Mayotte's Assembly Votes to Create Public Entity for Longoni Port Management
On June 17, 2026, the Assembly of Mayotte voted to establish a public industrial and commercial establishment (EPIC) to manage the Longoni port starting September 1, 2026. This decision follows the judicial termination of the contract with the current operator, Mayotte Channel Gateway (MCG), due to serious and persistent breaches of obligations.
Background of the Decision
The Longoni port is Mayotte's primary deep-water port, handling approximately 95% of the island's imported goods. In June 2025, the Administrative Court of Mayotte ordered the early termination of MCG's contract, originally set to expire in October 2028, citing issues such as unauthorized tariff applications and lack of transparency. This ruling was upheld by the Administrative Court of Appeal of Bordeaux on June 2, 2026.
Establishment of the EPIC
In response to the impending contract termination, the Assembly of Mayotte convened to determine the future management structure for the port. The vote resulted in 14 in favor, 2 against, and 3 abstentions out of 19 members present. The newly formed EPIC is tasked with ensuring the continuity of port operations and will assume control on September 1, 2026.
Ben Issa Ousséni, President of the Department-Region, emphasized the necessity of this transitional structure, stating that the department lacks the resources and technical capacity to directly manage the port. The EPIC will temporarily oversee operations until a new public service delegation is established or the port transitions to a Grand Port Maritime status, as outlined in the Mayotte Refoundation Law of 2025.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The decision to create the EPIC has sparked debates regarding its financial implications and duration. Initial cost estimates ranged from 4 to 8 million euros, significantly higher than the previously projected 1 million euros. Additionally, the exact duration of the EPIC's management remains uncertain, potentially extending up to three years.
Stakeholders, including labor unions and local collectives, have expressed varying opinions. While some view the EPIC as a necessary step to ensure operational continuity, others are concerned about the potential for prolonged temporary management and associated costs.
As the September 1 deadline approaches, the successful implementation of the EPIC will be crucial in maintaining the flow of essential goods to Mayotte and stabilizing the island's economic infrastructure.
