The Port of Lomé, Togo’s main maritime hub and now ranked as Africa’s fourth busiest container port, is gaining fresh attention from the United States as it emerges as a key access point for American businesses entering African markets.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Lomé, the port’s deep-water access and advanced infrastructure offer significant trade potential for American companies.
On Sunday, July 21, Chargé d’Affaires Joann Lockard Michaels led a tour of the Lomé Port and the Lomé Container Terminal, meeting with port authorities and local stakeholders to identify investment opportunities for the U.S. private sector.
The embassy emphasized that the port’s cutting-edge equipment and strategic location make it a strong candidate for boosting U.S.-Africa trade.
“With advanced deep-water capabilities and modern logistics infrastructure, the Port of Lomé presents unmatched access for U.S. companies looking to expand their footprint across Africa,” the Embassy stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
This outreach is part of a wider U.S. initiative to strengthen economic ties in West Africa by leveraging vital infrastructure for improved bilateral trade.
The Embassy is also encouraging American companies to reach out for tailored support and business insights.
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Over the years, the Port of Lomé has steadily grown in importance, helped by its tax-free logistics zone, stable political environment, and prime location on the West African Atlantic coast.
It has also maintained a spot on the list of the world’s top 100 container ports for four straight years, climbing to 93rd in 2024 from 94th in 2023.
As Togo’s main port, Lomé plays a central role in the country’s economy.
Maritime trade accounts for about 70 percent of economic activity and more than 75 percent of national tax revenue.
Beyond national borders, the port serves as a vital transshipment center for several landlocked countries in the region, including Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali.
In 2024, the port recorded slight growth in cargo traffic, moving 30.64 million tonnes compared to 30.09 million tonnes the year before.
The increased U.S. interest comes as Washington steps up its commercial diplomacy in Africa, competing with China and other global powers for influence and economic partnerships across the continent.
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Image Credit: Business Day
