Chile's San Antonio Port Expansion Clears Environmental Hurdle

The $4.45 billion San Antonio port expansion in Chile has secured environmental approval and is set to triple cargo capacity. The project includes the construction of a breakwater pier and two terminals, with construction to begin in 2027. The contract will be awarded later this year.

Chile's San Antonio port is set to undergo a $4.45 billion expansion following the approval from the environmental authorities. The expansion aims to significantly increase the port's cargo handling capabilities and is expected to open bids for construction contracts by the end of the year.

The ambitious project plans to construct a breakwater pier spanning approximately 4 kilometers, along with dredging and the development of open areas. Two terminals, measuring 1,730 meters each, will be built in phases based on demand. The port, once expanded, will serve up to eight 400-metre-long Post New Panamax vessels simultaneously.

Empresa Portuaria San Antonio will invest $1.95 billion into this public-private initiative, following the international bidding process kicked off last year. Work on associated infrastructure is projected to start in 2027, with unanimous approval from Chile's Valparaiso region's Environmental Assessment Commission.