The agreement will be carried out through a joint venture established by Hyundai Rotem and ONCF. As part of the maintenance deal, Hyundai Rotem will provide spare parts required for servicing and repair operations, operate a dedicated helpdesk, and deliver technology support for heavy maintenance activities. Heavy maintenance encompasses extensive inspection procedures, testing, repairs, and component replacement work designed to maintain train performance while ensuring operational safety.

This latest contract follows a much larger agreement concluded in February 2025. At that time, Hyundai Rotem, participating as part of the K-Railway One Team consortium, secured a KRW 2.2 trillion ($1.5 billion) order from ONCF to manufacture 440 double-decker electric multiple units. The trains are designed to operate at speeds of 160 km/h and are intended to link Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, with other key urban centers across the country. The newly signed maintenance deal expands Hyundai Rotem’s role beyond train manufacturing, extending South Korea’s participation in Morocco’s railway sector into long-term operational and technical support.

Hyundai Rotem stated that it expects the agreement to contribute to the enhancement of public transportation in Morocco while also supporting its ambitions in the wider African railway market. Spare parts needed under the program will be sourced from more than 200 small and mid-sized Korean companies that serve as Hyundai Rotem’s domestic partners. The company said this structure is expected to encourage mutual growth between Korea’s rail industry and Morocco’s railway sector.

“We will work to contribute to the development of local rail infrastructure and the strengthening of public transport through this contract with the ONCF,” a Hyundai Rotem official stated.

Morocco continues to invest significantly in expanding its conventional rail network ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The country remains the only nation in Africa operating a high-speed rail service, with the Al Boraq line connecting Tangier and Casablanca since its launch in 2018.

These initiatives represent one of the most substantial Egypt rail modernization endeavors. They align with the national development framework, Egypt Vision 2030, by reinforcing the country’s logistical capabilities and improving the connections between newly developed dry ports, industrial areas, and major seaports. This strategic upgrade of Egypt’s rail infrastructure is designed to foster greater economic integration and efficiency.

Enhancing Connectivity and Efficiency on Key Rail Lines

The 6th of October–Alexandria corridor, a project valued at €550 million with Alstom’s portion at approximately €240 million, will be executed across three major phases. This segment will see comprehensive modernization including the implementation of next-generation digital railway systems, updated telecommunications infrastructure, reinforced power supply systems, and extensive civil and track rehabilitation. These improvements are anticipated to significantly boost safety, increase operational capacity, enhance reliability, and reduce travel times across the entire route by nearly 80 minutes.

Similarly, the Belbes–10th of Ramadan (B10) project, with a total value of about €140 million and Alstom’s share at approximately €60 million, will incorporate the same advanced railway technologies and modernization scope. This segment is particularly important for improving connectivity to one of Egypt’s largest industrial hubs, thereby strengthening freight operations and supporting industrial expansion along the eastern logistics corridor.

Strengthening National Logistics and Trade Flows

By transforming freight transport between the 6th of October Dry Port and the Alexandria Seaport, and by enhancing rail links to the 10th of Ramadan industrial zone, these projects are poised to strengthen the connections between Egypt’s primary logistics hubs and its maritime gateways. Such developments are expected to help alleviate supply chain bottlenecks, promote sustainable freight transport solutions, and ultimately bolster both national and regional trade volumes.

Alstom’s expectations regarding the modernization contracts

Commenting on the major Egypt rail modernization deals, Martin Vaujour, President of Alstom’s Africa, Middle East and Central Asia (AMECA) region, said, “The Africa, Middle East and Central Asia region has never been more committed to building smarter, more resilient rail networks, and Alstom is at the center of that transformation. These contracts demonstrate our capacity to deliver large-scale, complex signalling programmes, and our determination to be a long-term partner for its most critical mobility infrastructure.”

Ramy Salah, Managing Director of Alstom Egypt, said,”Our partnership with Egyptian National Railways, driven by world-class expertise and Egyptian talents, is creating vital transport corridors that drive economic growth, connect key industrial and logistics centres, and unlock new opportunities for future generations.”

Project responsibilities of the consortium members

As the consortium leader, Alstom will oversee all aspects of the project lifecycle, from engineering and design to supply, testing, and commissioning of the new digital railway systems. This comprehensive approach includes the integration of ETCS Level 1 signalling, modern telecommunications, robust power infrastructure, and advanced operations control systems, facilitating real-time network management.

