Sudan Partners with China Harbour to Modernize Port Infrastructure

PORT SUDAN, July 7, 2026 - Sudan has signed a cooperation agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to upgrade port infrastructure, modernize equipment, and strengthen the country’s position as a regional trade hub. The memorandum of understanding was signed by the Sudanese Sea Ports Corporation (SPC) in Beijing, with the participation of Sudan’s Ambassador to China, Omer Issa. The agreement aims to address long-standing operational challenges at the Port of Port Sudan, which have affected its ability to accommodate large vessels and expand transshipment activities. The planned projects include the modernization of port equipment, including gantry cranes, the improvement of digital and information systems, and the development of new seaport facilities. Officials said the partnership is expected to increase operational efficiency, improve the competitiveness of Sudanese ports, and support economic growth by expanding transit trade opportunities. The agreement follows recent improvements at Port Sudan’s Southern Port, where the container terminal received large container ships for the first time, a move authorities said strengthened confidence among international shipping operators. However, Sudan’s main maritime gateway still requires major expansion, including deeper berths and increased capacity to meet the needs of modern global shipping. The port currently has nearly 1,478 metres of berthing space and storage areas covering around 1.48 million square metres, capacities considered limited compared with major international ports. The government hopes the infrastructure partnership with China will help transform Port Sudan into a more competitive regional logistics centre and strengthen Sudan’s role in international trade.