Cabinda: The minister of Transport, Ricardo de Abreu, announced that the commissioning of the Caio Deepwater Terminal is expected to significantly boost economic development in Central Africa.
According to Angola Press News Agency, during the ceremony for the international public tender to manage the maritime terminal, Ricardo de Abreu emphasized the terminal's potential to enhance commercial and logistical exchanges among Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo. These regions form a natural trade corridor, reliant on efficient maritime transport and port operations.
The minister highlighted Cabinda's strategic geographical position, near key regional production and consumption centers, which positions it as a prospective logistical hub. He noted the Democratic Republic of Congo's vast mineral resources and the Republic of Congo's role in energy and forestry, underscoring the terminal's importance in supporting increased trade flows.
Ricardo de Abreu explained that the Caio Terminal is integral to a broader economic development strategy aimed at diversifying Cabinda's economy. He pointed out the province's strengths in forestry, agro-industry, fishing, and phosphates, all of which will benefit from the terminal's logistical capabilities.
He described the terminal as an economic catalyst, reducing logistics costs and enhancing operational predictability. This infrastructure will support Cabinda's special tax regime, attract productive investments, establish industrial chains, and strengthen a regional logistics platform.
From an economic and social perspective, the minister stated that the project would create approximately 500 direct jobs and 1,500 indirect jobs. The initial phase of the terminal will cover 21 hectares, featuring a 700-meter commercial quay and a 28-kilometer access channel.
The terminal is designed to handle ships with a capacity of up to 5,000 TEU and will be equipped with modern cargo handling technology, including ship-to-shore cranes and RTG systems, ensuring it meets contemporary maritime operational standards.
