DP World has launched a major $165 million expansion of its container terminal at the Port of Maputo, in a move set to double the terminal’s handling capacity and further establish Mozambique as a strategic logistics and trade hub for Southern Africa.
The expansion will allow the port to handle post-Panamax vessels up to 366 meters in length and increase container throughput from 255,000 to 530,000 TEUs. It will also see the terminal yard grow by 6.48 hectares, while the quay will be extended to 650 meters and deepened to 16 meters.
Boosting regional trade infrastructure
“The container terminal expansion signifies our intent to strengthen Mozambique’s economic growth,” said Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and managing director for Sub-Saharan Africa at DP World. “This investment reinforces Mozambique’s role as a key cargo gateway and positions the country as a dynamic business hub.”
The upgraded port is expected to enhance trade connectivity for landlocked nations in Southern Africa, reducing logistical barriers and enabling quicker access to global markets.
Improved infrastructure and technology upgrades
New equipment will be added to support the expansion, including three ship-to-shore cranes and an expanded fleet of rubber-tyred gantry cranes. The project will also increase reefer container capacity to over 700 plugs, enhancing cold chain capabilities for agricultural exports.
According to DP World Maputo CEO Captain Sumeet Bhardwaj, “The increased capacity will lead to faster, cost-effective carrier turnarounds and attract more vessels, unlocking cross-border economic opportunity and improving export efficiency for regional producers.”
The expansion includes technological upgrades such as automated gate facilities using OCR (optical character recognition), a more advanced terminal operating system (TOS), and a digitised client community system (CCS) to better integrate customs, banks, and shipping lines.
The project also includes upgraded staff facilities, security enhancements, and new monitoring systems to ensure safe and efficient operations.
With this investment, DP World reaffirms its long-term commitment to transforming Mozambique into a high-performing logistics hub serving the broader Southern African region.