HPC Hamburg Port Consulting has successfully completed a pre-feasibility study for the development of a bulk cargo terminal at Porto Fundo, located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. Commissioned by Spanish infrastructure company COPISA, this study marks a crucial step toward enhancing port infrastructure in the region, supporting economic growth, and reducing the nation’s dependency on external supply chains.
Strategic Location and Economic Potential
Porto Fundo is situated on Santiago, Cabo Verde’s largest and most populous island, making it an ideal site for a national logistics hub. Its central position between the islands of Maio and Fogo and proximity to the capital city Praia allows it to serve key agricultural regions and nearly half the population of the country.
The terminal is expected to boost local supply chains, reduce import costs, and create new export opportunities. It will also support regional transshipment of key goods such as grain, hydrocarbons, and potentially hydrogen products in the future, contributing to both national economic autonomy and regional trade integration.
Key Findings and Infrastructure Design
The HPC study examined various components of the terminal’s feasibility, including:
-
Market potential and cargo mix
-
Investment and operational cost estimates
-
Terminal layout and operations concept
-
Competitive positioning and pricing strategy
-
Financial analysis for investor engagement
The findings confirmed a long-term demand for both dry and liquid bulk cargo handling, with a design tailored to accommodate hydrocarbons and future growth. The study serves as a business case to attract funding from multilateral development banks and private investors, setting the stage for a more detailed feasibility phase.
Next Steps and Broader Impact
To implement the project, COPISA has partnered with AFRICOM, a Mauritanian investment firm, and established a local subsidiary to manage construction and operations. In early April, representatives from COPISA, HPC, AFRICOM, and local stakeholders presented the study to the Cabo Verdean government, securing full political support.
Initial documents to form a public-private joint venture have already been signed by COPISA, AFRICOM, and the municipality of Santa Cruz, signaling the start of the development phase. HPC will remain engaged through the planning and execution stages, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable port development in island environments.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: HHLA
