The Port of Cotonou recorded a strong performance in the first half of 2025, handling 6.7 million tons of goods, representing a 63% increase compared to the same period last year.
Although activity slowed in the second quarter, with throughput falling by about 10.4% from the first quarter to 3.15 million tons, the overall half-year figures reflect significant growth.
Imports accounted for the largest share, reaching 4.1 million tons, up nearly 55% year-on-year, while exports nearly doubled to 2.16 million tons.
Transshipment activity declined by 8.6% compared to the first half of 2024, totaling 205,000 tons. However, a strong recovery was seen in the second quarter, when volumes surged by more than 300% over the first quarter.
The port also welcomed more vessel calls, with numbers rising from 338 ships in H1 2024 to 404 ships this year. In addition, handling and tare operations increased by more than 50%, boosting logistics activity and revenue generation.
This performance underscores the Port of Cotonou’s growing role as a key trade hub in West Africa, despite short-term fluctuations in activity.
