The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) announced on Apr. 20 that it is moving forward with the expansion of the storage area at the Muelle de Atraque al Servicio del Perú (MASP) in Arica, Chile. The project, coordinated by the National Ports Company (Enapu) and the Regional Government of Tacna, aims to strengthen logistics infrastructure and support increased cargo movement for southern Peru’s international trade.
This initiative is significant because it seeks to improve Peru’s logistical capacity and competitiveness in foreign trade. The expanded storage will facilitate smoother operations for exporters, producers, and entrepreneurs who rely on efficient transport links.
During a recent working meeting, authorities agreed on actions for granting use of a 5,000-square-meter plot for logistics operations. This step is expected to increase storage capacity and enhance operational coordination with rail systems under an execution agreement signed between Peru and Chile in November 1999. An inter-institutional agreement between Enapu and the Regional Government of Tacna is also planned to optimize cargo transit between Zofratacna (Tacna Free Trade Zone) and MASP.
“With this initiative we are taking a firm step toward strengthening southern Peru’s logistics capacity and opening more opportunities for our producers, exporters, and entrepreneurs. The expansion of MASP’s storage area in Arica will optimize cargo flow, reduce times, and make our foreign trade more competitive—directly benefiting thousands of families who depend on these activities,” said Aldo Prieto, Minister of Transport and Communications.
The ministry plays a key role in improving national connectivity through enhanced transport infrastructure according to its official website. It operates service centers such as MAC Lima Este and MAC Lima Sur to increase public access according to its official website, while functioning as part of Peru’s executive branch with regulatory authority over transport sectors according to its official website. Its mission includes delivering safe, sustainable services that promote integration according to its official website under ministerial guidance according to its official website throughout communities nationwide according to its official website. Since beginning operations in 1969 it has managed multimodal infrastructure projects via partnerships with other public entities according to its official website.
Prieto said that improving MASP aligns with broader strategies aimed at reinforcing port presence nationally while supporting bioceanic corridors connecting Bolivia and Brazil. “With this initiative,” he said, “the MTC seeks to consolidate southern Peru as a strategic hub for international commerce while reaffirming commitment toward strengthening port system competitiveness.”
