Lirquen, Chile
Lirquén is a major multipurpose port in southern Chile, serving as a key gateway for regional exports and international trade.
Port Overview
Lirquen is a major port located on Chile’s central western coast in the Biobío Region, near the city of Concepción. It ranks among the country’s key private ports, featuring two terminals and six berths, and is strategically positioned for access to South Pacific shipping routes. Lirquen plays a vital role in Chile’s export-import activities, handling both containerized and bulk cargo. Its annual container throughput capacity is approximately 500,000 TEU, making it an important node in regional and international maritime trade.
Facilities & Infrastructure
DP World Lirquén, located in Chile’s Bío Bío Region, is a major multipurpose port with six docking sites across two piers—Pier 1 (four berths, max draft 12.8m) for break bulk and bulk cargo, and Pier 2 (two berths, max draft 15.7m) for container ships. The port features extensive container and bulk yards (over 480,000 m²), modern warehouses, and specialized facilities for oversized cargo. Equipment includes state-of-the-art gantry cranes, mobile cranes, advanced bulk handling systems, and integrated logistics support. Direct rail and highway access ensure efficient connectivity to regional and national markets.
Container Terminals
Lirquen, Chile’s main container terminal, operated by DP World, features six berths and handles over 3 million tonnes of cargo annually. The terminal has a container yard of approximately 250,000 m² and can accommodate vessels up to 367 meters in length. Automation is moderate, with modern technology and mobile cranes supporting efficient operations, but it is not fully automated. DP World is the major operator, ensuring international standards and service quality.
Port Services
- Container handling: Dedicated container terminals with modern gantry cranes and storage facilities.
- Cargo operations: Import/export of containerized, bulk, and breakbulk cargoes including timber, woodpulp, and fertilizer.
- Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, bunker fuel supply, fresh water provisioning, waste management, and vessel repairs.
- Warehousing: Extensive covered and open storage warehouses, advanced logistics support, and large yard areas.
- Customs: On-site customs clearance, security screening, and advanced processing systems.
Global Connectivity
Lirquen, Chile, offers strategic connectivity through its extensive roadway and railway access, linking it to production centers across regions VII to X. The port is a critical node for South American markets, facilitating efficient intermodal transportation. It connects to major shipping routes in the South Pacific, enhancing its role in international trade. Key shipping routes link Lirquen to major markets via the Pacific Ocean.
Port Statistics
Port of Lirquen, Chile – Key Statistics
- TEU Throughput: Approximately 60,000 TEU annually
- World Ranking: 472nd globally (Port Connectivity Ranking)
- Number of Berths: 3 main berths
- Port Area: Medium-sized port
- Shipping Lines: Serviced by major carriers including MSC, CMA CGM, Hamburg Süd, Maersk, COSCO, and X-Press Feeders, with regular connections to Asia, Europe, and North America