Under the Egypt rail modernization agreements, Rowad Modern Engineering and Concrete Plus will be responsible for the construction of technical buildings, MEP works, and the complete range of civil and track upgrades, ensuring the establishment of resilient and future-ready rail infrastructure.

A notable aspect of these projects is their strong support for national industry development, with approximately 50% local content expected to be achieved through the utilization of Egyptian engineering talent and local sourcing. This commitment to local content is a testament to Alstom Egypt’s long-standing presence and investment in the region.

The report, titled ‘Enabling Nuclear-Powered Feeder Ships: A Joint Development Project on Port Call Feasibility and Regulatory Pathways’, advocates for the inclusion of maritime nuclear propulsion in broader discussions concerning shipping decarbonization, energy resilience, and long-term industrial competitiveness. By using the Port of Rotterdam as a case study, the project aimed to understand how novel energy and shipping technologies might integrate with established port safety frameworks, operational procedures, and regulatory processes.

“Ports need to understand how emerging energy and shipping technologies may interact with future port operations and industrial systems,” said René de Vries, Harbour Master of the Port of Rotterdam.

“This study represents an initial case-study assessment intended to better understand the regulatory, operational and safety considerations associated with nuclear-powered commercial shipping within a European port context,” he added.

The findings indicate that the established risk-based safety frameworks, already familiar to European ports, could serve as a credible structure. This is contingent upon the systematic incorporation of nuclear-specific safety, security, and operational aspects, supported by relevant national and international guidelines. The study highlights that the primary hurdles for future maritime nuclear propulsion are likely to revolve around aligning regulations, establishing governance, integrating nuclear and maritime safety regimes, and ensuring public and institutional readiness. For instance, existing International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations for nuclear-powered ships, originating from an earlier period, would require updating to support any future pathway for civilian commercial nuclear propulsion.

Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head of Fleet Technology at A.P. Moller – Maersk, said, “Shipping’s long-term energy transition will require the consideration of multiple fuel and technology pathways. Civil commercial nuclear propulsion presents a number of significant challenges, including safety, waste management, regulatory alignment and public acceptance across regions.”

“This study does not represent a decision to pursue nuclear propulsion, but contributes to further understanding of what would be required for ports and authorities to assess such vessels in a structured and responsible way. We continue to monitor and assess this technology alongside other low-emission solutions,” he added.

Commenting on the project, Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer, Transport for Wales said: “Cardiff Crossrail is an exciting step forward for the South Wales Metro, helping us make it easier for people to move around the city and reach the opportunities that matter to them.

“Siemens Mobility has already been a big part of transforming the Core Valley Lines, so we’re pleased to continue working together as we bring better, greener and more reliable transport to communities across Cardiff and beyond,” he added.

The inaugural trial freight train service is slated to depart from Guangzhou with an anticipated arrival in Türkiye in July 2026. The overarching objective of this strategic partnership is to cultivate a robust logistics corridor. This corridor will initially link China’s influential Guangdong province with Türkiye, with subsequent extensions planned to encompass Europe, the Middle East, the United Kingdom, and Africa, aligning with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Under the terms of this agreement, these services are positioned to be the first of their kind on this specific line, offering scheduled block train services twice a week. The commitment to running on fixed days and times is anticipated to provide exporters with significantly more predictable transit schedules and a stable, reliable transport capacity, enhancing the efficiency of international trade.

Furthermore, the collaborating entities have outlined plans to establish an integrated transportation network. This network will be built upon the foundation of standardized routes, meticulously planned transit timetables, and consistent pricing structures, aiming for a streamlined and predictable experience for all stakeholders. The companies will also concentrate their efforts on enhancing operational coordination within the broader China-Europe Railway Express network. This includes crucial aspects such as advanced cargo tracking systems, efficient customs procedures, and optimized service scheduling, ensuring a seamless flow of goods.

The freight train service agreement also champions closer coordination of logistics infrastructure across Türkiye. This includes enhanced integration with the nation’s free zones and industrial areas, with the explicit goal of effectively supporting and accommodating the escalating trade volumes anticipated along this critical route. This strategic deal not only integrates Guangzhou into Pasifik ISR’s extensive network but is also projected to significantly increase freight volumes traversing the Middle Corridor. The Middle Corridor is an increasingly important trade route that effectively links China and Europe by passing through Central Asia, the Caspian region, and Türkiye.

