HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) has completed a pre-feasibility study for a proposed bulk cargo terminal at Porto Fundo in Santa Cruz, Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, according to HHLA's release.
Commissioned by Spanish infrastructure firm COPISA, the study assesses the viability of the terminal project and outlines steps for subsequent investment planning.
Porto Fundo's location on Santiago Island positions it strategically to serve Cabo Verde's primary agricultural region and approximately half of the nation's population.
The study includes a market analysis, terminal layout design, and financial assessment, aiming to attract financing from multilateral and development finance institutions.
COPISA, in collaboration with Mauritanian investment company AFRICOM, intends to construct the terminal.
A local subsidiary has been established to oversee port construction and operations.
José Manuel Valero Pérez, Managing Director of COPISA Cabo Verde, stated: "This project responds to the growing need for efficient port infrastructure to support the economic development of Cabo Verde. By improving bulk handling capacity, the terminal at Porto Fundo can strengthen local supply chains, reduce import costs, and contribute to the country’s long-term growth with new export opportunities. The terminal will also provide capacity for the regional transhipment of grain and hydrocarbons and, in the future, hydrogen products. The pre-feasibility study lays the groundwork for turning this vision into a concrete investment opportunity."
The final report projects a long-term demand for dry and liquid bulk handling capacity in Cabo Verde. The terminal design has been refined to accommodate hydrocarbon handling, aligning with anticipated cargo flows and operational requirements.
Dr. Martin Schramm, Project Manager at HPC, commented: "The future bulk terminal at Porto Fundo will be more than a logistics asset - it will open up new business opportunities for Cape Verde and make the islands an important maritime hub on the West African coast. By localising key cargo handling capacities, Cabo Verde can reduce dependency on transshipment routes, stabilise supply chains for essential goods like construction materials or grain, and strengthen its economic autonomy. Our study shows that with targeted investment, this vision is well within reach."
In early April, representatives from HPC, COPISA, AFRICOM, and other stakeholders presented the study's findings to the Cabo Verde government. The project received full political support, initiating the process to establish a public-private joint venture for port development.
Initial collaboration documents have been signed by COPISA, AFRICOM, and the municipality of Santa Cruz. HPC will continue to support the project's progression through future planning and implementation phases.
HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC), established in 1976, is a German consultancy specializing in port, terminal, and hinterland logistics. With over 1,900 projects in 135 countries, HPC offers services in automation, digitalization, and strategic planning, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and sustainable growth in the maritime sector.
COPISA is a Spanish infrastructure company engaged in construction and engineering projects. In Cabo Verde, COPISA is leading the development of the Porto Fundo bulk terminal, collaborating with AFRICOM and local authorities to enhance the nation's port infrastructure.
AFRICOM is a Mauritanian investment firm involved in infrastructure development.