Classification of the Port of Djibouti in the CPPI 2023, at the heart of discussions during the visit of a World Bank delegation to Djibouti

On Tuesday 18 June, a strategic meeting was held between a high-level government delegation from Djibouti and a World Bank delegation led by Mr Nicolas Peltier-Thiberge, Global Director of Transport. The Djibouti delegation included the Ministers of Economy, Finance and Industry, Infrastructure and Public Works, Trade and Tourism, Budget, as well as the Chairman of the Djibouti Port and Free Zone Authority.

Discussions focused on strengthening the partnership between Djibouti and the World Bank, with particular emphasis on the situation of the Port of Djibouti, notably its ranking in the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI). This ranking, published annually by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, measures the time spent by ships in ports.

Legitimate concerns were expressed during the discussions about the interpretation of the decline of the Port of Djibouti in this ranking. This drop appears to be largely the result of external factors independent of the port, and could be linked, for example, to the security situation in the Red Sea and the exceptional and additional verification, inspection and authorisation procedures required for cargo bound for Yemen, which have been tightened from September 2023. This drop should therefore be interpreted with caution, in terms of the performance of the port of Djibouti.

The World Bank delegation also visited container handling facilities at the Port of Djibouti and met with local officials to gain a better understanding of port operations. Despite the disruption in 2023, the port saw a significant increase in container traffic in the second half of the year, reinforcing its strategic position for the region’s shipping companies.

The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Port of Djibouti, known for its performance and importance for global trade and connectivity with the African continent. The partnership aims to support Djibouti’s priorities for inclusive growth, employment, human capital development and regional connectivity through initiatives to improve infrastructure and promote economic corridors.

Technical exchanges between the World Bank and the Djibouti authorities will continue in the coming days to strengthen cooperation and support Djibouti’s sustainable development.