DP World is set to enhance the Port of Maputo's capabilities with a strategic plan to position the port as a key regional hub for containerised cargo.According to Sumeet Bhardwaj, CEO of DP World Maputo, expanding capacity, enhancing turnaround times, and boosting overall efficiency at the port are vital parts of this strategy, which aims to increase regional volumes out of Maputo."Our goal is to make the port a leading regional hub for inbound and outbound containerised cargoes. By integrating a range of value-added services, we want to ensure a seamless supply chain f low," he said.Speaking to Freight Newsduring a recent visit to the port, he said countries like Zimbabwe, Eswatini and South Africa could benefit from using the Port of Maputo, enhancing the f low of cargo from and to the hinterland and reducing delays. "We don't see the Port of Maputo being in competition with other regional ports but rather working cohesively together, reducing the load on some of the more congested ports."He said that with the government granting the concession to MPDC until 2058, more than $600 million in investment in the port was expected over the next three years alone.According to Maneesh Goel, chief commercial officer, the initial goal is to increase the container terminal capacity from 255 000 TEUs to 500 000 per year, which will ultimately increase to around a million TEUs per year.With new infrastructure expected, including post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes, more rubber tyred gantries, and a planned draught of 16.5 metres for the port to allow and accommodate larger vessels, the Port of Maputo is on a positive g row th trajec tor y."We believe all the investment will see the port establish itself as a major transhipment hub, catering to East Africa and the southern coast."He said DP World's broader strategy involved supporting regional economies. "We are focused on growing transport corridors and enhancing capabilities for the hinterland and Mozambique's neighbouring countries, including South Africa. By reducing congestion and pressure on other regional ports, we are creating a more efficient and cost-effective logistics network."He said the DP World team placed a lot of emphasis on collaboration and synergy. "We have to work together to make viable changes and improve logistics in our region," said Bhardwaj.A joint venture with Grindrod for bulk packing at MICD, and ongoing improvements at the Komatipoort SEZ, underline DP World's commitment to infrastructure development. "We are investing in facilities and working closely with stakeholders to ensure smooth cargo f low and support regional trade," noted Goel.He said while the road ahead was not without challenges, DP World remained focused on enhancing the Port of Maputo's performance. The company anticipates increased capacity will attract more carriers and improve efficiency, reducing transit times and freight rates."As we move forward, collaboration and strategic investments will be key to sustaining growth and improving trade efficiency," said Bhardwaj. "Maputo is open for business and ready to meet the growing demands of the regional ma rke t ." LV
