UN/LOCODE: CMDLA📍 Cameroon
Port of Douala (UN/LOCODE CMDLA)
❖ Coordinates: 4.0511°N, 9.7679°E
❖ Time Zone: Africa/Douala
❖ UN/LOCODE: CMDLA
## About the Port
The Port of Douala, located in the Littoral Region of Cameroon, is a major maritime hub in Central Africa. With the UN/LOCODE CMDLA, it serves as the country's primary gateway for international trade. Situated at 4.0510564 Latitude and 9.7678687 Longitude, the port is strategically positioned to facilitate the exchange of goods between Cameroon and the rest of the world. Operating in the Africa/Douala timezone, the port's activities are synchronized with the regional and global maritime industry.
### Geographical Context
The Port of Douala is nestled in the Wouri River estuary, approximately 24 kilometers from the Gulf of Guinea. This location provides a natural harbor, sheltered from the open sea, and allows for easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. The port's proximity to the city of Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon, further enhances its logistical and commercial appeal.
## History
The history of the Port of Douala dates back to the early 20th century, when it was established as a minor trading post by German colonial powers. Following World War I, Cameroon became a French mandate territory, and the port underwent significant development under French administration. The construction of new infrastructure, including quays, warehouses, and navigation aids, transformed the port into a major commercial center. Since Cameroon's independence in 1960, the Port of Douala has continued to expand and modernize, with investments in container handling facilities, cargo storage, and security systems.
### Colonial Legacy and Modernization
The port's historical development is a testament to the region's strategic importance in international trade. As noted by the World Bank↗, investments in port infrastructure can have a significant impact on a country's economic growth and competitiveness. In recent years, the Port of Douala has undergone significant modernization efforts, aimed at increasing its efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Douala boasts an impressive array of infrastructure and facilities, designed to support a wide range of maritime activities. The port's layout includes:
* A 12-kilometer-long quay, with a total of 18 berths
* A container terminal, equipped with modern handling equipment and a storage capacity of over 10,000 TEUs
* A general cargo terminal, with facilities for bulk and breakbulk cargo
* A tanker terminal, dedicated to the handling of petroleum products and other liquids
* A ship repair yard, offering maintenance and repair services for vessels
### Navigation and Safety
The port is equipped with advanced navigation aids, including a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) and an Automatic Identification System (AIS). These systems enable real-time monitoring of vessel movements, ensuring safe and efficient navigation within the port. Additionally, the port has implemented robust security measures, including access control, surveillance cameras, and a dedicated security personnel.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Douala plays a vital role in Cameroon's economy, accounting for the majority of the country's international trade. The port's activities generate significant revenue, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth in the region. As the primary gateway for imports and exports, the port handles a wide range of cargo, including:
* Agricultural products, such as cocoa, coffee, and bananas
* Minerals, including oil, gas, and timber
* Manufactured goods, such as machinery, electronics, and textiles
### Regional Hub
The Port of Douala serves as a regional hub, connecting Cameroon to neighboring countries, including the Central African Republic, Chad, and the Republic of Congo. The port's strategic location and modern infrastructure make it an attractive transshipment point for cargo destined for landlocked countries in the region.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Douala is connected to major trade routes, including the West Africa Container Line and the Africa-Europe Container Line. The port handles a significant volume of cargo, with major trading partners including:
* Europe, particularly France, Germany, and the Netherlands
* Asia, including China, Japan, and South Korea
* The Americas, with the United States and Brazil being key trading partners
### Cargo Statistics
According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO)↗, the Port of Douala handles over 10 million tons of cargo annually, with containerized cargo accounting for a significant proportion of the total volume. The port's cargo statistics reflect the diversity of Cameroon's economy, with a mix of agricultural products, minerals, and manufactured goods being exported and imported through the port.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
CMDLA
Country
Cameroon
Province / Region
Littoral
Latitude
4.051056
Longitude
9.767869
Timezone
Africa/Douala
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Douala?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Douala is CMDLA.
Where is Port of Douala located?
The Port of Douala is located in Cameroon, Littoral. Its coordinates are 4.0511°N, 9.7679°E.
What time zone is Port of Douala in?
Port of Douala operates in the Africa/Douala time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height0.28 m
Wave Direction223°
Swell Height0.12 m
Data provided by Open-Meteo Marine API
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
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