English version

INTERNATIONAL PORTS FAIR 2026 : The Port Authority of Douala promotes Cameroon’s logistics hub

(LVDE) – In El Jadida, Morocco, the Port Authority of Douala positioned itself as a showcase of Cameroon’s logistics capabilities during the first edition of the International Ports Fair. Against a backdrop of transformation in African maritime trade, the state-owned company highlighted its performance, flagship projects, and the investment opportunities offered by the Douala-Bonabéri port hub.

Raphael Mforlem Publié :7 avril 2026 | Mis à jour :7 avril 2026 2 minutes lues

On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, the city of El Jadida hosted, from April 1 to 3, 2026, the inaugural edition of the International Ports Fair (SIPORTS). Held under the auspices of Morocco’s Ministry of Equipment and Water, the event is part of the Atlantic African States Process (AASP), aimed at strengthening maritime and port cooperation across the continent. More than 300 exhibitors from around forty countries took part, reflecting the growing interest in African port infrastructure, now central to global trade flows.

In this increasingly competitive logistics environment, the Port Authority of Douala (PAD) seized the opportunity to promote Cameroon as a destination. Through a highly visited exhibition stand, the institution’s representatives showcased the strengths of the Douala-Bonabéri port, widely regarded as a strategic gateway to Central Africa. Visitors were introduced to the platform’s operational capacities, cargo-handling performance, and ongoing expansion prospects.

Beyond visibility, PAD’s participation was marked by active engagement in dialogue and cooperation platforms. The institution took part in meetings bringing together port authorities within the AASP framework, as well as B2C sessions held alongside the exhibition. These interactions enabled the sharing of expertise, the exploration of new partnerships, and the positioning of the Cameroonian port within regional and international logistics chains.

At a time when African ports play a pivotal role in economic integration, PAD emphasized its modernization and expansion projects aimed at improving operational efficiency and boosting competitiveness. The Douala-Bonabéri port handles a significant share of maritime traffic in the sub-region and serves as a vital trade corridor for Cameroon and landlocked neighboring countries such as Chad and the Central African Republic.

The event also provided a platform to promote investment opportunities within Cameroon’s port ecosystem, particularly in logistics, infrastructure, and related services. This strategy aligns with efforts to attract greater trade flows and strengthen Cameroon’s position as a logistics hub at the heart of the Gulf of Guinea.

At the end of three days of intense activities, the Port Authority of Douala was commended for the quality of its participation and the relevance of its contributions. By enhancing its international visibility and forging strategic connections, PAD reaffirms its ambition to establish itself as a key player in Africa’s rapidly evolving port sector.