BTN News: The Grupo Puerto de Cartagena has achieved a remarkable milestone in the history of Colombian international trade. In 2024, the organization set a new record for the highest volume of monthly cargo handled, with an impressive 330,084 containers processed in July alone. This accomplishment underscores the critical role that the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena plays in both the national and international economy, highlighting its unparalleled capacity to manage ever-increasing volumes of cargo despite the challenging global economic environment. This success is a testament to the port’s strategic importance and its consistent ability to adapt and meet the demands of global trade.
Since the beginning of 2024, the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena has shown an unprecedented ability to handle large volumes of cargo. Starting the year with 302,441 containers in January, it surpassed the previous record of 301,807 containers set in August 2021. The momentum continued in March when the port broke another record by handling 311,439 containers. This achievement was again eclipsed in July, with a 6% increase compared to the March figures, pushing the total to 330,084 containers. This consistent growth in cargo volume is not just a number; it reflects the port’s ability to efficiently manage logistical operations, even amidst global uncertainty in the maritime industry.
The impressive performance of the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena is even more significant given the current global challenges affecting the maritime and port sectors. Despite these difficulties, the port has continued to build trust with shipping lines and cargo owners, leading to a preference for its terminals. This preference has solidified the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena’s position as a leader in the region, further cementing its status as a pivotal player in international trade. The organization’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards of service has made it a reliable partner for international commerce and logistics.
Beyond the sheer volume of cargo, the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena has also garnered significant recognition for its operational efficiency. In 2024, it was ranked as the third most efficient port in the world and the leading port in the Americas, according to a ranking by the World Bank and Standard & Poor’s. This prestigious ranking highlights Cartagena’s strategic importance in global trade, positioning it as the top choice for logistics and port operations in the Americas. This achievement not only boosts the port’s reputation but also enhances Colombia’s standing in the global trade network.
Alfonso Salas Trujillo, the manager of Grupo Puerto de Cartagena, expressed his pride in these accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of providing top-tier logistical and port services. He remarked, “Our goal has always been to offer the best possible logistical and port service. The numbers show that we are on the right track. We are honored and pleased that Colombia has a globally competitive port that can boost its foreign trade and improve its economic indicators with the opportunities these achievements provide. We will continue to work towards becoming increasingly relevant in international maritime trade.”
The success of the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena can be attributed to its ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its users. This dedication ensures the continuity of high-quality services, making the port a trusted partner in foreign trade and regional logistics. The organization’s adaptability and focus on customer satisfaction have been key factors in its ability to maintain its leadership position in the industry.
Operating through its two terminals, the Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Cartagena and Contecar, the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena has established itself as the primary logistics and port platform in the Greater Caribbean region. It has been recognized by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) as the port with the highest cargo movement in Latin America and by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) as the port with the highest connectivity in the region. Additionally, it is the main export port of Colombia, further emphasizing its strategic importance.
The Grupo Puerto de Cartagena’s achievements have been widely acknowledged. The port has been awarded the title of Best Port in the Greater Caribbean by the Caribbean Shipping Association ten times. Moreover, it has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Colombia and Latin America by Great Place to Work. In terms of port efficiency, the port ranks first in the Americas and third globally, according to rankings by Standard & Poor’s and the World Bank.
These accolades underscore the crucial role of the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena in international maritime trade and its strategic importance to the Colombian economy. The port’s continuous evolution and dedication to excellence make it a cornerstone of global commerce, contributing significantly to Colombia’s economic growth and its integration into the international market.
