Last week, container ship CMA CGM FIORDLAND became the first large container vessel to berth at Puerto Antioquia, a newly developed deep‑water terminal on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Designed as a multipurpose facility with a focus on refrigerated exports, the port introduces modern equipment and updated logistics procedures.

The terminal reduces inland transport distances to major Colombian consumption areas and enhances export competitiveness for agricultural products.

Its location on Bahía Colombia near the Port of Turbo provides direct access to key agricultural and industrial regions, including Medellín and Bogotá, cutting inland journeys by up to half compared with existing Atlantic ports.

Puerto Antioquia incorporates a deep draft and direct quayside operations to improve the reliability and efficiency of supply chains.

Its multipurpose design supports the handling of dry and refrigerated containers, bulk cargo, and vehicles. The facility also includes additional services such as bunkering and ship supply.

Construction began in 2022 and featured an offshore platform linked to the onshore yard by a 3.8‑kilometre viaduct.

The terminal is designed for vessels of up to 15,000 TEUs and includes equipment such as three STS cranes, eight electric RTGs, 1,300 reefer plugs, and a range of supporting machinery. On‑site security and anti‑narcotics inspections are also provided.

The development of Puerto Antioquia has generated employment opportunities during both construction and operational phases.

It also complements the CMA CGM Group’s portfolio of 64 terminals worldwide, marking a strategic milestone for its activities in Latin America.