ICTSI South Pacific is investing K8.1 million in new equipment at Lae’s port facilities to increase cargo-handling capacity as vessel calls rise this year.

The investment supports operations at the Lae Tidal Basin’s overflow berth and Lae Main Wharf, which have been activated to handle increased vessel traffic and cargo volumes.

The new equipment includes one reach stacker, two empty container handlers and five terminal trucks and trailers.

The equipment will complement a mobile harbor crane already operating at Lae Main Wharf.

ICTSI South Pacific Chief Executive Officer Robert Maxwell said the investment would help the company respond to growing demand while maintaining its operations.

“These investments strengthen our ability to respond to growing demand while maintaining safe, efficient and reliable operations,” Maxwell said.

“By adding capacity and improving how we handle cargo, we can better serve our customers as trade activity continues to grow.”

The company also plans to add rubber-tired gantry cranes at South Pacific International Container Terminal and Motukea International Terminal.

The cranes are expected to increase container storage density and improve truck turnaround times at the terminals.

ICTSI South Pacific also plans to install a gate camera system to record the condition and status of containers as they enter and leave the terminals.

The company said the investments are aimed at improving capacity, efficiency and reliability as trade activity increases in Papua New Guinea.