The ways in which automation, digitalization and infrastructure optimization are transforming operations in dry bulk port logistics were among the main topics discussed during the International Dry Bulk Shipping Seminar: Challenges, Solutions and Best Practices, organized by Future Events with the participation of MundoMaritimo. During the event, Sergio Zamorano, LATAM CEO of FAM BEUMER Group; Ismael Torres, LATAM Business Development Manager at Prodevelop; Alejandro Valenzuela, Manager of Ultraport TGN Automated Terminal; and Francisco Martínez, Deputy Operations Manager at TGN Ultraport, examined the technological advances reshaping the dry bulk sector, as well as the challenges terminals face in increasing efficiency, operational capacity and human capital development.

Innovation in the Dry Bulk Sector

The development of continuous conveying systems and digital tools is driving a new stage of modernization in dry bulk terminals, according to Sergio Zamorano, who highlighted the growing adoption of continuous transport systems based on conveyor belts, a solution that is progressively replacing the intensive use of trucks in mining and port operations.

As an example, he noted that China operates the world’s highest-capacity tubular conveyor system for iron ore, with a transfer rate of 5,500 tonnes per hour. “Today, plants and terminals are being connected through conveyor systems, replacing thousands of truck movements and significantly improving logistics efficiency,” he said.

Zamorano also emphasized the importance of involving customers, consultants and suppliers early in the development of new projects. “Early interaction among all stakeholders makes it possible to develop optimal solutions tailored to operational requirements,” he stated.

Complementing this perspective, Ismael Torres argued that technological transformation must extend beyond loading and unloading operations. “When we talk about port digitalization, we cannot overlook the maritime side, anchorage areas, vessel congestion, or land-side coordination with trucks and railways,” he explained.

The executive pointed out that many dry bulk terminals in South America still rely on traditional tools such as spreadsheets and email, leaving significant room for digital advancement. In this context, he highlighted the implementation of management systems, Port Community Systems (PCS), equipment monitoring solutions and digital twins to enhance decision-making. “Bottlenecks often occur either on the maritime or land side. These technologies allow operators to anticipate them, reduce congestion and improve the overall efficiency of the logistics chain.”

Modernization for Mining Exports

Representatives from Ultraport highlighted the commissioning of the New Copper Concentrate Loading Facility at Terminal Graneles del Norte (TGN), a project developed to meet growing demand from the mining industry and help ease congestion in operations within Mejillones Bay in northern Chile.

The terminal, considered unique worldwide due to its technological integration, operates using electricity generated entirely from renewable energy sources and has an annual handling capacity of 4 million tonnes. It also features a design loading capacity of 1,800 tonnes per hour, a stacking area for 3,700 containers and a fully automated loading process. The infrastructure can accommodate vessels of up to 229 meters in length overall (LOA).

Alejandro Valenzuela, Manager of Ultraport TGN, stressed that automation contributes not only to efficiency but also to higher safety standards. “We are proud of this project, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology, is environmentally friendly and adds value in terms of operational safety,” he said. Meanwhile, Matías Ormazábal, Manager of Mechanized Ports at Ultraport, noted that the project transformed a traditional operation into a platform capable of handling new cargo flows.

Regarding human capital, Francisco Martínez, Deputy Operations Manager at TGN Ultraport, explained that workforce preparation was a critical component of the project’s implementation. “We developed training programs with in-house instructors, established our own training center and created tools to support employees throughout this knowledge transformation process,” he stated.

Challenges for the Next Decade

The speakers agreed that the dry bulk industry faces significant challenges in terms of efficiency, digitalization and workforce development. According to Ismael Torres, “the challenge is to move toward more standardized and digitalized processes that allow operators to anticipate congestion and optimize both maritime and landside operations.”

For his part, Matías Ormazábal emphasized that automation must be accompanied by training and workforce reskilling strategies. “The adoption of new technologies requires strengthening workers’ competencies and creating development opportunities aligned with new operational requirements,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sergio Zamorano warned that the main challenge for ports will be responding to projected cargo volume growth in a context where opportunities for infrastructure expansion are increasingly limited. “Capacity will need to increase, but there is less and less space available for growth. The challenge will be how to handle 30% to 40% more cargo over the next five to seven years by making more efficient use of existing assets and equipment,” he concluded.