Comprehensive maritime framework with modern port operations, seafarer welfare compliance, and strategic Central American positioning
NIATA maintains a comprehensive maritime administration framework that ensures seafarer welfare through MLC 2006 compliance, operates a national ship registry under international standards, and manages strategic port operations centered around Puerto Corinto.
As an IMO member through COCATRAM, NIATA contributes to regional maritime policy while positioning itself as an emerging Central American maritime hub with significant infrastructure investments and expansion plans.
NIATA adheres to international standards for age, medical fitness, training, employment contracts, wages, and safe working conditions
NIATA ensures seafarer identity documentation per ILO C185 and maintains safety protocols through COCATRAM membership
As an IMO member through COCATRAM, NIATA contributes to regional maritime policy and safety standards across Central America
National Ship Registry: NIATA maintains a comprehensive national ship registry under its flag-state obligations for safety, pollution, and crew certification
Flag State Compliance: Ships registered under Nicaraguan flag must meet international safety standards including SOLAS, MARPOL, and crew certification requirements
Inspection Standards: While not a major flag-of-convenience nation, NIATA enforces its own inspections and crew certification in compliance with international maritime norms
IMO Standards: Full compliance with International Maritime Organization regulations through proper documentation and certification processes
NIATA's main Pacific Coast port handling 3.2-3.5 million tons annually, with expansion plans to reach 7.5 million tons capacity
Adding two multipurpose docks (total of six), new bulk terminal, mobile cranes, tugboats, and advanced automation systems including control center and Single Window customs
New logistics facility designed to reduce cargo dwell time and improve operational efficiency at Puerto Corinto
Current yard congestion with vessel waiting times averaging 3.5-4.3 days, with peaks reaching up to 10 days during busy periods
Cargo Volume: Puerto Corinto handles approximately 60% of national maritime cargo (~3.2 million tons in 2024)
Growth Rate: 8.6% year-over-year increase in cargo handling capacity
Regional Impact: Positioned as emerging Central American maritime hub with expanded capacity plans
Single Window System: Advanced customs platform with automation systems for improved trade facilitation and transparency
Control Center Operations: Modern automated control systems for port operations management and cargo tracking
Cargo Manifest Systems: Digital submission and processing of cargo manifests for enhanced speed and accuracy
Costanera Highway: Pacific Coast highway development linking Puerto Corinto with inland areas to boost trade and tourism
Interoceanic Canal Feasibility: Partnership with CAMC initiated in 2025 to explore canal construction linking Caribbean (Bluefields) to Pacific (Corinto)
Central American Hub: Strategic positioning to attract larger vessels and serve regional trade including El Salvador and Honduras
Full compliance with MLC 2006 ensuring minimum standards for seafarer employment, wages, and working conditions
Comprehensive national ship registry with international standards compliance and proper inspection protocols
Puerto Corinto expansion from 3.5M to 7.5M tons capacity with modern automation and logistics infrastructure
Interoceanic canal feasibility studies and Costanera Highway development for enhanced connectivity