Port of Santander, Spain
Credits: Port Authority of Santander
The UNCTAD TrainForTrade Port Management Programme (PMP) supports port communities in developing countries in delivering more efficient and competitive port management in the future. In order to increase trade flows and foster economic development, the programme creates port networks bringing together public, private and international entities. The aim is to share knowledge and expertise between port operators and strengthen talent management and human resources development in port communities.
The PMP’s main objectives
- Strengthen institutional capacity and management efficiency of ports and related agencies.
- Promote port community participation and public-private partnerships.
- Enhance the competitiveness of ports and the quality of their services.
- Improve the environmental sustainability and social responsibility of ports.
The PMP provides technical assistance in various areas, including port planning, management and operations, logistics and supply chain management, port security, safety and environmental protection, and legal and regulatory frameworks. It also organizes training courses, workshops, and seminars, as well as conducts research and analysis on port-related issues.
The Port Week
As part of the activities of the Spanish-speaking network of the UNCTAD TrainForTrade Port Management Programme (PMP) and in collaboration with the Port Authority of Santander, 20 representatives of port communities from Latin America and the Caribbean, including 9 women, from Argentina, Bolivia, Guatemala, Peru, the Dominican Republic and Uruguay, will take part in Port Week from 8 to 11 September 2026 in Santander, Spain.
Organized by Puertos del Estado, the Menéndez Pelayo International University and the Port Authority of Santander, this event brings together experts from the port sector to examine the main challenges facing ports today, while providing a space for the exchange of experiences and good practices among sector professionals. Port-city relations and the regeneration of port areas, sustainable and smart mobility, the new geostrategic role of ports in trade, defence and security, and new port management and leadership models will be among the main issues addressed over the four days.
Through its participation in Port Week, the TrainForTrade Port Management Programme contributes significantly to capacity-building and promotes dialogue and reflection on the new needs of ports today.
