The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) and Administração dos Portos de Sines e do Algarve, SA (APS) have signed an agreement to strengthen collaboration in the development of sustainable, green, and digital logistics corridors.
This partnership builds on the historic and economic ties between Namibia and Portugal to enhance connectivity, trade and investment.
The agreement highlights the importance of developing an Atlantic hub and logistics corridor to facilitate the movement of commodities between Namibia and Portugal.
The agreement, which will remain in effect for five years, focuses on identifying potential synergies in port development, logistics and trade facilitation. Both port authorities will explore opportunities to improve port efficiency, digitalisation and environmental sustainability.
According to a joint press release, the agreement aligns with the European Commission’s Global Gateway initiative, which seeks to make nearly N$6 trillion (€300 billion) available in investment for smart, clean and secure infrastructure in the energy, transport and digital sectors.
“Under this initiative, the Port of Sines has been positioned as a key European logistics hub, capitalising on its strategic location and natural advantages. On the Namibian side, the country aims to leverage its abundant renewable energy resources and critical raw materials to position itself as a leader in global green hydrogen production,” the communiqué notes.
The ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz are expected to play a crucial role in this transition by supporting the export of critical raw materials, synthetic fuels and green hydrogen.
The Port of Walvis Bay handles approximately 5.6 million tonnes of cargo annually, serving as a major gateway for trade between southern Africa and international markets. It specialises in containerised cargo, bulk commodities, and petroleum imports.
The Port of Lüderitz primarily handles zinc, lead, and fish exports, with an annual throughput of around 500 000 tonnes. The port is also being positioned to support Namibia’s emerging green hydrogen industry.
Meanwhile, APS manages several ports in Portugal, including the Port of Sines, which is the largest and busiest port in Portugal, handling over 60 million tonnes of cargo annually. It is a key hub for oil, natural gas and containerised trade, serving as a transshipment point for Europe, Africa and the Americas.
The Ports of Algarve are smaller ports that handle regional trade, tourism, and maritime activities.
The partnership between Namport and APS is expected to drive mutual benefits by fostering trade growth, technological innovation and sustainability in port operations, reinforcing both Namibia and Portugal as key players in the global logistics network.
– Nampa
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