The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) has announced a total cargo volume of 30.9 million tonnes handled in 2024.
While this marks a slight 1% decrease from the previous year, the Port of Maputo’s performance underscores its resilience and adaptability amidst significant logistical challenges.
MPDC’s direct operations showed strong growth, handling 14.2 million tonnes, a 14% increase compared to 2023.
Road freight volumes saw notable growth, rising by 11% from 9.5 million tonnes to 10.7 million tonnes. Rail freight, a key focus of MPDC’s sustainability strategy, grew by 7%, increasing from 2.8 million tonnes to 3.0 million tonnes.
These figures demonstrate MPDC’s ability to maintain a balanced and diversified transport approach despite logistical hurdles.
The overall decline in total volumes across the Port of Maputo and the Port of Matola was largely due to disruptions caused by post-election protests and roadblocks in the Maputo Corridor, including a border closure and a month-long halt to road and border operations.
Additionally, the rail corridor between South Africa and Mozambique faced setbacks due to protests, blockades, and a derailment that closed the line for a month in October/November.
Osório Lucas, MPDC’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “The Port of Maputo faced a challenging last quarter of the year, but the resilience of our team, combined with our continued focus on diversification and efficiency, allowed us to maintain strong operational performance. The growth in our direct operations and transport volumes reflects this effort.”
A highlight of 2024 was the increase in revenues from concession fees to the Government of Mozambique, which rose by 12%, reaching US$46.8 million, compared to US$41.7 million in 2023.
This increase underscores MPDC’s commitment to contributing to Mozambique’s economic development.
In addition to these fees, MPDC’s contributions to the State include taxes on profits and dividends to its shareholder, Caminhos-de-Ferro de Moçambique (CFM).
Looking ahead, 2025 will see the commencement of major expansion projects at the Port of Maputo, including the long-awaited expansions of the container and coal terminals, both set to begin in the first half of the year.
These projects are integral to the port’s concession extension granted in early 2024 and represent a strategic investment in the future growth of the port, reinforcing its role as a key driver of trade and logistics in the region.
