The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on Tuesday, 20th October 2026, engaged representatives of China’s Zhejiang Xiehai Group Co. Ltd. on a potential investment in cargo haulage trucks to improve transportation and ease congestion at the Port of Freetown.
SLPHA Deputy Director General, Madam Judith Boi Kosseh, highlighted challenges posed by frequent truck breakdowns, noting that reliable transport vehicles would improve cargo evacuation and port efficiency.
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to China, H. E. Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim, who facilitated the engagement, disclosed that the group had already started procuring vehicles ahead of a potential agreement. Representatives of Xiehai Group expressed readiness to advance the proposed collaboration once an agreement is reached.
The engagement builds on the group’s existing maritime cooperation with Sierra Leone, including a direct shipping route launched between Taizhou Port, China, and Queen Elizabeth II Quay in December 2025. It also follows the launch of the Sierra Leone Ocean Shipping Company (SLOSCO) at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay on Monday.
Following the meeting, the delegation toured selected port facilities, including the Inland Container Depot at Hastings, as discussions on potential investment opportunities continue.
