In August, DP World celebrated two decades of operations at the Callao port in Peru, a milestone that underscores its significant investments in infrastructure development and enhanced operational capacity, transforming the port into a vital hub for international trade in the region.
Major Investments and Operational Milestones
Since commencing operations in Callao in 2006, DP World has invested approximately $1 billion (around AED 3.67 billion) to expand the port’s infrastructure, modernise equipment, and integrate advanced technologies. Over the past two decades, the container terminal has handled more than 22 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
In 2025, the terminal achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing the handling of two million TEUs within a single year for the first time. This volume was equivalent to the total handled by all Peruvian ports combined a decade ago, according to DP World.
Leading Role in Peru’s Container Trade
Currently, DP World’s Callao terminal manages approximately 60% of total container traffic in Peru, establishing itself as the primary gateway for container trade in the country. This strategic position connects Peruvian businesses with global shipping networks.
Carlos Merino, CEO of DP World for Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, highlighted the company’s collaborative efforts over the past 20 years with clients, employees, government partners, and the logistics sector to strengthen Peru’s linkage to global commerce. He stated that these investments have transformed Callao into a global gateway that supports business, generates job opportunities, and contributes to the country’s economic growth.
Infrastructure Expansion and Trade Dynamics
In 2024, DP World completed a $400 million (about AED 1.46 billion) expansion at Callao, which included the opening of a new dock, increasing the terminal’s annual capacity to 2.7 million TEUs. This expansion allows the port to accommodate larger vessels and enhances operational efficiency and reliability.
By 2025, Callao became the first terminal on the west coast of South America to exceed the milestone of two million TEUs in a single year, reflecting the growing trade volumes through the terminal and solidifying its position within regional commerce.
Supporting Peru’s Economy
DP World’s operations at Callao have a substantial impact on Peru’s economy, supporting approximately $23.6 billion (around AED 86.6 billion) in annual economic activity, alongside the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the country. From January to May 2026, the terminal handled 48% of Peru’s exports and 61% of its imports, as reported by the company.
Key export products passing through the terminal include grapes, avocados, and pomegranates, all of which are linked to international markets in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
Alongside operational expansions, DP World continues to invest in reducing emissions and increasing reliance on clean energy. Recent initiatives include the introduction of 36 electric internal transport vehicles and the establishment of an electric vehicle charging station, the first of its kind in Latin America. Additionally, nearly the entire fleet of yard cranes at the terminal is now powered by electricity. In 2024, DP World became the first port operator in Peru to receive the “Peru Trade Mark” license, recognising the terminal’s role in international trade and support for national exports and investments.
Future Investments and Developments
DP World’s plans extend beyond current investments, with proposals to invest over $1.3 billion (approximately AED 4.7 billion) to expand the southern terminal at Callao. Once implemented, this project aims to raise the terminal’s annual capacity to 4.3 million TEUs and improve operational efficiency, alongside constructing a 20.8-hectare storage and aggregation area off the dock.
DP World has indicated that the proposed expansions aim to enhance the port’s ability to keep pace with regional trade growth and bolster Peru’s competitive edge in the market.
DP World continues to play a vital role in supporting Peru’s economy, contributing significantly through its operations at Callao.