Developments and Expansion
of the Port of Pointe-Noire
Pointe-Noire: Ambitions as Central Africa's Gateway to
the Ocean
The port of Pointe-Noire in Congo-Brazzaville is
experiencing significant growth as a critical gateway for Central Africa. With ambitious
expansion projects underway, Pointe-Noire aims to secure its position as a
regional logistics hub and compete with other emerging ports in the region,
such as Kribi in Cameroon and Lobito in Angola.
Growth and Investments: Reaching One Million Containers
Annually
Olivier Denorais, CEO of African Global Logistics
(AGL)—formerly Bolloré Africa Logistics and now a subsidiary of MSC—emphasizes
the port’s impressive growth: "This is the third consecutive year we have
surpassed one million containers in Pointe-Noire. We’ve quadrupled our volume
in the past 15 years." With a vision to maintain its market-leading
position, the port authorities are investing in infrastructure upgrades and
expansions. AGL is dedicating €400 million to extend the terminal, adding 750
meters of quay with a depth of 17 meters. This extension will allow the port to
accommodate larger vessels, particularly those arriving from Asia.
Growing International Investments in Natural Resources
The strategic location and increased capacity of
Pointe-Noire are also attracting large-scale international investments. South
African billionaire Patrice Motsepe plans to invest $600 million in phosphate
mining, while Nigeria’s Dangote Group is investing in infrastructure to export
limestone from Pointe-Noire to its cement plants. According to Séraphin Bala,
port director, these new initiatives underscore the urgent need to streamline
bulk cargo operations: "We are seeing increasing demand in containerized
traffic, but bulk shipments still face delays. Bulk ships could previously
spend weeks waiting for a berth."
Future Development of the Corridor 13 Project
Another key project under consideration is "Corridor
13," which would connect Pointe-Noire with Bangui in the Central African
Republic, potentially extending to Chad. This initiative could accelerate
regional economic development, linking the port to new inland markets in
Central Africa. Although the project is not yet fully operational, the
Congolese government recognizes the strategic importance of this corridor for
regional integration.
A Look Ahead: Sustainable Growth and Development
With Africa’s economy expected to grow in the coming years,
the port of Pointe-Noire is positioning itself to meet future demand. "We
believe that African economies will continue to expand, and infrastructure must
keep pace with that growth," Denorais stated. Through strategic
investments and a commitment to innovation, Pointe-Noire remains well-prepared
to serve as a logistics and trade powerhouse for Central Africa.
The Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is mandatory for all shipment to Pointe Noire. The ECTN ensures compliance with local regulations, enhances cargo security, and speeds up customs clearance. Shippers must obtain it before departure to avoid penalties or delays. R&C Desk is a quick and dependable platform to acquire your ECTN without any delays.
Get your BIETC/ECTN/BESC/Waiver/
Certificate for Congo
Stay on up to date of all regulations!
Sources
www.rfi.fr
Image by R&C Desk
What are you waiting for?
Let us make sure that you have the correct Electronical Cargo Tracking Note for you shipment!
Login