DP World and Sociedade de Desenvolvimento do Porto de Maputo (MPDC) have announced the start of work on the Phase 1 expansion of the container terminal at the Port of Maputo.

Work begins today and marks the first phase of an ambitious plan to increase the terminal's capacity from the current 255,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) to 530,000 TEUs per year.

With a total investment of around 164 million  The project will be carried out by "Shafa Construções, E.A, Limitada".

The main developments include the expansion of the container storage yard to 6.48 hectares; the construction of an additional 400 meters of quay - bringing the total to 650 meters at this stage; and the deepening of the quay draft from -12 meters to -16 meters, allowing the terminal to accommodate new post-Panamax class ships of up to 366 meters LOA (overall length).

In addition, more than 700 outlets for refrigerated containers will be installed to boost the growth of agricultural exports, particularly citrus fruit from Limpopo in South Africa and Massingir in Mozambique.

Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director of DP World in Sub-Saharan Africa, said that "for more than 20 years, DP World has proudly operated in Mozambique, which has become a vital hub for regional trade. Our ongoing investments will bring substantial value, changing the shipping landscape on the east coast of Africa, and reinforcing Mozambique's position as a key gateway for cargo movement throughout the region."

Captain Sumeet Bhardwaj, CEO of DP World Maputo, highlighted the importance of the partnership and the positive impact of the project: "This is a key milestone for DP World in Maputo. We are building a terminal ready to meet future demands, promoting efficiency, reducing costs and creating new opportunities for trade in the region. This project underlines our long-term commitment to Mozambique's development."

Osório Lucas, CEO of MPDC, stressed that this project reaffirms the Port's commitment to extending the terms of the concession: "The expansion of the container terminal is the first major milestone in the Port's strategic vision for the future. This project represents a significant step in strengthening the Port of Maputo's position as a leading logistics platform in southern Africa."

The deepening of the quay and the expansion of the infrastructure will allow the Port of Maputo to receive larger ships, gaining competitiveness in the region and positioning Maputo as an ideal transhipment hub in the region by 2026. This modernization will not only increase the terminal's operational efficiency but will also make freight rates more competitive, directly benefiting Mozambican exporters and logistics operators.

"This strategic investment will bring significant benefits to the country, including strengthening mineral and agricultural exports, reducing logistics costs and creating new direct and indirect jobs," added Osório Lucas.