Beira, Mozambique

Port Overview

Beira, Mozambique is located in Sofala Province at the mouth of the Pungwe River along the Mozambique Channel. As the country’s second-largest port, Beira serves as a crucial gateway for regional trade, connecting landlocked countries like Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia to global markets. Its strategic position within the Beira Corridor makes it vital for Southern African logistics. The port handles a wide range of cargo and has an annual container capacity of approximately 100,000 TEU, supporting both national and regional economic activity.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Beira Port features key terminals including a container terminal (expanding to 700,000 TEU/year), a general cargo terminal, a multipurpose terminal, and specialized terminals for fuel and fertilizer. Cargo facilities include modern warehousing, a new refrigerated export yard, and expanded storage areas. Equipment includes rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes for container handling and mobile cranes. The port is undergoing major upgrades but does not currently operate automated guided vehicles (AGVs).

Container Terminals

Beira’s container terminal has 4 berths along 645 meters, with an annual capacity of 400,000 TEUs. The terminal is operated by Cornelder de Moçambique. Automation is moderate, featuring a computerized port management system but limited advanced automation. The facility includes 144 reefer points and a large container yard. Major operators are Cornelder de Moçambique, with CFM overseeing infrastructure and port operations.

Port Services

• Container handling: Modern container terminal with computerized management, container storage yards, reefer points, and dangerous goods area.
• Cargo operations: Facilities for bulk, break bulk, general cargo, liquid bulk, and ro-ro cargo; multi-purpose berths and advanced cargo tracking.
• Ship services: 24/7 stevedoring, pilotage, bunkering, fresh water supply, waste management, and basic ship repair.
• Warehousing: Bonded transit warehouse, covered storage, open yards, and dedicated areas for various cargo types.
• Customs: On-site customs clearance, security screening, and support for import/export processes.

Global Connectivity

Beira, Mozambique is a key regional hub, connecting landlocked countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi to international markets. The port is linked by rail and road to these regions and serves as a gateway for the Beira Corridor. Major shipping routes from Beira connect to the Middle East, India, and Asia, with feeder services to other East African ports, supporting both regional and global trade flows.

Port Statistics

Port of Beira, Mozambique – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU throughput: Approximately 300,000 TEU annually, with capacity expansion underway to reach 700,000 TEU.
• World ranking: Not in the global top 100 container ports.
• Number of berths: 12.
• Port area: About 200 hectares.
• Shipping lines: Served by major carriers including MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, PIL, and regional operators.