NAMPO

  • KPNAM
  • Latitude: 38.7163
  • Longitude: 125.4
  • North China
  • Port in North Korea

Location: Nampo North Korea

Phone number: +850

Nampo (also spelled Nanpo) is a significant port city in North Korea located on the west coast, along the Taedong River, about 15 kilometers from its mouth and approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. The port serves as a crucial gateway for maritime trade and logistics for the country. Here's a detailed description and specification of Nampo Port:

General Information:

  • Location: West coast of North Korea, on the Taedong River
  • Coordinates: Approximately 38°43′N 125°23′E
  • Proximity: ~50 kilometers southwest of Pyongyang

Port Infrastructure:

  1. Berths and Terminals:

    • General Cargo Berths: Multiple berths dedicated to handling general cargo, including bulk goods, containers, and breakbulk.
    • Specialized Terminals: Facilities for handling specific types of cargo such as coal, minerals, and cement.
    • Oil and Gas Terminals: Docking facilities for tankers transporting oil and other petroleum products.
  2. Capacity:

    • The port has the capacity to handle several million tons of cargo annually. However, specific capacity figures may fluctuate based on infrastructure development and geopolitical factors.
  3. Draught and Depth:

    • The port can accommodate vessels with various draught levels, specifics may vary depending on the berth. Typical draught capacity allows for mid-sized cargo ships.
    • Depth maintenance is crucial to support larger vessels, and some channels may undergo periodic dredging.

Facilities:

  • Warehouses: Multiple storage facilities for different types of cargo, both covered and open-air.
  • Cranes and Handling Equipment: Modern cranes and other handling equipment to manage loading and unloading efficiently.
  • Rail and Road Connectivity: Good connectivity via rail and road networks to the interior regions, including direct links with Pyongyang.

Services:

  • Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage services for vessels entering and leaving the port.
  • Tug Assistance: Available for maneuvering larger vessels.
  • Bunkering: Provision of fuel and other supplies may be available, although services can be limited.
  • Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance facilities available at the port.

Security and Regulations:

  • Customs and Inspection: Standard customs checks and inspections applicable, with strict control typical of North Korean ports.
  • Regulations: Compliance with North Korean maritime and port regulations, which may involve stringent checks.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

  • Trade: Nampo functions as a significant trade conduit, especially for imports into and exports from North Korea.
  • Strategic Importance: Given its location and proximity to Pyongyang, Nampo serves strategic and logistical roles for the country.

Current Challenges:

  • International Sanctions: Economic and trade sanctions impact the port's operations, affecting the volume and diversity of trade.
  • Infrastructure Development: Periodic modernization and maintenance are required to handle contemporary shipping and trade demands effectively.

Overall, the Nampo port is vital for North Korea's commerce and logistics, providing a crucial link between the country and international maritime routes, albeit under strict regulatory environments and occasional international scrutiny.

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