Guangdong province, the home of Guangzhou, represents China’s largest provincial economy and stands as one of the country’s foremost manufacturing and export hubs. This strategic positioning makes it a critical source of cargo for rail shipments destined for international markets. Pasifik ISR is an integral part of the Pasifik Eurasia logistics group, a company recognized for its specialization in rail-based freight transportation between Asia and Europe. The group also extends its expertise to encompass multimodal logistics services across road, sea, and air transport, offering comprehensive solutions.

The joint venture is tasked with the complete execution of civil and railway works for the 22.7-kilometer single-track railway. This comprehensive undertaking includes the development of robust civil foundations, extensive earthworks, and the installation of track infrastructure. A key element of the Dammam 2nd Industrial City rail link project involves the construction of significant structural components, such as a 265-meter bridge spanning Highway HW615 and a 118-meter bridge designed to cross the Aramco Pipeline Corridor. Furthermore, the scope encompasses the integration of signalling and telecommunication systems, alongside all necessary works for the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to ensure seamless integration of the new rail line into the existing network. This Dammam 2nd Industrial City rail link project deal is poised to be an important milestone in the ongoing expansion of Saudi Arabia’s rail network.

The Dammam 2nd Industrial City rail link project aligns directly with national objectives to enhance freight mobility, foster industrial integration, and boost logistical efficiency. These goals are integral to Saudi Arabia’s long-term transportation and infrastructure expansion plans. The railway construction is expected to contribute substantially to the region’s economic development.

This Dammam 2nd Industrial City rail link project adds to Hassan Allam Holding’s robust and growing portfolio of major transport and mobility developments across the region. The company is actively involved in several other strategic transit systems, including Cairo Metro Line 4 and the Alexandria Raml Tram in Egypt, the monorail serving Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, and the Hafeet Rail connecting Oman and the United Arab Emirates. These diverse projects underscore the company’s proficiency in delivering complex, multi-disciplinary rail and mobility infrastructure and highlight its continuing commitment to improving regional connectivity and supporting enduring economic integration.

In addition, the framework includes expanded codeshare arrangements and revenue-sharing initiatives. Air Canada has identified the region as a key area for growth as it continues to increase capacity into South America and compete for connecting traffic through its Canadian hubs. Any final agreement remains subject to documentation and regulatory approval.

The planned commercial partnership builds upon existing relationships already in place between the airlines. These include current codeshare agreements, Air Canada’s Star Alliance relationship with Avianca, and its longer-standing collaboration with GOL. Under the proposal, the carriers intend to coordinate sales and distribution activities while also aligning airport services, baggage policies and disruption handling procedures. The arrangement would further expand reciprocal benefits across the Aeroplan, LifeMiles and Smiles loyalty programmes, providing additional opportunities for frequent travellers. 

The companies also identified potential for closer cargo cooperation as part of the commercial partnership, supporting trade flows throughout the region. Air Canada has recently expanded services to Lima, Santiago and Rio de Janeiro and is planning additional growth in Quito.

“The Canada-South America market is accelerating, and we are investing to capture this momentum,” said Mary-Jane Lorette, vice-president, revenue management, partnerships and international affairs at Air Canada.

Commenting on the agreement, Angus Clarke, chief commercial officer at Abra, said: “This milestone agreement with Air Canada reinforces our ambition to redefine connectivity across the Americas and beyond.” The proposed commercial partnership marks a significant development in the companies’ efforts to expand cooperation and strengthen their presence across the Americas.

Central to the concept is an offshore floating platform powered by molten salt reactor (MSR) technology. The platform would produce electricity for multiple purposes, including supplying power to ships within the network and supporting green fuel production.

According to Jiangnan Shipyard, the nuclear floating logistics hub forms part of a potential zero-emission ocean container logistics ecosystem aimed at advancing the long-term decarbonisation of international shipping. The envisioned system would bring together nuclear-powered deepsea containerships, offshore container transfer terminals, pure-electric feeder vessels and green-fuel production facilities. Under the proposed arrangement, large nuclear-powered boxships would undertake long-haul voyages, while offshore transhipment hubs would distribute cargo through smaller feeder vessels powered by electricity or alternative fuels such as ammonia.

In addition to nuclear energy generation, the floating platform would incorporate renewable energy assets including solar panels and wind turbines. The design also includes hydrogen production and green-fuel manufacturing capabilities, reinforcing the role of the nuclear floating logistics hub as a multi-purpose maritime energy centre.

The latest proposal follows Jiangnan’s presentation of a 24,000 teu nuclear-powered containership design at Marintec China in 2023. That vessel concept received approval in principle from classification society DNV and was based on fourth-generation molten salt reactor technology. Earlier this year, the shipbuilder further strengthened its position in the nuclear sector by obtaining manufacturing and installation licences from China’s nuclear safety authorities covering equipment for small floating reactors and related nuclear systems.

