The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) has awarded the contract for the development and implementation of a Port Community System (PCS) to Kalé Logistics Solutions, marking a major step in the Port of Maputo's digital transformation and strengthening Mozambique's position as a strategic trade and logistics gateway for Southern Africa.

The project is part of the Government of Mozambique's wider digital transformation agenda aimed at modernizing the country's transport and trade infrastructure.

Once operational, the PCS will provide a single digital platform linking all key stakeholders within the maritime and logistics value chain, enabling secure information sharing, automated processes, improved cargo visibility, and real-time collaboration.

The digital platform is expected to significantly improve cargo clearance, reduce administrative bottlenecks, lower logistics costs, and enhance the efficiency of transit cargo moving through the Port of Maputo to neighbouring countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Botswana.

The system will integrate shipping lines, terminal operators, customs authorities, freight forwarders, transport companies, warehouse operators, regulators, banks, and other logistics service providers into one interconnected digital ecosystem.

It will also interface with existing platforms, including the Customs Single Window, Terminal Operating Systems, Vessel Traffic Management Systems, and electronic payment systems, creating a seamless end-to-end digital trade environment.

Speaking during the announcement, Mozambique's Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, described the initiative as a critical milestone in improving the country's competitiveness in regional and international trade.

"Digital transformation is no longer an option; it is a prerequisite for competitiveness. The Port Community System represents a strategic step towards a more integrated, efficient, and transparent logistics ecosystem, fully aligned with the government's vision for the modernization of transport and trade facilitation. As Mozambique's first Port Community System, this initiative positions the Port of Maputo as a pioneer and lays the foundation for the digital evolution of our national logistics network," he said.

MPDC Chief Executive Officer Osório Lucas said the PCS supports the company's vision of developing a smart, connected, and efficient port capable of meeting the growing demands of regional and international commerce.

"The implementation of the PCS aligns with our vision of creating a smarter, more connected, and efficient port ecosystem. By enabling real-time collaboration and information sharing among stakeholders, we are strengthening the Port of Maputo's role as a strategic gateway for regional and international trade," he said.

Lucas added that the company appreciates the government of Mozambique's support in developing a digital platform that will prepare the country for the next generation of global trade and logistics.

Kalé Logistics Solutions described the award as another significant milestone in its growing African digital trade portfolio.

"This award reinforces our commitment to supporting digital trade transformation across Africa," said Vineet Malhotra, Director and Co-Founder of Kalé Logistics Solutions.

"We are honoured to be selected by MPDC for this strategic project. Together with our Air Cargo Community System and our expanding presence across the continent, the Maputo PCS strengthens our position as a provider of integrated digital trade facilitation solutions. We look forward to working closely with MPDC and all stakeholders to establish the Port of Maputo as one of Southern Africa's leading digital trade gateways."

The PCS will support a comprehensive range of port operations, including vessel management, import and export processing, transshipment, cabotage services, truck and rail movements, customs and regulatory compliance, warehouse management, and performance monitoring.

Kalé Logistics Solutions has implemented digital trade facilitation systems across more than 150 airports and ports in over 50 countries.

The company is also partnering with governments in Oman, Benin, Brunei, and Malaysia to deploy next-generation digital platforms designed to modernize maritime trade, improve supply chain efficiency, and facilitate seamless cross-border commerce.

The Maputo PCS is expected to accelerate cargo movement, enhance supply chain visibility, and strengthen the Port of Maputo's competitiveness as regional trade volumes continue to grow under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other regional integration initiatives.