The Chinese firm won a $48 million bid to expand the port back in 2004 but has not commenced works over disputes with the project consultant.

However,the dispute was settled earlier this year, Ahmad Tamer, the Port’s general manager said, and consequently a contract was signed between the Port Authority and the Chinese firm on November 12.

Development work will be completed in a year and a half while Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners Sal) will act as the project consultant, Tamer said.

CHEC’s scope of work will include the construction of a 600 meter long harbor to expand the port’s capacity.