The Port of Cotonou is Benin's main maritime gateway and one of the major ports on the West African coast. Indeed, it handles most of the country's foreign trade and also supplies several landlocked neighbours. This guide traces its history, sets out recent figures and explains why it matters directly to Belgian companies.
From the 1891 wharf to a deep-water port
In the late nineteenth century, heavy surf along the coast kept ships from docking. That is why a metal wharf of about 400 metres went up in 1891 to transfer goods. The deep-water port only came much later. The Port autonome de Cotonou company dates from 31 December 1964, and the port opened on 1 August 1965.
Today the Port autonome de Cotonou is a public limited company with a public majority stake. It employs more than 600 people. In addition, it holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certification, as well as the EcoPort environmental label.
The Port of Cotonou in figures
After a difficult 2024, activity rebounded strongly. According to figures from the port, reported by the business press, traffic moved as follows:
- 2024: about 9.6 million tonnes, because trade with Niger was disrupted.
- 2025: about 14.7 million tonnes, a rise of roughly 52%.
- First half of 2026: 7.79 million tonnes, up 16.6%, while exports grew by 33.3%.
On the export side, cotton, cashew and goods processed in the country rank among the main cargoes. Imports mostly consist of food products, fuel, building materials and vehicles, part of which then moves on to neighbouring countries. These figures are benchmarks, however. For a market study, check the port's latest official statistics.
The port matters to private individuals too. If you are planning your return, your personal belongings will most likely arrive through Cotonou: our guide to moving back to Benin explains the steps.
A gateway to the hinterland
The Port of Cotonou is the natural outlet for Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad and northern Nigeria. Road corridors link Cotonou to Niamey via Malanville, over some 1,000 kilometres, and to Ouagadougou through the north of the country. So transit makes up a large share of port activity.
Since 2023, the overland route to Niger has been cut. In 2026, however, the two countries are discussing the terms for reopening the border. How this develops will of course affect transit volumes. To understand Benin's place in the region, see our page on the geography of Benin.
A partnership with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges
Since 2018, the Beninese State has entrusted the management of the Port of Cotonou to Port of Antwerp-Bruges International, a subsidiary of the Belgian port. The partnership focuses above all on modernisation, governance and skills transfer. It is also one of the most visible economic ties between the two countries. Our article on Belgium Benin cooperation places it within the wider bilateral relationship.
Modernisation and outlook
The port is running a large works programme. By 2028, about a dozen projects should upgrade quays, access roads and logistics areas, for more than 480 billion FCFA. Moreover, the port works hand in hand with the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone, whose container yard connects to the port's IT system. As a result, processed goods such as cotton, cashew or soybeans reach export markets more easily.
These investments fit the growth strategy described in our article on Benin's economy in 2026.
Importing or exporting via Cotonou: practical tips
For a Belgian SME, the Port of Cotonou is often the most direct route to the Beninese market and the Sahel. A few habits make operations smoother:
- First, hand customs clearance to a licensed customs broker in Benin.
- Then check the standards and any import restrictions for your product.
- Finally, prepare consistent trade documents, because formalities go through an electronic single window.
If you must present a Belgian document in Benin, remember the legalisation of documents. Our guide to the growth sectors in Benin also covers logistics.
Frequently asked questions
Who runs the Port of Cotonou?
The State owns the majority of the Port autonome de Cotonou. Since 2018, Port of Antwerp-Bruges International has handled its management.
Which countries depend on this port?
Besides Benin, it mainly serves Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad and northern Nigeria.
Can I visit the port?
No, it is a secure area. However, the city of Cotonou deserves a stop before you head to Ouidah or Ganvié. For your trip, apply for your online visa (e-Visa) on the official platform.
In short, the Port of Cotonou remains Benin's logistics engine and a concrete link with Belgium. If you have questions about your formalities or trade plans, contact Honorary Consulate of Benin in Liège.
Sources
- Port autonome de Cotonou: official presentation of the port
- La Nation: traffic recovery in the second quarter of 2025
- Ecofin Agency: Cotonou port traffic in the first half of 2025
- Nasuba: traffic in the first half of 2026
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