Companies from 18 countries are investing in ports located in Peruvian territory,
"There are 18 countries whose companies invest in Peruvian ports. What country in the region can say that? So, we want more countries to come and invest because the regulations and support are in place," Paz told Andina News Agency.
"Peru is a country that provides legal guarantees for investments. We already have more than S/5.5 billion (above US$1.33 billion) invested in ports, and it can increase even more," he added.
The
National Port Authority specified
the countries from which the companies investing in Peruvian ports originate: Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Ecuador, France, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Peru, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
The National Port System comprises 60 public and private ports, which currently operate on the coast (46 maritime terminals) and rivers (14 river terminals) of Peruvian territory.
Among the main ports in Peru are Chancay (Lima region), Callao (Callao), Salaverry (La Libertad), Paita (Piura), Eten (Lambayeque), Matarani (Arequipa), Ilo (Moquegua), and Paracas (Ica).
"At the national level, we have 60 (ports), most of which are 100% privately-owned ports for private use (43). There are 17 public-use ports, which can handle any type of cargo from any actor," he explained.
The chairman also highlighted that the National Port Development Plan (PNDP), recently approved by the Government, is a key tool for the growth and modernization of Peru's port system.
"The National Port Development Plan has been approved after 12 years; the last version dates back to 2012; what it includes is a clear vision regarding where Peru is headed, in terms of ports, to establish ourselves as a regional hub," Paz stated.
"“We already have elements regarding the Port of Callao and how it has been strengthened in the regional context. Now, what the National Port Development Plan does is establish the path to consolidate Peru as a regional hub; therefore, we need to strengthen social, environmental, technological, and infrastructural aspects," he added.