Tamatave, Madagascar

Port Overview

Tamatave (Toamasina) is Madagascar’s principal port, located on the east coast about 210 km northeast of Antananarivo. Covering approximately 45 hectares, it is the country’s largest and busiest port, serving as the main gateway for international trade. Strategically positioned on the Indian Ocean, Tamatave connects Madagascar to major global shipping routes. The port features modern container handling facilities and has an annual container throughput capacity of around 250,000 TEU, making it vital for the nation’s imports and exports.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Tamatave (Toamasina) is Madagascar’s main port, featuring a large container terminal (140,000 m², 7,000 TEU daily capacity), two general cargo berths (185 m and 210 m), a 290 m container berth, and a dedicated petroleum berth. Facilities include high-capacity shore cranes, container lifters, forklifts, covered warehouses, open storage, and bulk silos. The port handles containers, bulk, breakbulk, Ro-Ro, and petroleum cargo, with ongoing expansion to boost capacity. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are not currently reported.

Container Terminals

Tamatave (Toamasina) container terminal currently features one main container berth of 290 meters, with a major expansion underway to add a new 756-meter berth with a 16-meter draft. The terminal’s annual capacity is around 400,000 TEU, set to increase with the expansion. Automation is moderate, including modern port management systems and ship-to-shore gantry cranes. The terminal is operated by Madagascar International Container Terminal Services Limited (MICTSL), a subsidiary of ICTSI.

Port Services

• Container handling: Modern container terminal managed by MICTSL, including loading, unloading, storage, and delivery.
• Cargo operations: Breakbulk, bulk, and general cargo handling; efficient throughput for various commodities.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, bunkering, provisions, water supply, and minor repairs.
• Warehousing: On-site storage facilities for containers and general cargo.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and inspection services for import and export cargo.

Global Connectivity

Tamatave (Toamasina) is Madagascar’s main seaport, serving as the country’s primary gateway for imports and exports. It connects directly with major ports in Africa, Asia, and Europe via regular container and bulk shipping routes. The port serves the eastern and central regions of Madagascar, including Antananarivo, and supports trade in commodities like vanilla, coffee, and minerals. Its strategic location on the Indian Ocean ensures efficient access to global markets.

Port Statistics

Port of Tamatave (Toamasina), Madagascar:

• TEU throughput: Approximately 250,000–300,000 TEU annually, handling about 95% of Madagascar’s container traffic.
• World ranking: Not ranked among the world’s top 100 container ports.
• Number of berths: 5 main berths for commercial operations.
• Port area: Covers about 34 hectares.
• Shipping lines: Served by major lines including MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, and regional carriers.