Beirut Port container traffic surges nearly 39% in July 2025, highest since 2019
This is the highest figure recorded by the port in terms of container terminal activity (operated by CMA CGM) since 2019, reflecting a growing momentum in operational performance and confirming the port's return as a key facility on the maritime transport map of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The authority noted that this progress results from several cumulative factors, most notably improved operational infrastructure, smooth service flow, and the renewed confidence of shipping companies that have started to reintegrate Beirut Port into their regular shipping routes.
The port management reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to improve the work environment and developing services to sustain this positive performance.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
LBCI
4 hours ago
- LBCI
Lebanon's president urges $1 billion a year: Can this funding finally secure the army and stabilize the south?
Report by Nada Andraos, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian While everything President Joseph Aoun outlined in his recent speech is important and cannot be separated in terms of implementation, the core of his message centered on proposed solutions—chief among them, securing $1 billion in annual funding for the Lebanese Army over the next ten years. Sources familiar with the matter said that although Aoun presented his points gradually, he considers them equally urgent. They noted that the weapons issue remains the key priority. His call for $1 billion in funding stems from his experience as a former army commander and his understanding of what the military requires to fulfill its full mission. According to information obtained by LBCI, the army support plan was first initiated during Aoun's tenure as commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces and has since continued to develop, aiming to reinforce the army's deployment in the south in line with the ceasefire agreement. The requested annual funding is primarily intended to support the army's presence in the south. It would cover salaries for military personnel, the costs of recruiting new troops, and logistical needs related to deployment, including equipment and facilities. The funds would also support special arrangements specific to the army's operational requirements, which are not publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of its work. According to the army's current plan, troop numbers in the south are expected to reach 10,000 by this fall, following the recruitment of 4,500 additional soldiers. President Aoun, aware that placing all weapons in the hands of the army necessitates the military being adequately armed to protect Lebanon's territory and security, urged those calling for a state monopoly on arms to honor their commitment to strengthening the army since the ceasefire agreement took effect.
LBCI
4 hours ago
- LBCI
Beauty on a budget: Why salons in Lebanon are a top stop for returning expats
Report by Lea Fayad, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian When Lebanese expatriate women arrive in Lebanon, one of the first things many of them do is visit a beauty salon. From blow-dries to eyebrow shaping, these routine services are significantly cheaper compared to prices abroad. According to the numbers, the basic beauty services done weekly include a manicure and pedicure, which cost around $20; a blow-dry, around $10; and eyebrow shaping, approximately $5. In total, customers could pay about $35 at a standard salon in Lebanon. The same services in Dubai, for example, would cost around $100: a manicure and pedicure about $45, a blow-dry between $35 and $40, and eyebrow shaping between $15 and $20. The total comes to approximately $95 to $105. In Paris, prices are even higher. A manicure and pedicure cost around $50, a blow-dry $40, and eyebrow shaping $15, bringing the total to about $105 to $120. In Canada, prices are even steeper. A manicure and pedicure range from $50 to $60, a blow-dry from $35 to $45, and eyebrow shaping from $15 to $25, with a total cost of roughly $100 to $130. So why are beauty service prices in Lebanon lower than in many other countries? The main reason is lower operating costs—ranging from employee wages to rent and the wide availability of products. In addition, the large number of salons across the country creates strong competition, which helps keep prices affordable. In Lebanon, the beauty industry is not just about luxury or changing one's look. It's part of the country's tourism sector—specifically, beauty tourism. While other countries, such as Turkey, are also competing in this field, Lebanon remains a key destination. So if you're heading to Lebanon, don't forget to book your appointment—before salons are fully booked!
LBCI
4 hours ago
- LBCI
As fuel tax stalls, Lebanon hunts for new ways to pay military and security personnel
Report by Yazbek Wehbe, English adaptation by Akram Chehayeb Before August 15, and possibly within a few days, Lebanon's Ministry of Finance will pay the approved grant for July to both active and retired military and security personnel, once it receives the payroll lists from the army command and security institutions. This grant, which amounts to approximately $30 million per month, was funded through the fuel tax approved by the government before the State Shura Council suspended its implementation a month after its approval. An active-duty soldier will receive 14 million Lebanese lira, while a retiree will receive 12 million. The number of active military personnel stands at 120,000, with retirees totaling around 82,000. The State Shura Council's decision canceled the tax, but the increase was not canceled. Therefore, the Ministry of Finance is facing a challenge in terms of securing alternative sources of funding to continue paying, and here lies the issue. The Ministry of Finance has pledged not to spend a single lira without guaranteed revenue. The ministry is committed to following the International Monetary Fund's advice, fearing that any wrong decision could jeopardize the signing of an agreement with the IMF. But what funding sources are available? Some propose increasing a specific tax on gasoline only, excluding diesel, especially since gasoline is not used by everyone. This tax hike does not require approval from parliament, but some MPs might oppose the measure. Alternative solutions include improving tax collection, encouraging tax compliance, and boosting revenue from customs and coastal property, which could provide alternative funding sources. The most important thing is to move away from relying on consumption taxes and instead adopt permanent and sustainable financing plans.
