Puntland’s Main Gateway Falls Silent: Bosaso Port Crisis Sparks Public Anger and Business Boycott

Bosaso (WDN)– Puntland’s most important commercial hub has remained at a standstill, with port operations and business activities suspended after a dispute over increased port charges forced traders to halt operations. The shutdown has also sparked growing public protests across the coastal city of Bosaso, raising concerns about the broader economic impact on Puntland and central Somalia.

According to local sources, commercial activity across Bosaso has slowed dramatically after the company managing Bosaso Port introduced what traders describe as a substantial increase in taxes and handling fees on imported goods destined for Somali businesses, particularly those operating in Puntland.

The dispute has now entered its 12th consecutive day, with reports indicating that no commercial cargo has been unloaded at the port since the standoff began. The prolonged shutdown has raised concerns about potential shortages of imported goods and the wider economic impact on Puntland’s business community.

As tensions mounted, hundreds of residents took to the streets of Bosaso to protest both the port management company and the Puntland administration, accusing authorities of failing to intervene and resolve a crisis that is increasingly affecting livelihoods and local commerce.