The Port of Beira, one of Mozambique’s main port infrastructures, recently inaugurated a new cold storage yard, with the aim of increasing its capacity for handling refrigerated cargo, both for export and import. The initiative seeks to meet the growing demand for transportation of goods that require strict temperature control, especially citrus fruits and seafood, key products exported through the Beira corridor, as reported by the Club of Mozambique portal.
According to an official statement from the entity responsible for managing the port, the new reefer export yard has 64 reefer plugs, which are used to connect and monitor refrigerated containers, ensuring the proper temperature of the goods. The strategic location of this yard, close to the quays, will reduce the pressure on the existing reefer yard, which currently operates with 144 plugs.
In addition to the inauguration of the new yard, the statement indicates that plans for the expansion of the main reefer yard are underway. By the end of this year, capacity will be increased from 144 to 224 reefer plugs, and a further 64 plugs will be added by 2025. With these improvements, the Port of Beira’s total capacity for handling reefer containers will reach 288 plugs by 2024 and 352 by the end of 2025.
This growth in cold storage capacity is a direct response to the growing demand for export services for perishable products. The increase will allow the port to consolidate its position as an important logistics hub in Southern Africa, facilitating not only exports from Mozambique, but also trade with neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia.
In addition, the Port of Beira has implemented a new Reefer Monitoring System (RMS), a real-time remote monitoring system for refrigerated containers. Integrated into the terminal’s operating system, the RMS guarantees strict temperature control and security of the goods, essential factors for maintaining the quality of perishable products during transportation.
The expansion and modernization of the Port of Beira’s refrigerated infrastructure is part of a wider development strategy aimed at transforming it into a world-class logistics hub. Continuous improvements ensure that the port meets the constantly evolving needs of its customers, ensuring competitiveness and efficiency in the management of refrigerated cargo.
