Luanda Terminal targets 1.2 million TEUs capacity

Since beginning operations in 2021, DP World has invested more than US$260mn in upgrading and modernising its terminal at the Port of Luanda

Over the past five years, annual container throughput has nearly doubled, rising from 177,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to more than 350,000 TEUs. This growth has been supported by an additional 28,000m² of yard space.

To strengthen its handling capacity, DP World acquired two additional Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs) and an extra empty handler this year, increasing its fleet to eight MHCs. The terminal has also expanded its refrigerated container connections, increasing reefer plugs from 630 to 700.

During the inauguration of its new terminal building at the Port of Luanda, DP World announced a further US$90mn investment over the next two years. The funding will support additional infrastructure, equipment and operational improvements. Planned works include extending the quay by 222 metres and expanding the operating area by 10 hectares, raising the terminal’s design capacity to 1.2 million TEUs.

The expansion will also involve the acquisition of three Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 12 semi-automated rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes. These additions will enable the terminal to handle two Post-Panamax vessels simultaneously, strengthening Luanda’s position as a container gateway for Central Africa and a major trade hub in sub-Saharan Africa.

The project is also expected to support local employment and industrialisation, enhance export competitiveness and encourage foreign investment, while facilitating more sustainable regional trade flows.

Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and managing director, Africa, DP World, said, “The expansion of DP World Luanda is an important milestone both for Angola and for the wider region. The ability to handle larger vessels will support new shipping services and strengthen the terminal’s potential as a gateway for West and Central Africa. Our investment will improve the efficiency and sustainability of trade flows, giving customers greater reliability, shorter turnaround times and improved access to global markets, and reinforcing Angola’s prominent role within our regional and global logistics network.”

Paco Pinzon, CEO, DP World Luanda, stated, “Having our concession extended to 2051 demonstrates our long-term commitment to Angola and its future as a leading regional trade gateway. Our continued investments will create a more efficient and competitive experience for our customers, while supporting Angola’s ambitions to strengthen trade connectivity, diversify the economy and become a continental logistics hub. The expansion will benefit the entire logistics ecosystem, and we will continue to create opportunities, strengthen regional connectivity and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Angola.”