DP World in Exclusive Talks to Revive U.S. Port Operations at Texas’ Corpus Christi

Dubai-based logistics giant DP World has entered exclusive negotiations to lease and develop a new container terminal at the Port of Corpus Christi in Texas, marking its first potential return to U.S. port operations in 20 years. The company last operated in the U.S. in 2006 before exiting amid security concerns raised by American lawmakers over ties between the United Arab Emirates and the September 11 attacks. DP World confirmed on June 16 that it is in long-term lease talks to design and build the facility, which would expand Gulf Coast container capacity and strengthen supply chain links for U.S. trade. The move underscores the company’s push to capitalize on surging demand for port infrastructure across Texas. “The U.S. Gulf Coast is one of the nation’s most important trade and economic corridors, and demand for efficient, resilient port infrastructure continues to grow,” said Brian Enright, CEO of DP World Americas, in a press release. Corpus Christi is one of the largest U.S. ports by tonnage, handling energy, chemicals, agricultural commodities, and bulk cargo. While DP World already operates logistics facilities in Pennsylvania and North Carolina and uses Vancouver as its primary U.S. cargo entry point via rail, the Corpus Christi terminal would provide direct container gateway access. The company emphasized the project’s role in capturing new trade flows and supporting economic growth as Texas port demand rises.