French logistics major Bolloré has revealed plans to invest €400 million in the construction of a second container terminal at Ivory Coast’s main port of Abidjan. A Bolloré spokesperson told FTW Online that the project was part of a long-term investment policy to enhance the competitiveness of the port and increase the volumes handled.
“Once the work is completed, the port will be able to receive new-generation ships and handle increased volumes. Thus, by increasing the operational capacity of the port of Abidjan, the authorities are strengthening its competitiveness and its strategic role in supplying the hinterland countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.”
In recent years, Côte d'Ivoire has achieved one of the highest growth rates in the world at around 7.6% per annum, according to the spokesperson. This has generated significant growth in import and export volumes.
“To meet this demand, Ivoirian authorities have launched a vast development programme for the Port of Abidjan aiming to provide the country with additional infrastructure,” the spokesman said. “In 2012 they put out a tender to build a second terminal in Abidjan, deepen the lagoon (from 12 to 17 metres), widen the Vridi Canal and create quays with new equipment. Long-time partner of Côte d’Ivoire, Bolloré Transport & Logistics and its partner APMT, won the tender.”
