Benin's Dry Port of Parakou Becomes Operational, Initiating Cotton Exports

After a decade of anticipation, the Dry Port of Parakou in northern Benin has officially commenced operations. On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, the first containers of cotton were dispatched from the logistics facility, signifying its transition to the exploitation phase. The inaugural export operation was managed by Atral, a company specializing in transport and logistics. This development marks a significant milestone for the region, aiming to streamline cotton export processes and enhance Benin's agricultural trade infrastructure. The operationalization of the dry port is expected to reduce transit times and costs associated with transporting agricultural goods from the interior to coastal ports. It represents a strategic investment in improving Benin's logistical capabilities and boosting its export potential, particularly for key commodities like cotton. The project's completion addresses long-standing infrastructure needs and is poised to have a positive economic impact on local producers and the national economy.