The Tunisian Company for Loading and Unloading (Société Tunisienne de Chargement et de Déchargement, STCUD) is preparing to enhance its fleet with three new port cranes of the type "Konecranes Gottwald". These cranes are currently being equipped at the port of Antwerp, Belgium, and are expected to arrive at Radès Port between late November and early December 2026. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to update handling equipment at Tunisian ports and improve their operational capabilities.
The new cranes are expected to improve the handling of containers, reduce waiting times and stay periods for ships at the port, and lower logistical costs. This, in turn, is anticipated to enhance the competitiveness of Tunisia's foreign trade. The STCUD is responsible for loading and unloading operations at several commercial ports in Tunisia and manages the container terminal at Radès Port. According to data from the Transport Sector's Open Data Portal, the company handles approximately 69% of the total goods passing through Tunisian commercial sea ports.
The acquisition of the new cranes comes on the back of a positive trend in the activity of Tunisian commercial ports during the first half of 2026. According to data published by the Maritime Trade and Ports Authority, the total volume of goods handled at these ports reached around 14.8 million tons, representing a 7.28% increase compared to the same period last year. The number of containers handled also rose by 9.87% to 280,691 units.
Furthermore, the handling of general goods increased by 13.95%, while the movement of mobile units grew by 7.55%. Radès Port, being a key hub for container traffic and foreign trade in Tunisia, is expected to benefit significantly from the new cranes. The port's improved handling capacity will likely support the continued growth of Tunisia's trade activities.
The STCUD's efforts to modernize its equipment and improve efficiency are crucial for Tunisia's maritime trade and logistics sector. As the country's main port operator, the company plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and promoting economic growth. The new cranes will contribute to this effort by enhancing the port's operational capabilities and reducing costs.
The investment in new port cranes is part of a broader strategy to develop Tunisia's port infrastructure and improve the country's competitiveness in the global market. By modernizing its ports and enhancing their efficiency, Tunisia aims to attract more foreign investment and increase its trade volumes.
The expected arrival of the new cranes at Radès Port marks an important milestone in the development of Tunisia's port sector. With improved handling capacity and efficiency, the port is well-positioned to support the country's growing trade activities and contribute to its economic growth.
Key points
- The new cranes will improve the handling of containers and reduce waiting times for ships at Radès Port.
- The acquisition of the new cranes is part of a broader strategy to modernize Tunisian ports and improve their operational efficiency.
- The investment in new port cranes aims to enhance Tunisia's competitiveness in the global market and attract more foreign investment.
