AD Ports Group Expands Operations with Major Investment in Luanda, Angola
AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a global leader in trade, logistics, and industry, has officially launched its long-term management and development of a major multipurpose terminal and logistics business in Luanda, Angola. Partnering with Angolan firms Unicargas and Multiparques, the group aims to modernize port operations and strengthen regional trade networks.
The Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal, Angola’s largest port, handles 76% of the country’s container and general cargo volumes, serving as a vital gateway to neighboring nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia.
AD Ports Group has secured an 81% stake in the terminal venture and a 90% stake in the logistics business under a 20-year concession agreement signed in April 2024 with the Luanda Port Authority.
AD Ports Group has committed to investing approximately USD 250 million by 2026 to upgrade the terminal and enhance Noatum Unicargas Logistics, a joint venture providing integrated logistics and freight forwarding services. Depending on market demand, total investment could rise to USD 380 million, with a possible 10-year extension of the concession.
To support the modernization, Noatum Unicargas Logistics will invest in new trucks and advanced IT systems, integrating seamlessly with Noatum Logistics’ global network. Additionally, AD Ports Group’s investment will create thousands of jobs and contribute to workforce training and upskilling.
His Excellency Ricardo Daniel Sandão Queirós Viegas d’Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, emphasized the collaboration’s significance, stating, “The Port of Luanda is Angola’s main maritime gateway and a key driver of regional trade. This partnership will transform the port into a world-class logistics hub, fostering economic growth and enhancing global trade access.” The Angolan government has pledged full support to ensure the success of AD Ports Group’s investment.
Under AD Ports Group’s leadership, the Luanda terminal will be enhanced to handle general cargo, container shipments, and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations. With a depth of 16 meters, it will accommodate Super Post-Panamax vessels with a capacity of up to 14,000 TEUs.
By the third quarter of 2026, new container handling equipment, including three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes and eight hybrid RTG cranes from Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (ZPMC), will significantly boost capacity.
The upgrade will increase container throughput from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs and Ro-Ro volumes to over 40,000 vehicles. Hybrid RTG cranes will cut diesel consumption by 60%, reducing annual CO2 emissions by 5,000 metric tonnes.
The transition of business assets has been seamless, ensuring uninterrupted terminal operations. AD Ports Group is also implementing a robust Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) program to enhance workplace safety and environmental protection.
AD Ports Group has been rapidly expanding its footprint in Africa, announcing over USD 800 million in investments across Egypt, the Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Angola. The group’s entry into Angola follows a 2023 framework agreement to explore cooperation in transport and maritime infrastructure.
Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, remarked, “Our investment in Angola aligns with our vision to develop world-class trade and logistics solutions. By upgrading Luanda’s terminal and integrating it into our global network, we will drive economic growth, enhance trade connectivity, and create long-term prosperity for Angola.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AD Ports Group.
