AD Ports Group, a logistics giant from Abu Dhabi, has signed a landmark agreement with Angolan authorities to revitalize the nation's primary maritime gateway. The deal entails a 20-year concession for AD Ports to operate and significantly upgrade the Luanda Multipurpose Port Terminal. This strategic partnership promises to transform Luanda into a modern and efficient trade hub, bolstering Angolan commerce and propelling growth across Central West Africa.
The agreement signifies a substantial investment by AD Ports. The company has committed an initial $251 million towards modernizing the Luanda terminal and developing its logistics infrastructure over the next three years. This figure could potentially rise to $379 million throughout the concession period, contingent on market demands.
A key aspect of the deal involves collaboration with prominent Angolan firms. AD Ports has acquired majority stakes in two joint ventures established for this project. The first holds an 81% stake in the entity tasked with operating the Luanda terminal. The second, with a 90% stake, will provide logistical support to the facility and the broader Angolan market. This strategic partnership leverages the expertise of AD Ports while fostering Angolan participation in the project's success.
The Luanda Multipurpose Port Terminal serves as the lifeblood of Angolan trade, handling over 76% of the country's containerized cargo and general goods. Upgrading the facility will significantly enhance its capacity and efficiency. Plans include expanding the concession area, reinforcing the quay wall to accommodate larger vessels, and incorporating advanced equipment like additional ship-to-shore cranes and gantry cranes. The project also includes deepening the port's draft, allowing for the passage of larger cargo ships.
The modernization process aims to transform the Luanda terminal into a dedicated container and Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) facility. This specialization will streamline cargo handling and expedite trade flows. By the third quarter of 2026, the project is expected to significantly increase the port's capacity, with container handling projected to rise from 25,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) to a staggering 350,000 TEUs annually. Ro-Ro vehicle handling is also anticipated to witness a substantial boost, reaching over 40,000 vehicles per year.
The Luanda port revamp isn't merely an infrastructure project; it's a catalyst for economic growth. By enhancing trade efficiency, the upgraded terminal will attract more business to Angola, stimulating domestic and regional economic activity. The project also holds the potential to create significant job opportunities, further bolstering the Angolan economy.