DP World is writing a new milestone in Peruvian port history with the official inauguration of the 'Muelle Bicentenario' megaproject, the transformation of the Muelle Sur terminal at the Port of Callao into the largest capacity terminal on the west coast of South America. By making this terminal, which has been operated by DP World for 18 years, more competitive and efficient, the Port of Callao is consolidating its position as an important regional logistics hub.
This major expansion project required an investment of approximately US$ 400 million and implies a significant growth of 80% in the terminal's capacity, going from 1.5 million TEUs per year (20-foot containers) to having the capacity to move 2.7 million TEUs. In addition, the quay for receiving ships was expanded from 650 meters to 1,050 meters, where up to three large vessels can be handled simultaneously, including two ships up to 400 meters long.
"Muelle Bicentenario is an emblematic work for Peru, which DP World has had the privilege of delivering to the country in record time and with 100% private resources, further strengthening the competitiveness of all Peruvian foreign trade," emphasizes Carlos Merino, CEO of DP World for Ecuador and Peru.
The social impact of this mega project is also very relevant. In the two and a half years of construction, it generated 700 new direct jobs in addition to the 1100 direct and more than 10,000 indirect jobs that DP World regularly generates at the terminal. This expansion will also provide greater opportunities for Peruvian exporters, as customers will be able to deliver their products in less time and quote them at a better price in other markets around the world."To date, DP World Callao has direct connections with 51 ports in the world, including 12 ports in Asia, with 8 weekly direct connection routes to this continent"., details Merino.
Regarding environmental care, DP World has a solid strategy to reduce 90% of emissions by 2030 in Scopes 1 and 2 with a focus on the market. The Bicentennial Pier includes state-of-the-art electric equipment: 3 new quay cranes, 12 new yard cranes and 20 internal trucks, all of which are 100% electric. In addition, the first electric charging station in Latin America was built for the fleet of 20 internal trucks. Going forward, an additional investment of US$ 40.5 million in port equipment is planned to increase port competitiveness, with the purchase of 2 quay cranes, 3 yard cranes and 6 internal transport trucks.
"This substantial investment in port infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment, which in many cases exceeded the initial scheduled investment, reinforces DP World's commitment to improve terminal operations and increase the positive impact on the region, in line with global market trends, where customers demand efficient, safe and sustainable ports and logistics solutions," emphasizes Carlos Merino.
Callao, economic heart of the country
Today, the port of Callao is the economic heart of the country, considering that more than 90% of Peruvian imports and exports pass through this point. DP World Callao handles 60% of this total containerized cargo and now, with the additional capacity provided by the Bicentennial Pier, this movement will be even greater, considering that its strategic location provides a reliable connection from the west coast of South America to the main global markets. "As export products, fruits, fishmeal and minerals stand out; in the case of imports, the highest percentage is concentrated in machinery and spare parts, plastics and textiles", adds Merino.
With the contribution of companies such as DP World, the port of Chalaco has become one of the most competitive. According to the latest World Bank's Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) report for 2023, it ranked second in terms of efficiency in Latin America and the Caribbean and 26th out of a total of 405 ports listed, climbing 17 positions with respect to 2022. The CPPI takes into account several aspects, including efficiency, cost and space utilization, vessel response time, cargo volume handled, loading and unloading speed, costs, among others.
At the community level, the company has several initiatives that have a positive impact in Callao, especially in the education sector, through the improvement of infrastructure in schools and educational programs that promote environmental care and sustainability, which have already impacted more than 4,000 students. Additionally, we lead a training program for entrepreneurs called Emprende Callao, which has already impacted more than 160 entrepreneurs in the area.
The company reaffirms its commitment to the creation of resilient and efficient logistics solutions through investment in infrastructure and equipment; it also consolidates its position as a relevant player in Peruvian foreign trade, willing to generate alliances with all sectors to continue contributing to the development of Callao and the country.
