Tender for the A22 without pre-emption rights
The Italian Ministry of Transport has decided to conclude the procedure for awarding the new concession for the A22 motorway, confirming the continuation of the tender launched on 31 December 2024 but without granting pre-emption rights to the original proposer. According to the ministry, the outcome of the first phase shows a sufficient number of admitted bids to ensure effective competition, considered essential for safeguarding the public interest. The appointed commission has assessed the admissibility of the submitted proposals, defining the group of participants that will move on to the next stage. The proposal underlying the procedure has been submitted to CIPESS (Interministerial Committee for Economic Planning and Sustainable Development) for the required prior approval, a step that will define the economic and operational terms of the concession. Once approval is obtained, invitations to submit binding offers will be issued. This will be followed by a comparative evaluation by the commission, which will be tasked with identifying the final concessionaire. The ministry’s operational objective is to complete the procedure by the end of the current year. The decision to exclude pre-emption rights alters the competitive framework of the tender, reinforcing the principle of open competition among operators. The measure forms part of broader policies to review motorway concessions.
New MSC terminal in Lagos
Mediterranean Shipping Company has signed a 45-year concession agreement with Nigerdock to develop a container terminal at Snake Island port in Lagos. The initiative is part of a $1 billion investment plan aimed at strengthening infrastructure and logistics in Nigeria. An engineering, procurement and construction contract has also been finalised with ITB Nigeria and DEME Group. The terminal will feature a 910-metre quay, designed to operate with ship-to-shore cranes and mobile harbour cranes, serving both ocean-going vessels and barges. The project provides for an initial dredging depth of 16.5 metres, in line with the existing navigation channel. The storage area will cover 30 hectares, with scope for expansion and the use of hybrid rubber-tyred gantry cranes. The terminal configuration is scalable to a final depth of 18 metres, allowing it to accommodate higher-capacity vessels. The development strengthens Snake Island port’s positioning as an international logistics hub.
Recycled plastic at Hong Kong cargo city
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited has become the first air cargo terminal in the world to introduce the use of plastic sheets made entirely from recycled material within a closed-loop system. The company, described as Hong Kong’s largest independent cargo handler, is deploying these materials in cargo operations with immediate effect. The process began in 2022 with the adoption of plastic sheets containing between 30% and 50% recycled material. In collaboration with the Nano and Advanced Materials Institute, Hactl has developed a solution made entirely from recycled plastic derived from post-consumer waste generated by the terminal itself. The distinguishing feature of the project is the closed-loop system, as the material originates from internal waste and is reintroduced into operations as a new support for air cargo. According to Hactl, the solution has the potential to be extended to other industry players. The company links the initiative to reducing the use of virgin plastic and increasing recycling rates in airport logistics. Amy Lam, Hactl’s Head of Sustainability, explains that the new material accelerates the transition towards a circular economy, following an initial phase already based on 30% to 50% recycled content. She adds that a higher recycled content in plastic sheets used to wrap air cargo pallets can help reduce the sector’s carbon footprint. In the same statement, Hactl also states that this approach could prevent thousands of tonnes of non-biodegradable plastic from being sent to landfill.
New logistics hub in Pomezia
Logicor and Kryalos Sgr have signed an agreement with Techbau to develop a new logistics hub in Pomezia, strengthening their presence in the Rome area. The deal involves a forward purchase agreement for a brownfield site of more than 95,000 square metres, acquired through the Mazer fund managed by Kryalos Sgr. The project will lead to the construction of a logistics facility of around 38,000 square metres. The site, located about 16 km from Rome, is described as strategic for logistics space demand. The complex will be developed by Techbau as EPC contractor, with a target of BREEAM Excellent certification. The project includes a 3,500 kWp photovoltaic system, 96 car parking spaces, 20 heavy vehicle bays and 36 loading docks. The design features are focused on efficient flows and goods handling. Completion is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027. Logicor thus consolidates its local presence, which already includes 210,000 square metres in operation and more than 100,000 square metres under development in the area.
