Australia-based Strike Resources Limited has announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Peruvian shipping company Naviera Petral S.A. covering the proposed San Nicolas port project on Peru’s southern coast.
The non-binding agreement establishes a framework for the future provision of port services related to the handling, storage and export of iron ore from Strike’s Apurimac iron ore project, located in the Apurímac District. The parties intend to negotiate a definitive commercial agreement following the completion of technical studies and the receipt of relevant regulatory and community approvals.
Port specifications and development timeline
Under the MoU, Naviera Petral confirmed that it controls approximately 294 hectares of privately owned coastal land at San Nicolas, together with approved aquatic areas allocated by the Peruvian Navy. The proposed development would include bulk material reception and storage facilities, stockpiling and weighing systems, conveyor-based ship loaders, and berth infrastructure.
Initial loading capacity is estimated at around 20,000 mt per day. Natural water depths of approximately 20 meters would allow the port to accommodate bulk carriers ranging from 60,000 dwt to 200,000 dwt. Strike is envisaged as a foundation user of the facility.
Subject to final engineering design and approvals, Naviera Petral expects construction and commissioning to take place within around three years of signing a definitive agreement.
Strategic fit with Apurimac iron ore project
The proposed port is strategically aligned with Strike’s Apurimac iron ore project, which hosts a JORC-compliant mineral resource of 269 million mt grading 57.3 percent Fe.
In addition, the San Nicolas Port Project is intended to connect with the planned Andahuaylas-San Juan de Marcona railway corridor being advanced by the Peruvian government. This integrated logistics corridor is expected to lower transportation costs, improve export efficiency, and support broader economic development in southern Peru.
