in Istanbul.

The move strengthens Noatum’s position as a leading maritime agency and logistics provider in the Mediterranean region, offering clients a wider range of services and access to strategic markets.

“The establishment of our Türkiye office enables Noatum Maritime to expand its geographical reach, following our growth strategy and fostering deeper engagement with our existing clients,” Terry Gidlow, Chief Executive Officer, Noatum Maritime, Noatum, Logistics Cluster, AD Ports Group, said. “The office will seamlessly integrate into the broader Noatum ecosystem, aiming to deliver integrated maritime agency services better, faster and more cost-efficiently, while also attracting new customers in Türkiye and the East Mediterranean region. Ultimately, our aim is to serve the market as a Top-5 global maritime service provider.”

Noatum Maritime’s Turkish expansion coincides with a period of intensifying trade ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Türkiye, bolstered by the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in March 2023.

This landmark agreement, which came into effect in September 2023, aims to streamline bilateral trade and investment. Key measures include the elimination or reduction of tariffs and trade barriers, the establishment of a free trade area, and enhanced market access for UAE companies and service providers, including those in the maritime sector.

Türkiye’s maritime trade sector is a powerhouse, with seaborne commerce accounting for the vast majority of its trade activity. In 2023 alone, the country witnessed import and export flows valued at $362 billion and $259 billion, respectively. The sector is further characterised by burgeoning cargo volumes and a significant rise in fleet capacity. Notably, cabotage transportation – the movement of goods within Turkish territorial waters – has surged by 48 per cent between 2012 and 2022. This sustained growth translates into a rising demand for high-quality shipping services, presenting a compelling business opportunity for Noatum Maritime.

By establishing a presence in Türkiye, Noatum Maritime is strategically positioned to capitalize on this flourishing maritime trade environment and cater to the growing needs of clients in the region.