DP World Seeks Return to US Container Operations at Texas Port

DP World has entered into an exclusive negotiation agreement for a long-term lease to develop and operate a container terminal at the Port of Corpus Christi, Texas. This move signifies a potential return to U.S. container operations for the Dubai-based company, following a controversial deal in 2006 where public and political pressure led them to divest operations at several U.S. ports, including those managed by P&O Ports North America. The current agreement aims to expand containerized cargo capabilities at one of the United States' busiest ports, positioning Corpus Christi to capture new trade flows and support economic growth by strengthening supply chain connectivity across the Gulf Coast.

Under the proposed development, DP World would design, build, and operate the new container terminal. Brian Enright, CEO of DP World in the Americas, emphasized the importance of the U.S. Gulf Coast as a trade corridor and the opportunity to expand container capacity and create new pathways for American businesses to access global markets. Kent Britton, CEO of the Port of Corpus Christi, highlighted that the recent completion of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project in June 2025 has unlocked potential for existing port customers and spurred cargo diversification, making this negotiation an important step in the Port's long-term strategy.

The exclusive negotiation period will focus on terminal design, capacity planning, and investment structure. If finalized, this project would be DP World’s first container terminal development on the U.S. Gulf Coast. The Port of Corpus Christi is already a major gateway for U.S. energy, agricultural, and industrial exports, consistently ranking among the nation’s largest ports by total tonnage. The introduction of container capabilities through this partnership would further diversify cargo operations and create new opportunities for regional businesses in South Texas. DP World has also committed to working with local labor and workforce partners to support terminal operations and long-term job creation.