The new concept indicates that Jiangnan views nuclear power as extending beyond ship propulsion and into the wider development of maritime energy infrastructure. Through the nuclear floating logistics hub, the company is positioning nuclear technology as a potential enabler for shipping operations, port activities and fuel production.

Although interest in nuclear propulsion continues to grow as the industry pursues long-term decarbonisation goals, challenges remain concerning regulation, international conventions, port access, public acceptance and operational oversight. While the floating nuclear terminal remains at the concept stage, the proposal highlights how leading Chinese shipbuilders are examining possibilities beyond alternative fuels and considering what a fully integrated zero-carbon maritime supply chain could look like in the decades ahead.

The workshop was jointly led by Kazakh Deputy Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev and EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan Aleska Simkic. This gathering preceded a significant high-level meeting on the Trans-Caspian transport route scheduled for June 23, 2026, designed to broaden collaborative efforts among nations positioned along this strategic corridor.

Simkic emphasized the European Union’s substantial commitment to the corridor’s development through multiple channels. The EU’s €30 million Trans-Caspian Transport Support Programme supports critical infrastructure improvements, including the modernization of Port of Aktau facilities and comprehensive upgrades to the Beyneu–Sekseul road network. Furthermore, the initiative facilitates the harmonization and digitalization of cross-border procedures to streamline operations across the region.

Working alongside EU financial institutions, businesses, EU member states, and Central Asian partners, these collaborative efforts have yielded measurable progress in making the corridor faster, more dependable, and increasingly efficient for trade and transport operations.

Kazakhstan serves as a critical Eurasian transport hub, positioning itself at the heart of regional connectivity. Over the past several years, cargo volumes traveling along the route have expanded dramatically, surpassing a 3.5-fold increase. This remarkable growth has been accompanied by substantial reductions in transit time between China and Europe, achievements made possible through strategic infrastructure projects and continuous improvements in transport logistics processes.

Since 2024, the financial commitment to corridor development has intensified, with the European Union and international financial institutions collectively allocating approximately €2.5 billion specifically designated for projects throughout the region. This substantial investment demonstrates the strategic priority placed on strengthening this crucial transport artery.

During the workshop, participating stakeholders engaged in detailed discussions regarding multiple dimensions of corridor enhancement. Key agenda items included modernization plans for both Port of Aktau and Port of Kuryk, advancement of road, rail, and logistics infrastructure along primary TITR corridors, strategies for mobilizing private sector investment, and additional initiatives aimed at boosting corridor efficiency and capacity.

As the workshop concluded, all participants renewed their commitment to sustained cooperation across several critical areas. These commitments encompassed infrastructure development, digital transformation initiatives, regulatory improvements, and the pursuit of new investment projects. The collective resolve centers on further strengthening the position of the Trans-Caspian Transport Route as one of Eurasia’s most vital trade and transport arteries.

The collaboration prioritizes maritime decarbonization through concrete operational measures. Both parties will work toward expanding alternative marine fuel solutions, with specific emphasis on bio-liquefied natural gas technologies. This focus addresses the shipping industry’s critical need to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining operational viability. The maritime digitization and decarbonization agreement also includes provisions for exploring new shipping routes and services that enhance regional and global connectivity.

Digital transformation represents a central pillar of this maritime digitization and decarbonization agreement. This component focuses on implementing advanced technologies to improve vessel arrivals and port operations.

Human capital development forms an essential component of the collaboration. The shipping company will support internship and scholarship opportunities through Singapore Maritime Foundation’s Maritime Outreach Network (MaritimeONE) platform, which brings together commercial operators, government agencies, and educational institutions. This tripartite approach aims to address critical talent gaps in the maritime sector and cultivate the next generation of maritime professionals.

Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA, highlighted this partnership as a strong collaboration between MPA and MSC in driving sustainability and digitalization in the maritime sector.

“By working together on decarbonization, operational efficiency and talent development, we aim to strengthen Maritime Singapore’s position as a trusted and future-ready global maritime hub,” he added.

Soren Toft, Chief Executive Officer of MSC, admitted that Singapore is a strategically important hub for the company and a key gateway to the broader Asia region.

“MSC and Singapore are closely aligned on the priorities shaping the future of global shipping, and we look forward to deepening this partnership to drive the continued growth and resilience of the maritime industry,” he added.