The second edition of the Transport Logistics Cotonou (TLC2) meeting took place in Cotonou, Benin, from November 12 to 14. The event brought together professionals from the transport and logistics sectors to discuss ways to improve the fluidity and reliability of West African trade corridors. The meeting was organized by the Cotonou Autonomous Port (PAC), Classe Export, and the Association of Customs Commissioners and Maritime Actors (ACAM). This year's theme was "Corridors, port, digital: building a fluid and reliable logistics system for West Africa."
The Cotonou Autonomous Port is working to strengthen its role as a logistics hub for West Africa. According to Kevin Potier, the port's commercial and marketing director, improving connectivity is crucial. The port is focusing on enhancing links with neighboring countries, including Niger, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. One of the key projects is the development of a corridor from Cotonou to Malanville, which will improve road transport and facilitate trade.
The port's strategy is part of a broader development plan that aims to modernize and diversify its services. The plan, which was launched in 2010, seeks to make the port a "Swiss Army knife" that can offer a range of services to the Beninese economy and neighboring countries. This includes improving infrastructure, digitalizing procedures, and reducing transit times for goods.
The European Union supports the port's development plan through its Global Gateway strategy, which aims to improve infrastructure and access to global markets. The EU has identified the Cotonou Port and two of its corridors as key areas for development. Joël Neubert, head of EU cooperation in Benin, emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure and logistics to boost regional trade.
The TLC2 meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the logistics sector. Jacob Sagbohan, country representative of Classe Export, highlighted the importance of the meeting in promoting the PAC's initiatives and improving the business environment. Operators, such as Soumaïla Saïbou from RATCO Transit, welcomed the initiative, saying it demonstrates the port's commitment to improving its services.
The meeting also brought together experts to discuss topics such as digitalization, traceability, and professional training. The event included workshops, masterclasses, and B2B meetings. The organizers aim to publish a magazine, Cotonou Trade & Logistics, starting in January 2027, which will provide updates on the port's development and logistics trends in the region.
The TLC2 meeting aims to build on the success of the first edition, which attracted over 350 professionals from four countries. This year's event targets around 1,000 participants and 40 to 45 exhibitors from 10 countries. The meeting demonstrates the port's commitment to becoming a major logistics hub in West Africa and improving regional trade corridors.
Key points
- Cotonou Autonomous Port aims to strengthen its role as a logistics hub for West Africa by improving connectivity and digitalization.
