CTA Calls for Major Shift in Freight Transport Model

Mozambique’s Confederation of Business Associations (CTA) is advocating for a significant transition in the country’s freight transport model, proposing coastal shipping as a primary alternative to road transport. The organization suggests that shifting toward maritime logistics could reduce high costs, improve regional economic integration, and enhance the overall efficiency of goods movement.

António Souza, Chair of the CTA’s Infrastructure Portfolio, discussed the proposal during a seminar titled “From Asphalt to Sea: Coastal Shipping, Competitiveness, and National Logistics Transformation.” The event was hosted by the National Institute of Maritime Transport (ITRANSMAR, IP) at the 61st Maputo International Fair (FACIM 2026).

According to Souza, establishing regular maritime links between the northern, central, and southern regions would allow the country to utilize the sea as a strategic logistics component, thereby decreasing the current reliance on road networks. He described coastal shipping as a viable and necessary measure for national economic development.

Participants at the seminar reached a consensus that a predictable and efficient maritime freight network is essential for meeting private sector requirements and boosting national competitiveness. The discussion highlighted several operational challenges that must be addressed to make this transition feasible, including the need to reduce port waiting times and lower operating costs.

The group also identified the necessity of establishing competitive pricing structures to incentivize businesses to move cargo from roads to sea routes. Furthermore, attendees emphasized that streamlining administrative processes, such as licensing, docking, and cargo handling, is critical to increasing efficiency.

The proposed vision for the country’s logistics sector involves an integrated approach that combines sea, road, and rail transport. Proponents argue that this multimodal strategy would create a more predictable and cost-effective environment for businesses, ultimately strengthening the Mozambican economy.

Article source: allafrica.com | Image credit: CLUB OF MOZAMBIQUE