Despite the difficulties and disappointments of 2024, largely due to circumstances beyond its control, the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique (GPMLM) closed the year in triumph.Two major accomplishments stood out: the rehabilitation of the Bassin de Radoub shipyard after three years of inactivity, and the launch of the Hub Antilles project, which is set to transform the port into a sustainable logistics hub.
In 2025, the focus in Martinique will be on developing the strategic plan for the next five years. Five major initiatives are set to be launched. The improvement of logistical equipment will require a €36 million investment to cover acquisition of next-generation gantry cranes, increasing vessel handling capacity, and strengthening the terminal’s overall attractiveness. Creation of a Border Control Post and Green Energy production are also high on the port’s 2025 agenda.
In response to questions posed in a Portside Caribbean survey, the following responses were received from Martinique.
What were the main achievements in 2024?
The year 2024 marked a key milestone for the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique with two major accomplishments.
The rehabilitation of the Shipyard Bassin de Radoub, after three years of inactivity, has revitalised a strategic industrial asset. Carried out with an investment of €8 million (Euro), this modernisation, compliant with environmental standards, has transformed it into a competitive hub for ship repair. This project strengthens local capabilities while stimulating the regional economy. It was conducted in partnership with the Chantier Naval de la Martinique, comprising the PIRIOU group, Sud Moteurs, and Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
Additionally, the launch of the ambitious Hub Antilles project, supported by an investment of €122 million, reflects GPMLM’s commitment to developing a low-carbon container terminal. With modernised infrastructure, including the commissioning of two dolphins and the initiation of Smartgrid works, the project aims to transform the port into a sustainable logistics hub while strengthening its role as a regional hub for maritime trade.
What were the main disappointments in 2024?
Despite our successes, we encountered unexpected delays in the relaunch of the construction market for creating two hectares of storage areas. These setbacks, although managed, required adjustments to maintain our overall objectives.
Furthermore, 2024 was marked by a tense socio-economic context in Martinique, exacerbated by social movements against the high cost of living. These tensions led to port blockades, severe incidents such as cargo theft, and acts of vandalism that significantly damaged port infrastructure. These disruptions not only had a direct financial impact, but slowed the implementation of several projects, requiring additional efforts to restore normal activity and maintain the confidence of our economic partners.
What were the most valuable lessons learned in 2024?
The year 2024 reminded us of the importance of agility and resilience in managing large-scale projects. The challenges we faced strengthened our ability to anticipate uncertainties and adapt our strategies while staying on course toward our ambitions. Moreover, our close collaboration with partners highlighted that synergy is a significant asset in overcoming logistical and environmental challenges.
What are the main objectives for 2025?
In 2025, GPMLM will focus on developing its strategic plan for the next five years. However, three major strategic priorities already guide our actions:
• Enhancing the logistical performance of the container terminal through modern equipment and optimised flow management.
• Developing the port’s hinterland to maximise local economic benefits by promoting the establishment of high-value-added activities.
• Accelerating the ecological transition with ambitious projects to reduce CO2 emissions and promote sustainability in all operations.
What are the significant projects/initiatives planned for 2025?
In 2025, several flagship initiatives will be launched:
• Improvement of logistical equipment: An investment of €36 million will be allocated to deploying next-generation gantry cranes, increasing vessel handling capacity and strengthening the terminal’s attractiveness.
• Creation of a Border Control Post (BCP): With a budget of €2 million, this infrastructure will enable phytosanitary controls directly at the terminal, facilitating trade with Europe and boosting local activities.
• Maritime incubator: The port is part of a broader program to support the development of a Martinican digital sector in collaboration with the CTM and the State. As part of this initiative, it is launching an incubator dedicated to innovative start-ups, with a particular focus on renewable marine energies and decarbonised maritime transport.
• Green energy production: Installation of solar panels and storage batteries to produce up to 46% of the port’s energy consumption from renewable sources.
• Marine environment protection: This project includes measures to preserve affected coral colonies and promote their sustainable development. Furthermore, the quay extension to accommodate two ships simultaneously requires pile driving, which generates underwater noise disturbances. To minimise the impact on cetaceans, several initiatives have been implemented. 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 behavioural study is being conducted to map the presence and vocalisations of cetaceans, providing a better understanding of their habits and enabling adjustments to maritime traffic to minimise its impact.
What concerns or challenges could affect your organisation’s performance in 2025?
One of the main concerns for 2025 remains managing the social impacts of movements against the high cost of living, which could disrupt port activities. Additionally, balancing economic growth with environmental concerns will be a constant challenge, requiring enhanced coordination among all stakeholders.
The necessity to increase the port’s resilience to the effects of climate change adds another layer of complexity. Extreme weather events, such as cyclones or rising sea levels, could weaken infrastructure and disrupt operations. To this end, vulnerability studies of port sites have been initiated in collaboration with CEREMA. These studies result in operational action plans to ensure the sustainability of port activities within the context of ecological transition.