Rades Port, Tunisia's Main Port, Now Ranks 13th in Africa and 251st Globally in Terms of Port Performance
According to the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) published by the World Bank and S&P Global, Rades Port has experienced a significant decline in its ranking, previously holding a better position on the international scene. This downgrade highlights the challenges Tunisia faces in remaining competitive in regional maritime trade.
Experts attribute this decline to several structural factors, including:
- Aging infrastructure
- Inefficient administrative management
- Low maritime connectivity
The processing time for ships at Rades Port is estimated to be 86% above the international average, directly impacting its performance and ability to attract more container traffic.
Despite its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, the port struggles to compete with neighboring, more modern infrastructure, such as:
- Tanger Med in Morocco, ranked 4th globally
- Port Said in Egypt
These ports benefit from advanced management systems and high-performance logistics equipment, enabling them to capture a significant share of regional maritime traffic and become essential hubs for international trade.
Analysts emphasize that increased investment and urgent modernization are essential for Rades Port. Developing modern port infrastructure, optimizing administrative procedures, and improving connectivity with land transport networks could significantly enhance the competitiveness of the Tunisian port.
For Tunisia's economic sector, this development is of strategic importance. Rades Port remains a critical point for the country's import-export activities, particularly for:
- Agro-food industries
- Manufactured products
- Raw materials
The port's efficiency directly influences the competitiveness of Tunisian businesses in regional and international markets.
In response to this situation, Tunisian authorities are urged to accelerate reforms and mobilize necessary resources to improve the port's performance. A modernization plan, including public-private partnerships and investments in digitalization and logistics, appears to be a key solution to strengthen Rades' position and stimulate national economic development.
