Clarify something for me please re: "running" a port

[Seen the light]

What does that entail exactly? Every article or editorial I've read about the UAE port deal has made reference to this company "running" the ports, but doesn't outline in detail what that means. What exactly would they get control of?

[Ron Mexico]

1. delete

[MADem]

2. Everything!!!

They direct the movement of ships, the offloading of cargo, oversee the security at the port (with help from other agencies), the cranes, the ramps, inspection of containers (with help from designated agencies), manage staffing, the whole nine yards. They would also be responsible for maintaining and upgrading technology to make the ports more efficient, as well as maintenance of infrastructure (dredging harbors, maintaining seawalls, berths and anchorages, as well as buildings, warehouses, and piers). It's a bigass job...

[FSogol]

3. Nah, it means they take 10-15% off the top and contract

the operation out to a subcontractor who is most likely an American firm.

[MADem]

4. Sure, they could, but they retain responsibility and ultimate control

And I don't know much about this company--it could be that they want to install systems that are compatible with their operations at other locations, and perhaps are more automated than the methodologies currently in use.

It is unlikely at this early stage that ANYTHING will change--the new management company will simply assume the existing contracts that are already in place. It's what happens down the road, as technologies evolve and improve, that will make this ownership shift "interesting."