Court Confirms Termination of Longoni Port Management Contract

On June 2, 2026, the Administrative Court of Appeal in Bordeaux upheld the early termination of the public service delegation contract between the Department of Mayotte and Mayotte Channel Gateway (MCG), the operator of Longoni Port. This decision follows a previous ruling by the Administrative Court of Mayotte, citing serious and persistent breaches by MCG that rendered the continuation of the contract contrary to the public interest. The termination is set to take effect on September 1, 2026.

Background and Legal Proceedings

MCG had been managing Longoni Port since 2013 under a 15-year contract. However, allegations of mismanagement and failure to meet contractual obligations led the Union Maritime de Mayotte to seek legal action. The courts found that MCG's actions, including the imposition of unauthorized tariffs and lack of transparency, justified the contract's early termination.

Implications for Port Operations

The ruling necessitates a transition plan to ensure uninterrupted port operations, crucial for Mayotte's economy and supply chain. Authorities are tasked with organizing the port's management post-MCG to maintain service continuity and uphold the public interest.

Future Management Considerations

With the termination effective from September 1, 2026, the Department of Mayotte must decide on a new management structure for Longoni Port. Options include appointing a new private operator or establishing a public entity to oversee port activities. The primary goal is to implement a management system that ensures efficiency, transparency, and alignment with the island's economic objectives.