Colombia is moving forward in strengthening its logistics infrastructure with the approval of a new multipurpose maritime port in Cienaga, Magdalena — an initiative that promises to transform cargo transportation in the country by integrating directly with the national rail network. The project, approved in April 2026 by the National Infrastructure Agency, involves an investment of over US$82 million and a 30-year concession.
The terminal will be located in the Magdalena department, in the Caribbean region, and will be developed by Sociedad Portuaria Rio Cordoba S.A. Its design includes a large land area of more than 126,000 square meters and a maritime zone exceeding 10 million square meters, allowing it to handle different types of cargo, from containers to solid bulk, liquids, and hydrocarbons.
This new port will not only expand the country’s port capacity but will also mark a milestone by becoming one of the few terminals with a direct connection to the railway network, facilitating the transport of goods from the interior to the coast.
Multipurpose maritime port in Magdalena: a key project for logistics and competitiveness
The development of this terminal is part of a national strategy aimed at modernizing the transportation system and improving the competitiveness of Colombia’s foreign trade. The rail connection will allow large volumes of cargo to be transported more efficiently, reducing both time and costs compared to traditional road transport.
Intermodality — that is, the integration of maritime and rail transport — stands out as one of the project’s main advantages. This feature will enable smoother export and import operations, especially for productive sectors located inland, which will gain more direct access to international markets.
In addition, it is estimated that over the 30-year concession period, the terminal will be able to handle more than 160 million tons of cargo, positioning Colombia as a strategic hub in Caribbean maritime trade.
Economic, regional, and environmental impact
Beyond its logistical importance, the new port will have a significant impact on the economic development of the Caribbean region. The construction and operation of the terminal will generate jobs and boost the local economy in Ciénaga and surrounding areas, attracting investment and strengthening sectors related to trade and port services.
From an environmental perspective, the project also represents a step toward a more sustainable transportation model. The use of rail as the primary means of cargo transport will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to road transport. It will also contribute to decreasing traffic congestion on the country’s main highways.
Another key aspect is its multipurpose nature, which will allow it to handle various types of goods, from industrial products to energy resources such as metallurgical coal and coke. This versatility expands opportunities for different economic sectors and strengthens Colombia’s export capacity.