Puerto Antioquia makes the first export of Colombian coffee from Urabá

Puerto Antioquia achieved a historic milestone on Thursday, July 16, 2026, with the first exportation of Colombian coffee from the Urabá region. The operation marks a new chapter in the country’s logistics and trade infrastructure, opening up fresh opportunities for one of Colombia's most vital agricultural exports. The export was conducted in coordination with the shipping company Maersk Line, following authorization granted by the National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN) through Resolution No. 7995 issued on June 4, 2026. This approval came after Puerto Antioquia successfully passed a technical evaluation carried out by the National Federation of Coffee Growers (Federación Nacional de Cafeteros). The terminal, which began commercial operations in February 2026, has been steadily building its track record. Thirteen days prior to the coffee export, the port announced having handled its 100th container ship, a major logistical achievement. That milestone was reached on July 4 with the arrival of the vessel POLAR MEXICO, operated by Maersk. The port’s vice president of Operations, Gilberto Peña, highlighted this accomplishment as evidence of the facility’s functionality and growing influence in regional trade. The coffee export itself followed extensive preparation efforts. According to statements from Puerto Antioquia’s administration, the operation involved receiving the first trucks carrying green coffee beans from the National Federation of Coffee Growers. The shipment was processed using the Less than Container Load (LCL) method, allowing smaller quantities of coffee to be consolidated into containers for international transport. This approach offers greater flexibility and efficiency compared to traditional bulk shipments. Infrastructure at Puerto Antioquia has been specifically designed to handle coffee exports. The port features a specialized warehouse capable of storing up to 18,000 bags of coffee, equivalent to approximately 1,260 tons, divided into 57 lots. This setup ensures segregation and traceability of each batch, supported by continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity levels, closed-circuit television surveillance, container scanners, and specialized handling equipment. Security measures include collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Police to ensure compliance with all regulations. The port also boasts six loading docks and six unloading berths, along with a quality control laboratory operated by Almacafé and offices of the National Federation of Coffee Growers. Additional services such as labeling, bag marking, conversion to Big Bags, and fumigation are available to meet international standards. These facilities collectively enhance the port’s ability to manage coffee exports efficiently and safely. The process of authorizing Puerto Antioquia as a coffee export hub required meeting stringent technical and operational requirements set by the National Federation of Coffee Growers. Silvio Bedoya Flores, an inspector from the federation, emphasized that new maritime terminals must adhere to specific criteria before obtaining approval from the DIAN. He noted that the federation had supported Puerto Antioquia over the past two years and viewed the new port as a boost to competitiveness and service offerings for Colombian coffee exporters. Maersk, which played a key role in facilitating the export, expressed confidence in the significance of the operation. Jesús Tiburcio, Head of Commercial for Maersk in Central America, the Andean Region, and the Caribbean, stated that the export strengthens connectivity with global markets and enhances the efficiency of the logistics chain for exporters. The successful export represents more than just a logistical breakthrough. It underscores the strategic importance of Puerto Antioquia as a regional hub for coffee production and distribution. By providing a closer alternative to traditional ports, the terminal aims to reduce transportation costs and improve the competitiveness of Colombian coffee in international markets. With continued investment and expansion, the port could become a pivotal node in the country’s agricultural export network.