Puerto Antioquia to Create 1,900 Direct Jobs
2025-07-11
The strategic megaproject in Urabá is expected to begin commercial operations in the second half of this year. Antioquia's governor, Andrés Julián Rendón, confirmed that Puerto Antioquia would generate 1,900 direct jobs and stimulate the creation of more than 800 companies, positioning it as one of Colombia's most important infrastructure projects. "This is Puerto Antioquia, a megaproject running #FullThrottle," said the regional leader, emphasising the project's progress ahead of its upcoming launch. The new maritime terminal, located in the Gulf of Urabá, is 363 kilometres from Medellín and will be the closest port to Colombia's interior. Its infrastructure includes a 3-kilometre access pier, container yards, and refrigerated cargo zones, specifically designed for the export of perishable goods such as bananas, flowers, and Hass avocados—key products of Antioquia's agroindustrial economy.
In its first operational phase, Puerto Antioquia will handle up to 6 million tons of cargo per year, with the capacity to expand over time. Construction began in 2020, and the project is expected to enhance Colombia's competitiveness in foreign trade while reducing logistical times and costs compared to traditional ports like Buenaventura and Cartagena.
The initiative is supported by companies including CMA CGM, Agroban, and the Grupo Puerto de Cartagena, which together form the consortium responsible for driving this development. Funding is provided by institutions such as the National Development Finance (NDF) and BID Invest, ensuring the project's technical and economic viability.
Puerto Antioquia represents a historic opportunity for the sustainable development of Urabá, a region with significant economic and logistical potential that has traditionally received less public and private investment. The project will invigorate the local economy by strengthening logistics chains, tourism, and investment in road infrastructure.
With the launch of this port terminal, Colombia aims to strengthen its position in international markets and transform Antioquia into a strategic logistics hub for the country's foreign trade.
