Worker fatally injured at Chancay megaport project

Cosco Shipping Ports Chancay SA confirmed the death of a worker involved in the construction of the Chancay port, Peru, due to an accident which occurred on Saturday, 11 May 2024, at 7:34 local time.

The worker was employed by one of the contracting companies responsible for sanding and painting work in the area of the entrance complex.

According to the local media, the 36-year-old man suffered a fatal impact from heavy machinery, reportedly due to a crane operator error. Immediate first aid was administered, and the worker was transferred to Chancay Hospital, where his death was confirmed.

The company initiated an investigation, coordinating with authorities.

This incident marks the first fatality since the project’s commencement.

At the centre of dispute

In 2019, Hong Kong-based Cosco Shipping Ports and Peruvian mining company Volcan forged a landmark deal to spearhead the development of the Chancay Port Terminal, committing a staggering US$3.5 billion towards its construction.

However, Cosco is currently at the centre of a dispute regarding the terms of its operations, as WorldCargo News previously reported.

The Chancay port project has reached a completion rate of at least 70%, according to Cosco Shipping. The company aims to inaugurate the port in November, coinciding with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ summit, which will be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The megaport aspires to establish itself as a key hub in the South American Pacific region. However, its development has raised concerns among the United States and Europe, who are wary of China’s increasing influence in Latin America.