Takoradi Port Records Major Growth in 2024, Fueling Regional Trade and Tourism Expansion

Takoradi Port

Takoradi Port has marked a year of significant growth in 2024, showcasing its expanding role as a vital maritime hub for both cargo trade and tourism.

With a remarkable surge in cargo volumes, an unprecedented spike in transit trade, and an increase in cruise ship activity, the port is poised to further strengthen its position in the West African trade network.

As of November 2024, Takoradi Port handled 9.4 million metric tonnes of cargo, a notable 33.28% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth reflects the port’s focus on operational efficiency and its ability to meet the rising demands of both local and international trade. The import sector saw an 11.03% increase, totaling 2,877,273 metric tonnes, while exports surged by 44%, reaching 6,472,998 metric tonnes. Key exports, including manganese and bauxite, drove this expansion, underscoring the port’s critical role in supporting Ghana’s resource-based industries.

In a breakthrough for regional trade, Takoradi Port recorded a dramatic 2,173.72% increase in transit trade, with 51,086 metric tonnes handled by November 2024, compared to just 2,247 metric tonnes in the previous year. This growth highlights the port’s growing prominence as a transit hub for neighboring countries.

Cruise ship traffic also saw a significant rise, with the port recording 14 cruise ship calls by November 2024, doubling the seven calls registered during the same period in 2023. This increase reflects Takoradi Port’s expanding role in West Africa’s burgeoning cruise tourism sector.

Despite these successes, some areas faced challenges, with container traffic declining by 11% and vessel calls dropping by 13.23%. However, the opening of the YILPORT-ATSL container and multipurpose terminal in September 2024, and the inauguration of an oil and gas services terminal in November, position Takoradi Port for continued growth in key sectors.

In addition to its cargo and tourism achievements, Takoradi Port introduced a state-of-the-art medical diagnostic centre in April 2024, providing essential healthcare services to the port community and surrounding regions. Plans are in place to expand the facility with a 24-hour pharmacy and an MRI machine to enhance service offerings.

Looking forward, Takoradi Port is set to launch several new initiatives. The Prime Meridian Dock (PMD) floating dock project will begin operations soon, enhancing the port’s capabilities in ship repairs and maintenance. The upcoming Genser Energy Cryonic Tank Farm Facility, set to begin operations in 2025, will support gas exports and diversify the port’s service offerings. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority, Takoradi Port aims to develop a dedicated cruise ship terminal by 2025.

With these strategic developments in place, the port expects to handle 9.8 million metric tonnes of cargo in 2025, approaching pre-COVID levels. Takoradi Port’s continued growth and investment in infrastructure are positioning it as a key player in Ghana’s economic development and a critical gateway for trade and tourism in West Africa.

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