Antofagasta, Chile

Port Overview

Antofagasta is a major port city in northern Chile, located on the Pacific coast about 1,100 km north of Santiago. It ranks among Chile’s largest ports and is the capital of the Antofagasta Region, which is the country’s second largest by area. Strategically, Antofagasta serves as a key export hub for Chile’s mining industry, especially copper, and connects by road and rail to Bolivia and Argentina. The port handles approximately 250,000 TEU annually, supporting regional and international trade.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Antofagasta port features key terminals operated by Antofagasta Terminal Internacional (ATI) and Empresa Portuaria Antofagasta (EPA). ATI manages Berths 4-7, handling most cargo throughput, while EPA operates Terminal 1, mainly used for storage and container stuffing. Facilities include bulk terminals, advanced storage areas, and equipment such as container cranes for copper exports. The port is modernizing with infrastructure upgrades, but currently does not use automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Its focus is on efficient mineral and general cargo handling.

Container Terminals

Antofagasta, Chile’s main container terminal is operated by Antofagasta Terminal Internacional (ATI), featuring 4 berths dedicated to containers and multipurpose cargo. The terminal has an annual capacity of approximately 120,000 TEU. Automation levels are moderate, with modern handling equipment but limited full automation. Major operators include ATI (a subsidiary of Hanseatic Global Terminals), while the public Empresa Portuaria Antofagasta (EPA) manages a smaller share of throughput.

Port Services

• Container handling: Full container operations including loading, unloading, storage, and stuffing/unstuffing of 20’, 40’, flat rack, and open top containers.
• Cargo operations: Bulk, general, and project cargo handling, including segregation, marking, palletizing, lashing, and cross-docking.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, vessel berthing, bunkering, and fresh water supply.
• Warehousing: Covered and open storage areas, pre-stacking, and inventory management with WMS support.
• Customs: On-site customs clearance, inspection facilities, and documentation processing.

Global Connectivity

Antofagasta, Chile is a key port serving the northern mining region, especially copper producers. It connects with nearby ports like Mejillones and Angamos, and links inland via road and rail to major mines. Shipping routes from Antofagasta reach Asia (notably China), other Latin American ports, and global markets. The port’s advanced infrastructure and direct maritime connections support efficient mineral exports and regional trade.

Port Statistics

Port of Antofagasta, Chile – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU throughput: Approximately 250,000–300,000 TEU annually
• World ranking: Not in the global top 100 container ports
• Number of berths: 8 main berths
• Port area: About 60 hectares
• Shipping lines: Serviced by major carriers including MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, CMA CGM, and regional operators

The port primarily handles copper, minerals, and general cargo, with modern facilities and direct connections to mining operations.