Next generation gantry cranes to be acquired

Implementation of several projects and scheduled upgrades, components of a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan, will make 2025 a busy year for Martinique’s port sector.

Foremost projects included in the development works slated for 2025 at the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique (GPMLM) include:

  • Improvement of logistical equipment;
  • Creation of a Border Control Post;
  • Launch of a maritime incubator;
  • Green energy production; and,
  • Marine environment protection

In revealing to Portside Caribbean components of its 5-year strategic plan, the GPMLM listed three priority objectives that will guide the process. including: (i) enhancing the logistical performance of the container terminal with modern equipment and optimised flow management; (ii) development of the port’s hinterland so as to maximise local economic benefits (by promoting high-value-added activities); and, (iii) acceleration of projects to reduce CO2 emissions and promote sustainability in all operations.

Immediate priorities 2025

The GPMLM plans to make an investment of €36 million (Euro) in acquiring next-generation gantry cranes. This will significantly improve Martinique’s vessel-handling capacity while enhancing the port’s efficiency and reputation.

A budget of €2 million has been earmarked for the creation of a Border Control Post (BCP). This infrastructure is expected to enable phytosanitary controls directly at the terminal thus facilitating trade with Europe.

The GPMLM is a participant in an initiative to develop a Martinican digital sector. In this regard the port, in collaboration with the Territorial Community of Martinique (CTM) and the State, will be actively engaged in launching “a maritime incubator dedicated to innovative startups”. This initiative will focus on “renewable marine energies” and “decarbonized maritime transport”.

Environment protection

Green energy production is a priority for Martinique in 2025. Plans in this regard include acquisition and installation of solar panels and storage batteries. The initial objective is production of almost half (45%) of the port’s energy requirements from renewable sources. But this is not all that is planned for protecting the marine environment.

Plans include strategies to preserve coral colonies already affected and to promote sustainable development. A quay extension to accommodate two ships simultaneously requires pile driving, which generates underwater noise disturbances. In order to minimize the impact on cetaceans, including dolphins, porpoises and whales several initiatives have already been implemented. In this regard, written information obtained from the GPMLM was enlightening.

“A progressive protocol reduces noise intensity, with active bay monitoring by observers tasked with detecting marine mammals. An innovative bubble curtain system has also been deployed, significantly reducing underwater noise. In parallel, an in-depth behavioral study is being conducted to map the presence and vocalizations of cetaceans, providing a better understanding of their habits and enabling adjustments to maritime traffic to minimize its impact.” []

  • First published: 2025 January 10

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