Each year, the port of Cartagena moves more than 319,000 containers of refrigerated cargo, with a focus on fresh produce such as avocados, lemons, chrysanthemums, and meats. "The port's ability to handle this amount of refrigerated cargo is a testament to our state-of-the-art infrastructure, designed to ensure the freshness and quality of products throughout the logistics process," stated Martha Amor Olaya, Grupo Puerto de Cartagena's chief press officer.
The port of Cartagena received more than 3,301 vessels last year, connecting Colombia with more than 150 countries and 840 ports around the world. The port has direct routes to 18 ports in the United States and 8 in Europe, including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Italy, guaranteeing competitive transit times, such as 12 days to the Netherlands, Amor Olaya stated.
Port of Cartagena.
The port of Cartagena has implemented strict security protocols, making it one of the safest in the region. "The Container Security Initiative (CSI), in collaboration with the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), allows the pre-inspection of high-risk containers before their departure," Amor Olaya stated. This security system includes X-ray scanners, metal and narcotics detectors, and closed-circuit camera surveillance, ensuring that cargo is handled safely and efficiently at all times.
"Avocados, lemons, fresh flowers, and other perishable products, such as canned fruits are some of the most exported products through this port. Their main destinations are the United States, Europe, and Asia, with key ports in countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom," she added. This strategic connectivity has boosted the growth of Colombia's agricultural sector, allowing fresh products to reach international markets in optimal conditions.
Since 2015, the port has implemented a plan to reduce its carbon footprint, installing 7,100 solar panels and electrifying cranes. "The port has also implemented technological innovations, such as the ethylene sensor, which makes it possible to monitor ethylene levels inside containers and activate ventilation mechanisms when necessary, thus prolonging the shelf life of fruits and vegetables during transit," Amor Olaya stated.
Port of Cartagena.
"The opening of the port of Chancay in Peru is a sign of the growing dynamism of trade in the Andean region. This port is well-positioned for trade with Asia, opening new opportunities for intra-regional trade. The port of Chancay has a growing infrastructure but does not represent direct competition to the port of Cartagena, as the two ports have different focuses. Chancay is more oriented towards trade with Asia, while Cartagena connects particularly with markets in the United States and Europe."
Colombia's production of avocados, flowers, and other fresh products is experiencing sustained growth, so the country expects to increase the volume of its exports in the coming years. "We are focused on continuing our expansion and modernization to handle an increasing volume of refrigerated cargo. Our capacity to handle this growing demand is key to the future of Colombian exports," concluded Amor Olaya.
Grupo Puerto de Cartagena will be at the Fruit Attraction fair in Madrid, at ProColombia's stand in Hall 4, Stand 4D04.
For more information:
Martha Amor Olaya
Grupo Puerto de Cartagena
Colombia
Tel: +57 314 512 70 65
Email: [email protected]
www.puertocartagena.com