Cameroon -  Douala Port Powers Up: More Cranes, Bigger Capacity, Stronger Trade Future 

The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) has embarked on an ambitious project to modernize and expand its container terminal, aiming to bolster Cameroon's position as a key player in regional trade. On January 17, 2025, PAD signed a series of financing agreements with the French construction firm NEGRI, marking a significant milestone in this endeavor.

The comprehensive project includes the addition of 250 linear meters of quay, development of 7.9 hectares of quayside area, construction of a Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) station, and extension of the Tyre Gantry Crane area by 1,200 meters. These enhancements are designed to increase the terminal's capacity and efficiency, addressing the growing demands of international trade. The total investment for these developments is approximately CFA47.2 billion, with NEGRI providing the necessary financing.

In alignment with this expansion, the Container Terminal Authority (RTC) at PAD plans to acquire five new cranes—two quay cranes and three Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes. This acquisition aims to enhance cargo handling capabilities and reduce operational costs. The new equipment will complement the eight RTGs purchased in 2023, bringing the total number of cranes at the port to 17. These additions are expected to increase the terminal's capacity from handling 380,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2024 to one million containers by 2030

These initiatives represent the first phase of the Douala-Bonaberi Port Development Master Plan for 2020-2025, which focuses on renovating and optimizing existing infrastructure to effectively manage the anticipated growth in cargo volumes. Cyrus Ngo'o, Director General of PAD, emphasized the strategic importance of these developments, stating that they are crucial for maintaining the port's role as the main platform for foreign trade operations in Cameroon and the sub-region.

The modernization of the container terminal is expected to have a significant impact on Cameroon's economy by facilitating international trade, creating employment opportunities, and attracting further investments. The commitment of PAD and its partners to this project underscores their dedication to enhancing the nation's economic resilience and positioning the Port of Douala as a reference point in the Gulf of Guinea.

A BESC (Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons) is mandatory for all shipments to Cameroon. Please note that a new restriction has been introduced for the certification process. The R&C Desk simplifies the process and provides efficient assistance to comply with the latest requirements.
 
For further assistance, the R&C Desk website is available 24/7.