In 2023, national ports in Mozambique experienced a significant uptick in traffic, handling over 63,000 tonnes of goods, marking a 12.3% increase from the 56,100 tonnes managed in 2022.
The Port of Maputo, the country’s largest, witnessed the most substantial growth, handling more than 31,200 tonnes, a notable 16.7% surge compared to 2022.
Following closely behind were Nacala-a-Velha with 13,800 tonnes, the Port of Beira with 13,600 tonnes, and Nacala with 3,000 tonnes, as per the 2023 budget execution report.
This impressive performance is attributed to heightened activity in fuel, wheat, and fertilizer handling, as well as increased cargo diversion from other ports.
Secondary ports also contributed to this growth, with Topuito handling around 1,000 tonnes, Pemba managing 269.5 tonnes, and Quelimane handling 17.3 tonnes.
In February, the government announced the extension of the Port of Maputo’s concession for 25 years, projecting economic gains exceeding 8 billion dollars.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, Amilton Alissone, highlighted the substantial benefits of this concession extension, including significant revenue generation through rents, dividends, and direct taxes.
Alissone also emphasized that the infrastructure developments associated with the concession extension would lead to the creation of over 1,000 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs, contributing significantly to Mozambique’s socio-economic advancement.
