Peru has achieved a significant milestone in its maritime infrastructure with the inauguration of Stage 3A of the North Terminal modernization project at the Port of Callao.
Spearheaded by APM Terminals Callao in collaboration with the Peruvian government, this US$95 million phase marks a notable advancement in port operations establishing Callao as South America’s fastest grain unloading terminal.
The unveiling ceremony, held on 17 July, brought together national officials, industry leaders, and logistics stakeholders, underlining the terminal’s growing strategic role in supporting Peru’s food supply chain, including the poultry and animal nutrition sectors.
At the core of this development are 12 cutting-edge vertical silos, expanding grain storage capacity from 25,000 to 85,000 tonnes. Complementing this are two newly installed Continuous Ship Unloaders, which increase grain unloading speeds from 900 to 1,300 tonnes per hour.
This significant enhancement is expected to reduce vessel turnaround times and improve service efficiency.
Carlos Arias, CEO of APM Terminals Callao, stated the vertical silo design and gravity-based discharge system not only boost capacity and safety but also improve energy efficiency demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and high-performing operations.
In a groundbreaking move for gender inclusion, APM Terminals announced that the new CSU equipment will be operated exclusively by women reinforcing its commitment to gender equity in the traditionally male-dominated maritime sector.
Stage 3A also includes crucial infrastructure enhancements: paving of 2.13 hectares for improved cargo flow, a newly established Gate No. 3 dedicated to rolling and oversized cargo, and the installation of eight weighbridges, effectively doubling the terminal’s entry capacity.
This modernization phase is part of a larger six-stage concession framework between APM Terminals Callao and the Peruvian State, with a total projected investment of US$1.2 billion.
With Stage 3A completed, the project advances to Stage 3B, which will include dock reconstruction, new-generation cranes, and an additional US$328 million in investments.
Arias added that these are not merely technical upgrades, but also strategic tools to integrate Peru more deeply into global trade networks.
As Peru’s principal gateway for trade, the Port of Callao continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic trajectory. With the successful completion of Stage 3A, Callao strengthens its position as a regional logistics powerhouse.
