Paramaribo, Suriname
Paramaribo is Suriname’s capital and chief port, renowned for its UNESCO-listed colonial architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.
Port Overview
Paramaribo, the capital and largest city of Suriname, is located on the banks of the Suriname River, about 15 km from the Atlantic Ocean. As the country’s chief port, it serves as Suriname’s main gateway for maritime trade and logistics. Paramaribo is the dominant urban center in Suriname, with a population of over 220,000, making it the most populous city in the nation. The port’s strategic location supports the export of key commodities, though its annual container throughput is modest, typically handling under 100,000 TEU per year.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Paramaribo’s main port, the Dr. Jules Sedney Port, features key terminals operated by DP World Paramaribo, including a multipurpose container terminal and specialized bulk terminal. Facilities handle containers, breakbulk, dry and liquid bulk, Ro-Ro, and reefer cargo. Equipment includes modern mobile cranes, reach stackers, terminal tractors, and reefer plugs. The port uses a terminal operating system for efficient yard operations but does not currently employ automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
Container Terminals
Paramaribo’s main container terminal is located at Dr. Jules Sedney Port and operated primarily by DP World Paramaribo. The terminal has 3 berths and an annual handling capacity of approximately 130,000–150,000 TEU. Automation is moderate, featuring state-of-the-art equipment and terminal control systems, but not full automation. DP World Paramaribo is the major operator, offering advanced container and reefer handling services with efficient truck turnaround and yard productivity.
Port Services
- Container handling: Full and empty container operations, including reefer (refrigerated) containers.
- Cargo operations: General cargo, break-bulk, vehicles, and project cargo handling.
- Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, limited ship repairs, provision and fuel supply, water, and navigation equipment.
- Warehousing: Storage facilities for various cargo types, including bonded and general warehousing.
- Customs: On-site customs clearance and inspection services for import and export cargo.
Global Connectivity
Paramaribo, Suriname’s main port, connects to key Caribbean hubs such as Cartagena, Manzanillo, Kingston, and Caucedo, enabling access to major global markets including Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America. The port serves Suriname’s capital and interior regions, supporting container, bulk, and breakbulk cargo. Shipping routes via regional transshipment centers link Paramaribo to the US East Coast, Central America, and other strategic destinations.
Port Statistics
Paramaribo Port, Suriname
- TEU throughput: Approximately 50,000–60,000 TEU annually
- World ranking: 314th by port connectivity
- Number of berths: 4 main container berths (Nieuwe Haven terminal)
- Area: Container yard space of 20,000 m²; overall port area is small to medium
- Shipping lines: Served by regional and international carriers, including CMA CGM, Maersk, and Tropical Shipping
The port handles general cargo, containers, bulk, and tankers, with recent upgrades to cranes and IT systems.
