Expansion Of Maputo Port Opens Trade Corridors

Managing port expansion, integrating rail corridors, and upgrading systems to streamline Southern Africa trade flow. 

DP World’s operations in Mozambique are undergoing one of the most transformative phases in the country’s logistics sector, led by an expansion of the Port of Maputo. DP World Maputo CEO Captain Sumeet Bhardwaj calls it “a game changer for the Southeast Coast of Africa” as the company pushes forward with investments to enhance the container terminal, for which it has extended the concession until 2058. 

Phase One of the expansion involves a US$165 million investment in the Maputo Container Terminal. “We are expanding the container yard by an additional 6.5 hectares, taking our capacity from 255,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) to 530,000 TEUs,” Captain Bhardwaj says. 

This upgrade includes enhancing reefer plug capacity from 750 to more than 1,000 in Phase Two, a crucial step for the region’s growing citrus exports. 

The port’s draft is being deepened from 12.5 to 16 meters, allowing it to berth vessels of up to 18,000 TEUs. “This will position the port as a regional hub for transit and transshipment cargoes, as part of our long-term strategy to meet global trade demands,” Captain Bhardwaj says. Three super post-Panamax cranes and upgraded terminal operating systems will strengthen efficiency, with improved gate operations reducing truck turnaround times.  

Beyond the port, DP World is reinforcing strategic trade corridors linking Mozambique to Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and South Africa. The new Komatipoort inland terminal in South Africa, approximately 100km from the Port of Maputo, will directly feed cargo to the port via rail, reducing road congestion and carbon emissions. 

“These corridors are essential,” Captain Bhardwaj says. “A strong port cannot succeed without strong connections, and DP World is the partner of choice for end-to-end supply chains with our expertise in logistics, freight forwarding, and market access for consumers across the country.” 

Agriculture, mining, and manufacturing are among the sectors that stand to benefit the most from improved logistics. Captain Bhardwaj stresses the role of industrial zones in unlocking this potential.  

“Mozambique is rich in resources and has fertile land. Creating special economic zones linked to the port will bring value for farmers, manufacturers, and investors alike,” he says.  

Captain Bhardwaj is optimistic about the country’s future. “Mozambique has a young, skilled workforce and a government that is open to investment,” he says. “With the right infrastructure, the nation is ready to step onto the global stage, and DP World is proud to be part of that journey.