Shipping and logistics company CMA CGM Congo recently partnered with operations company AD Ports Group to develop a new terminal in Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, reinforcing its role as a regional transshipment and multimodal hub. This investment will expand transshipment volumes and, crucially, transit operations.

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) interviewed Yvain Leroux, Managing Director of CMA CGM Congo, to discuss this initiative and the company's strategies in the country.

What specific initiatives has CMA CGM Congo implemented to strengthen intermodal transport and land solutions to improve the supply chain in Congo?

CMA CGM connects importers and exporters in Congo to 159 countries through its Pointe-Noire agency, a key transshipment hub for Central Africa. The company facilitates corridors to Brazzaville, Oyo, Pokola, Kinshasa, Cabinda and Bangui, serving a market of 80-100 million people. Congo’s strategic location in Central Africa presents great potential. By removing inefficiencies and improving infrastructure, we can develop our corridors further.

The market has significant untapped potential. To enhance corridor competitiveness, CMA CGM is improving infrastructure, streamlining processes and offering full-service transport options like BL Direct for seamless cargo delivery.

How does CMA CGM Congo collaborate with the Port of Pointe-Noire to establish it as a premier port in Central Africa?

CMA CGM partnered with AD Ports in February 2025, to develop a new terminal in Pointe-Noire, boosting transshipment and transit operations. Collaboration with the Port Authority aims to improve handling charges, port fees, turnaround times and congestion to enhance competitiveness     .

Factors like handling charges, port fees, turnaround times and congestion impact a port’s attractiveness. Efficiency is key – faster vessel processing lowers costs and enhances competitiveness. CMA CGM works closely with authorities to streamline procedures and introduce digitalization, centralized payment platforms and simplified customs processes to attract more traffic.

What services does CMA CGM Congo offer the oil industry to facilitate trade between Congo and Central Africa?

CMA CGM provides 20ft and 40ft containers, open tops, flats and specialized solutions for oversized oil industry cargo. With operations in 420 ports, the company leads in project cargo logistics, offering door-to-door, 3PL and 4PL services through CEVA Logistics.

The company maintains close relationships with oil sector clients, continuously refining logistics services based on industry feedback. Regular consultations help optimize efficiency and meet evolving transport needs.

How does CMA CGM Congo integrate digital technologies to improve logistics efficiency and transparency?

CMA CGM is leveraging digitalization to enhance logistics efficiency. A strategic partnership with Google, signed in July 2024, integrates AI into operations, optimizing routing and reducing emissions. Big data, cloud computing and blockchain improve security and streamline documentation processes.

CMA CGM was the first shipping line in Congo to implement online container release and the electronic delivery orders. Its e-commerce platform centralizes invoices, reducing paperwork, while the SEA REWARD loyalty program incentivizes digital bookings via SpotOn.

What measures has CMA CGM Congo taken to anticipate global shipping capacity trends and meet Congo’s market needs?

CMA CGM has invested $20 billion in 153 LNG- and methanol-powered vessels, aligning with its net-zero carbon goal by 2050. In early 2024, the LNG-powered CMA CGM SCANDOLA was the first such vessel to dock in Pointe-Noire.

Despite global uncertainties, African trade volumes continue to grow. Ports are modernizing, enabling larger vessels to operate efficiently. CMA CGM’s fleet strategy ensures it meets Africa’s rising demand for sustainable and efficient shipping solutions.