Mozambique’s ports saw a significant uptick in cargo handling in 2023, totaling over 63,000 tons, marking a notable 12.3% increase compared to the previous year. According to data obtained by Lusa, nearly half of this traffic flowed through the port of Maputo.
The report from the Ministry of Economy and Finance highlighted the contrasting performances of various ports.
Maputo, the country’s largest port, handled more than 31.2 thousand tons of goods, a notable 16.7% increase over 2022.
Similarly, Nacala-Velha saw a 20.3% surge, handling 13.8 thousand tons, while Nacala managed 3,000 tons, reflecting a 14.9% rise.
This robust performance in key ports was attributed to increased handling of fuel, wheat, and fertilizers, along with heightened demand and cargo diversions from other ports. Conversely, reduced fuel and magnetite handling impacted the movement in the port of Beira.
Secondary ports also experienced varied performances. Notably, Topuito and Pemba saw declines in tonnage, while Quelimane witnessed a substantial 59.9% increase.
In a significant development, the Mozambican government extended the concession of the Maputo port for 25 years, expecting substantial economic gains exceeding US$8 billion.
This extension is anticipated to create over 1,000 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs, significantly contributing to the country’s socioeconomic development.
As part of the extension, the port concessionaire plans substantial investments totaling US$2.06 billion to enhance cargo handling capacity.
Initial investments of US$600 million over three years will expand container terminal capacity to 530,000 containers and increase the Matola Coal Terminal’s capacity from seven to 12 million tons per year.
By 2058, the port aims to achieve a cargo handling volume of 50.9 million tons per annum, significantly enhancing operational and terminal capacities to meet growing demands and foster economic growth.
