The Autonomous Port of Cotonou celebrates its 60th anniversary: six decades of economic leadership
A significant celebration for a key player in the Beninese economy
From March 21 to 29, 2025, the Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC) celebrated its 60th anniversary. A historic event organized with the support of the Ministry of Living Environment and Transport in charge of Sustainable Development, and in partnership with Port of Antwerp-Bruges. This celebration brought together the main players in the maritime and port sector around a port considered the economic lung of Benin and a strategic hub for the West African sub-region .
Benin Terminal, a leading partner for the anniversary
A key player in the Beninese logistics chain, Benin Terminal , a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL) , actively supported the festivities as a DIAMOND partner . Through this commitment, the company reaffirmed its desire to be part of the port’s long-term development and contribute to its influence.
“Kùdo jigbézǎn to the leading institution of the port community of Benin,” declared Fabrice TURE, General Manager of Benin Terminal, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the PAC’s vision of performance and excellence.
A central role in sub-regional trade
The Port of Cotonou handles an average of 80 to 90 commercial vessels per month and accounts for 90% of Benin’s international trade . It plays a strategic transit role for neighboring countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria , representing 49% of regional traffic and serving a market estimated at 100 million consumers . Through expansion and modernization works, the port is aiming for a capacity of 23 million tonnes by 2038 .
Benin Terminal: investments, jobs and social impact
Since 2013, Benin Terminal has invested 150 billion FCFA ( 229 million euros ) to make the container terminal a regional logistics hub . The company employs 480 Beninese and generates more than 1,000 indirect jobs through subcontracting. It also carries out social actions in partnership with NGOs: support for schooling, youth empowerment, environmental awareness, etc.
Conclusion
The celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Autonomous Port of Cotonou symbolizes much more than a simple anniversary: it is the recognition of a strategic pillar of national and regional economic development. Through the involvement of stakeholders like Benin Terminal, the port is firmly committed to a dynamic of modernization, performance, and sustainability. A clear ambition: to make the Port of Cotonou a model port for West Africa .
