PORT LOUIS, Mauritius — Mauritius is moving to modernise its port operations after the Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd (CHCL) signed a contract for seven new container-handling cranes.
The agreement covers two Megamax/Super Post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes and five hybrid Rubber Tyred Gantry cranes. The equipment is expected to arrive by the end of 2027. Operations are scheduled to begin in early 2028.
The contract was signed with Qingdao Heavy Duty Machinery Co. Ltd (QHDMCL) at the Docks in Port Louis.
CHCL says the investment forms part of a wider programme to improve port productivity, efficiency and capacity.
CHCL targets higher port efficiency
CHCL Chairman Norbert Marcel described the contract as an important step in the corporation’s transformation.
He said the new equipment would improve productivity and operational performance.
The investment also supports the Government’s wider vision for the country’s port sector.
The project forms part of the first phase of CHCL’s transformation programme.
A second phase is expected to further strengthen the corporation’s capabilities.
New cranes will handle larger ships
The new equipment is expected to improve CHCL’s ability to handle modern container vessels.
This is becoming increasingly important as shipping lines deploy larger ships on international routes.
Modern cranes can improve vessel turnaround times. They can also increase the volume of containers handled at a terminal.
For Mauritius, stronger handling capacity could help the port respond to growing demand from international shipping lines.
Project costs more than Rs 2.7bn
CHCL Managing Director Condavelloo Dorsamy said the crane project forms part of an equipment renewal programme estimated at more than Rs 2.7 billion.
The programme is being fully funded by CHCL.
The investment is intended to strengthen the corporation’s operational capacity.
It also forms part of a broader transformation programme for the port sector.
Hybrid cranes support greener operations
The equipment order includes five hybrid Rubber Tyred Gantry cranes.
The use of hybrid technology forms part of CHCL’s wider ambition to develop a smarter and greener port.
The corporation also plans to invest in digitalisation.
Employee training and professional development will form part of the transformation effort.
These measures reflect wider changes in the global port industry.
Ports are increasingly adopting digital systems and cleaner equipment to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
QHDMCL pledges technical support
The Chinese supplier has also committed to continued cooperation with CHCL.
QHDMCL is expected to support technical services, maintenance and skills development.
Its Marketing Director, Marvin Meng, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Mauritius.
He also expressed readiness for further cooperation with CHCL.
Technical support will be important once the new cranes enter service.
It can help ensure the equipment remains reliable and productive throughout its operating life.
Port transformation enters new phase
The crane contract marks a significant stage in CHCL’s transformation programme.
The corporation is seeking to combine new equipment with digitalisation and workforce development.
This approach could improve both operational performance and long-term competitiveness.
The second phase of the programme is expected to build on these investments.
Why the investment matters
Ports play a major role in international trade.
Efficient cargo handling can reduce delays and improve supply chain performance.
For an island economy such as Mauritius, reliable port operations are particularly important.
The port connects the country to international markets. Its performance also affects shipping lines, importers, exporters and logistics companies.
Upgrading handling equipment could therefore have wider economic benefits.
Mauritius targets a smarter port
CHCL’s plans extend beyond purchasing new cranes.
The corporation has identified digitalisation, employee training and professional development as important parts of its transformation.
Together, these measures could support a more modern port operation.
They may also help Mauritius respond to changing demands within the global shipping industry.
Delivery expected by 2027
The seven cranes are expected to be delivered by the end of 2027.
Operations are scheduled to begin in early 2028.
The period between delivery and commissioning will be important for installation, testing and workforce preparation.
Successful implementation will determine how quickly the new equipment improves terminal performance.
A boost for Mauritius’ port sector
The investment represents a major step in the modernisation of Mauritius’ cargo-handling infrastructure.
The new cranes are expected to increase capacity and improve operational efficiency.
The project also signals CHCL’s intention to prepare for the next generation of container shipping.
If delivered as planned, the equipment could strengthen Port Louis’ ability to serve international shipping lines and support Mauritius’ position as a maritime and logistics hub.
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- Original MaritimAfrica report
- International Maritime Organization
- Government of Mauritius
- Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd
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