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Benin’s Busy Port :
Big Gains, New Puzzles

The Port of Cotonou is making waves. In the first half of 2025, Benin’s main maritime hub handled 6.7 million tons of cargo—a 63% jump compared to last year. Imports drove much of the growth, climbing 55% to 4.1 million tons, while exports nearly doubled, hitting 2.16 million tons. The port also welcomed more ships: 404 vessels versus 338 a year earlier, a sign that carriers and traders are leaning more on Cotonou as a key entry point for trade to Nigeria and the Sahel.

Still, the ride wasn’t entirely smooth. After a strong start to the year, activity eased in Q2, with volumes dipping to 3.15 million tons. Transshipment—a key part of Cotonou’s business—also slipped in the first half, down 8.6% compared to 2024. Yet Q2 brought a rebound, hinting at resilience in this critical segment. Seasonal trends, regional competition, and shifting global trade patterns remain challenges, but despite quarterly fluctuations, year-on-year growth remains strong.

Overlaying the growth story is a twist in global shipping. Maersk, one of the world’s largest carriers, has trimmed some direct calls to Cotonou as part of a shake-up in its West Africa WAF7 service. The company says the move is about tightening schedules and using vessels more efficiently, but the ripple effects could reach beyond Benin. For years, Cotonou has served as a convenient back-door gateway for Nigeria-bound cargo. With fewer Maersk calls, some of that traffic could face delays, rerouting or higher costs.

What emerges is a picture of a port on the rise, yet navigating shifting tides. Cotonou’s cargo boom highlights its growing role as a regional hub, but changing carrier strategies are a reminder that growth depends on adaptability. For traders and logistics players, the message is clear: Cotonou is a gateway of growing importance—but one that requires keeping an eye on the currents.

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