AD Ports Group has laid the foundation stone for the Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal at the Port of Luanda.
The project boasts an initial investment of $250 million over the first three years. Additionally, AD Ports Group expects the project to reach a total investment of up to $380 million over the 20-year concession period, which it can extend until 2055.
Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal Project Factsheet
Concession agreement: A 20-year concession with the Luanda Port Authority, signed in April 2024, with an option to extend for another 10 years until 2055.
Groundbreaking: Groundbreaking and commencement of construction. The foundation stone was laid on September 19, 2025.
Timeline: The project has an 18-month construction period, with an expected completion and operational start date in the first quarter of 2027.
Financial investment:
- Initial investment: $250 million over the first three years.
- Total investment: Up to $380 million over the 20-year concession period.
- Funding: The project is financed by the partners in the joint venture.
Project scope and features:
- Terminal transformation: The existing multipurpose terminal will be upgraded into a state-of-the-art facility for general cargo, container, and Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) operations.
Increased capacity:
- Container capacity: Will increase from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs annually.
- Ro-Ro Volumes: Will exceed 40,000 vehicles per year.
Infrastructure upgrades:
- Size: The terminal spans 192,000 square meters with a 16-meter draft.
- Vessel handling: The new depth will allow the terminal to be the only one in the Port of Luanda capable of accommodating Super Post-Panamax vessels of up to 14,000 TEUs.
- New equipment: The project includes the installation of three Super Post-Panamax STS (Ship-to-Shore) cranes and eight hybrid RTGs (Rubber Tyred Gantry) cranes.
Technology and logistics:
- Advanced IT systems: New systems will be implemented to enhance operational efficiency and streamline logistics.
- Integrated logistics: A separate joint venture, Noatum Unicargas Logistics, will handle integrated logistics operations, including a significant investment in a new fleet of refrigerated trucks and transport platforms.
Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal Construction Duration
Construction at the Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal will take 18 months. The construction project is expected to deliver advanced infrastructure, technology, and sustainable equipment.
AD Ports Group holds an 81 per cent stake in the multipurpose terminal. Also, it holds a 90 per cent stake in the joint venture Noatum Unicargas Logistics. Noatum Unicargas Logistics is responsible for integrated logistics operations and fleet modernisation. This also includes refrigerated trucks and transport platforms.
Additionally, the ongoing modernisation project of the Luanda terminal will transform it into a facility for general cargo, container, and RoRo operations. This information on the modernisation was revealed by AD Ports.
Size of the Port
The port spans 192,000 square metres with a 16-metre draft. Furthermore, it will be the only terminal in the Port of Luanda that will be able to accommodate Super Post-Panamax vessels of up to 14,000 TEUs.
The upgraded terminal will have three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes. Additionally, it will have eight hybrid Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes. These will be supported by advanced IT systems to boost operational efficiency, promote sustainability, and streamline logistics operations.
Completion Date and Capacity
The modernisation will be completed in Q1 2027 and will increase container capacity from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs. Also, RoRo volumes exceeding 40,000 vehicles.
Also, utilizing its global network, AD Ports Group will attract new shipping lines to the Port of Luanda. Therefore, this will integrate Angola into key international logistics corridors.
This integration will support increased exports, lower import costs. Eventually, it will enhance both national and regional competitiveness.
Creation of Jobs
Furthermore, the modernisation project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across several sectors. These sectors include logistics, maintenance, and terminal operations.
Also, the project will include training programmes and corporate social responsibility initiatives that are aimed at supporting and empowering the local community.
Lastly, this investment strengthens Angola’s position as a regional logistics hub. Additionally, it reinforced its economic sovereignty and creates the foundation for broader industrial and commercial development in the country.
