International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has announced the investment in and the establishment of its first terminal in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  “We have been following the positive economic developments in DRC closely and are proud that we can take part in building the needed infrastructure for the future growth and prosperity of the country,” comments Enrique K. Razon Jr, ICTSI chairman and president. ICTSI Congo DR will be located on the riverbank of the Congo River in Matadi, which is already today the main entry point for containers into DRC serving the greater region and the Kinshasa market. The facility will, in Phase 1, be able to handle 120,000 TEU and 350,000 mts.  The capacity and berth length can, subject to demand, be doubled in Phase 2. Phase 1 will consist of two berths with a total length of 350 meters, which will be servicing shipping lines, importers and exporters with its modern infrastructure, state of the art equipment and highly skilled staff, matching international standards. It is estimated that the total capital expenditure of the project for Phase 1 will be approximately US$100 million. ICTSI Congo DR is a joint venture owned by ICTSI Group 60 percent and Simobile S.P.R.L. 40 percent. “We are looking forward to bringing  new and improved service to this fast growing economy.  We believe we can make a positive impact and decrease total transportation time and cost through this modern and efficient facility,” states Jens O. Floe, ICTSI Senior Vice President responsible for the Africa Region. The facility is expected to commence operation in 2015.