Expanding Congo Terminal: Strengthening the Autonomous Port of Pointe-Noire
Congo Terminal, a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL) and part of a joint venture with APM Terminals and SOCOTRANS, was created in 2009 after a public-private partnership was agreed with the Congolese government. Under this agreement, it secured a 30-year concession to operate the container terminal at the autonomous port of Pointe-Noire, located in the Republic of Congo’s second largest city of the same name.
Since then, Congo Terminal has been the exclusive concessionaire, managing both container ships and roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessels, which transport wheeled cargo such as cars, trucks and trailers at the port. AGL has initiated major modernization and expansion efforts at the Congo Terminal site to assist with its development.
The Significance of Port of Pointe-Noire
While Congo Terminal often refers to the company, it can also refer to the terminal facility itself, located at port of Pointe-Noire. The port and facility sits within the Gulf of Guinea at the intersection of key maritime shipping routes connecting the Americas, Europe and Asia.
As the Republic of Congo’s second-largest city and home to its busiest port, Pointe-Noire handles a diverse range of cargo. From containers and bulk goods through to petroleum products, the port plays a critical role in trade across Africa and international markets.
Notably, it is the subregion’s only deep-water port with direct access from the sea. As such, and together with its unique position, the port plays a crucial role supporting economic growth and fostering greater integration.
Secured Financing for Expansion
In March 2025, the Congo Terminal signed a financing deal worth 230 million euros to expand the Container Terminal. The financing round was led by Crédit du Congo and Attijariwafa Bank and made up solely of a group of Congolese participating banks, highlighting the confidence in the long-term viability of the Congo Terminal.
The financing will support construction of a new 750-metre quay in 2027 and represents a strategic investment to increase the operational capacity of Congo’s sole maritime outlet.
Congo Terminal has a workforce of over 900 permanent staff and is designated a company of national significance by the Central African Banking Commission (CABC).This expansion will facilitate local economic development by creating jobs not only during the construction but also to handle increased shipping operations once complete.
Commenting on the financing round, Anthony Samzum, the Managing Director of Congo Terminal, said:
“This achievement marks a major milestone for Congo Terminal and for the development of the country's infrastructure. Thanks to this cooperation with all partners, the terminal will be able to accommodate the largest container ships, thus contributing to the fluidity of trade and the competitiveness of the Congolese economy on the international scene.”
Strengthening Infrastructure, Empowering Trade and Creating Jobs
Backed by a strong partnership between the public and private sectors, the expansion of Congo Terminal not only enhances the port of Pointe-Noire's operational efficiency but strengthens the country’s position as a key player in global shipping routes.
As the port grows, it will drive economic development, create jobs and promote greater integration within Central Africa, laying a solid foundation for sustained growth and competitiveness in the years ahead.