The port of Acajutla is poised to achieve a remarkable 4.5% growth in maritime operations by the end of 2023. As of November this year, the port has already facilitated the movement of over 5 million metric tons in imports and exports, managing a staggering 130,000 containers.

Last week marked a pivotal moment as the government inaugurated the expansion of Acajutla Port’s container yard, a project valued at $8.2 million. According to the Autonomous Port Executive Commission (CEPA), this expansion is expected to amplify the port’s efficiency by 8%.

Federico Anliker, the president of CEPA, emphasized the strategic significance of Acajutla, labeling it as «the most crucial logistics point for El Salvador, catering to both imports and exports, raw materials, and finished products.» He expressed optimism about the port’s growth, attributing it to the dedicated efforts of the talented team and substantial investments in infrastructure and equipment.

Anliker disclosed that the next milestone for Acajutla Port is the completion of a new logistics warehouse, with an investment of $7.2 million, scheduled to be inaugurated in 2024. He outlined CEPA’s budget for the upcoming year, totaling $193 million, earmarking a substantial portion for projects such as the rehabilitation of the «D» dock defenses and the acquisition of additional equipment, including cranes, container carriers, forklifts, and power plants.

The president of CEPA also shed light on the progress of the Acajutla Port expansion project, highlighting ongoing negotiations with financial institutions for support. He underscored the holistic approach, stating that both the land and sea aspects of the expansion project would be considered in the coming year.

Anliker concluded by emphasizing that the logistical advancements at the port mirror the economic dynamism of El Salvador. He stated, «Ports and airports serve as the primary barometers of productive activity. Hence, the historic quantities of container handling, general cargo, basic grains, and fuels at this port signify the economic vitality that El Salvador is currently experiencing.»

The anticipation of continued growth in Acajutla Port’s operations reflects not only local economic resilience but also underscores its pivotal role in the region’s trade landscape.