Port of Callao in Crisis Due to Overcapacity

Cargo ships are facing lengthy delays at the various docks of the Port of Callao, unable to unload containers or bulk goods, triggering a severe logistics crisis that is impacting Peru’s foreign trade, according to Rafael Zacnich, Economic Studies Manager at Comex Peru.

In an interview with Correo, Zacnich explained that the crisis stems from both global and local factors. The primary issue, he noted, is the increase in vessel arrivals at Callao, which has overwhelmed its already saturated terminals.

The National Infrastructure Development Association (AFIN) highlighted that global shipping routes are being reconfigured, contributing to congestion at Callao, as well as at ports like Manzanillo (Mexico) and others in Latin America and Europe.

Global and Local Challenges

Zacnich emphasized that geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East, have disrupted global shipping routes and exacerbated port congestion.

However, he also pointed out that local inefficiencies have worsened the situation. “The Antepuerto del Callao, a platform designed to streamline truck access to the port, has been under construction for 10 years and remains unfinished,” he said.

The logistical bottleneck is creating significant challenges for Peruvian foreign trade. Delays in removing imported goods, caused by a lack of available storage facilities, are also holding up the shipment of export cargo.

“This situation is expected to have a considerable impact on costs, although the exact amount has yet to be determined,” Zacnich stated.

Potential Solutions: Redirecting to Chancay

In response to the crisis, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism has called a meeting today at its San Isidro headquarters with all stakeholders involved in foreign trade, including SUNAT (Peru’s customs authority) and business associations like Comex Peru.

“The meeting aims to implement measures to ease the situation, such as redirecting cargo initially bound for Callao to the Port of Chancay. However, this would require adjustments to existing permits,” Zacnich explained.

AFIN also noted that anomalous ocean swells in the region have led to temporary port closures, further delaying vessel operations and compounding the congestion.

The crisis underscores the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and operational reforms at the Port of Callao to handle growing trade volumes efficiently.

Source: Diario Correo – Peru

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