Cotonou Port Extends Goods Removal to 24/7 Operations

In Benin, the Port Autonome de Cotonou announced that, effective Saturday, October 24, 2026, all entities involved in cargo clearance at the port will operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and public holidays. This significant operational change, communicated via a note from the port's general management, aims to enhance efficiency and streamline the process of merchandise removal, addressing long-standing challenges related to port congestion and delays.

This move carries substantial legal and economic significance for businesses engaged in international trade, logistics, and supply chain management within Benin and the broader West African sub-region. The shift to 24/7 operations is expected to drastically reduce cargo dwell times, minimize demurrage charges, and improve the overall competitiveness of the Port of Cotonou. For practitioners, this means advising clients on potential adjustments to their logistics strategies, contractual agreements with shipping lines and freight forwarders, and compliance with new operational schedules that will impact labor management and customs procedures.

The Port Autonome de Cotonou operates under the regulatory framework of the Beninese government, governed by specific laws and decrees pertaining to port administration, customs, and international trade. While the announcement appears to be an administrative directive from the port's general management, its implementation will necessitate close coordination and potential adjustments across various governmental agencies, including customs, police, and health services, as well as private sector stakeholders. This operational change, though not a legislative act, will have far-reaching effects that may require amendments to existing service level agreements and operational protocols.

The key parties involved in this operational overhaul include the general management of the Port Autonome de Cotonou, which issued the directive, and all structures implicated in the cargo clearance process. This encompasses customs authorities, shipping companies, freight forwarders, stevedoring companies, and other logistics providers. The success of this initiative will depend on the seamless integration and cooperation of these diverse public and private sector actors to ensure continuous service delivery.

Legal professionals advising businesses involved in import, export, or transit through the Port of Cotonou must promptly inform their clients about this critical operational shift. They should review existing contracts for clauses related to port operations, delivery timelines, and potential liabilities arising from delays, and advise on necessary amendments or renegotiations. Furthermore, practitioners should guide clients on adapting their supply chain management, staffing, and operational compliance to leverage the benefits of 24/7 port access, while also anticipating any unforeseen challenges or regulatory adjustments that may arise from this continuous service model.