Mozambique has approved a comprehensive package of maritime regulations aimed at modernizing the country’s shipping laws, enhancing navigation safety, and strengthening the competitiveness of its ports in southern Africa, officials said Wednesday.
The reforms, endorsed at a Council of Ministers meeting, include new rules on maritime aids to navigation and the measurement of vessel tonnage, according to government spokesperson Inocencio Impissa. The measures are designed to replace outdated legislation dating back to 1960, bringing Mozambique’s legal framework in line with international conventions, including those set by the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation.
“The updated regulations establish technical standards for navigable waters along Mozambique’s coastline and areas under national jurisdiction,” Impissa said. “They strengthen maritime safety, improve operational efficiency, and provide clear guidance on vessel capacities and service standards.”
Authorities said the legal overhaul is expected to increase cargo throughput at Mozambique’s key ports, including Maputo, Beira, and Nacala. These ports serve as critical gateways for landlocked countries in southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, making maritime efficiency a key factor in regional trade integration.
By reinforcing operational standards and safety requirements, the reforms are intended to reduce accidents at sea, improve passenger comfort, and ensure smoother logistics for shipping companies. In addition, the government anticipates that increased efficiency will attract foreign investment and generate additional revenue through port fees and service charges.
Mozambique’s strategic coastline, stretching over 2,400 kilometres along the Indian Ocean, plays a central role in southern Africa’s trade corridors. The government said the updated rules will not only facilitate safer navigation but also support broader efforts to modernize infrastructure and logistics, aligning with national economic development goals.
“Efficient ports are vital for Mozambique’s economy and for the region,” Impissa said. “The reforms will reinforce the country’s position as a key transit hub for imports and exports, and they provide greater certainty for shipping companies and investors.”
Industry analysts said the reforms could enhance confidence among international traders and shipping operators, potentially boosting cargo volumes and creating opportunities for private-sector investment in port facilities, logistics, and associated services.
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The legislation also emphasizes environmental safeguards, including standards for vessel operations to reduce pollution risks and improve sustainability. By integrating safety, efficiency, and environmental considerations, Mozambique aims to strengthen both its maritime sector and its contribution to regional economic growth.
The reforms come amid growing competition among southern African ports. Countries such as South Africa and Tanzania have invested heavily in modernizing port infrastructure, while landlocked neighbours increasingly rely on Mozambique’s ports for imports and exports. Authorities said the updated legal framework positions Mozambique to compete effectively and capture a larger share of regional maritime traffic.
Looking ahead, the government plans to continue reviewing related maritime laws and operational procedures to maintain compliance with global best practices. Training programs for port staff and shipping operators are expected to complement the legal reforms, ensuring that personnel can implement the new standards effectively.
With Mozambique’s ports serving as crucial links for regional trade, the government said the updated regulations are a strategic step toward strengthening the country’s maritime sector, boosting economic activity, and improving integration with regional and international markets.
The reforms mark a significant milestone for the country’s logistics and maritime industry, offering a structured and modernized framework to enhance safety, efficiency, and competitiveness across Mozambique’s key ports.
