IQUIQUE

• Latitude: -20.2018
•
• Longitude: -70.1502
•
• West South America
•
• Port in Chile

Address: Chile

Iquique is an important port city located in northern Chile, renowned for its strategic position along the Pacific coast and its role as a hub for maritime trade in the region. Here is a detailed description and specifications of the Port of Iquique:

General Information:

• Location: Iquique, Tarapacá Region, Chile
• Coordinates: Approximately 20.2167° S latitude and 70.1500° W longitude
• Type of Port: Seaport
• Operational Authority: Empresa Portuaria Iquique (EPI)

Key Features and Infrastructure:

1. Harbor:

   • Type: Natural harbor with modifications to enhance operations
   • Protection: Protected by breakwaters, providing safe anchorage and docking

2. Berths and Terminals:

   • Number of Berths: Multiple berths accommodating different types of vessels
   • Type of Vessels: Capable of handling container ships, bulk carriers, general cargo vessels, and passenger ships
   • Container Terminal: Equipped with modern facilities for container handling, including cranes and storage yards

3. Cargo Handling:

   • Equipment: Modern cargo handling equipment including gantry cranes, forklifts, and conveyor systems
   • Types of Cargo: Wide range including containers, bulk minerals (e.g., copper), general cargo, and vehicles

4. Storage Facilities:

   • Warehouses: Onsite warehousing for general and specialized cargo
   • Open Storage: Large open spaces for container storage and bulk materials
   • Cold Storage: Facilities available for perishable goods

5. Depth and Docks:

   • Draft: Accommodates drafts of up to 13 meters, which allows for large vessel docking
   • Dock Length: Several docks with varying lengths, typically ranging between 150 to 500 meters

6. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Well-connected to the national and regional highway network, facilitating efficient cargo movement
   • Rail Access: Limited rail connections, with ongoing improvements to enhance connectivity
   • Airport: Proximity to Diego Aracena International Airport for air cargo and passenger services

Services Offered:

• Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage services for incoming and outgoing vessels
• Towing: Tugboat services available for assisting docking and undocking procedures
• Bunkering: Fuel bunkering services for vessels
• Ship Repair: Basic repair and maintenance services available; nearest major shipyards in other regions

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Trade: Plays a crucial role in Chile's maritime trade, especially for the mining industry in northern Chile
• Exports: Predominant exports include copper, fishmeal, and other minerals
• Imports: Includes machinery, vehicles, consumer goods, and industrial inputs

Additional Information:

• Customs: Well-established customs facilities ensuring smooth and efficient processing of goods
• Security: Complies with international security standards, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code

Development Plans:

• Continuous improvements and expansions are planned to enhance capacity and efficiency. This includes modernization of existing infrastructure and potential expansion of the port area.

Conclusion:

The Port of Iquique is a vital maritime gateway for northern Chile, equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure to support a range of cargo types and vessel sizes. Its strategic location and continuous development efforts make it a key player in regional and international trade.