The volume of cargo transshipment through the Giurgiulesti port reached a new record in 2023, amounting to 2.17 million tons, an increase of 18.6% compared to 2022.
As noted in a statement by Danube Logistics, the general investor and operator of the port, in addition, the total number of containers handled last year reached a historical maximum of 8,460 units (8,646 TEU). The new record figure was achieved mainly due to increased exports of grain and seeds, which last year increased by 55%, reaching 889 thousand tons and accounting for 41% of total cargo volume. Imports of petroleum products increased slightly, by 4%, resulting in the volume of transshipment amounting to 599 thousand tons, which corresponds to 28% of the port’s volume. The increase in the overall transshipment volume in 2023 was also facilitated by the export of sunflower oil, which increased by 26% compared to the previous year, amounting to 248 thousand tons. In addition, imports of construction materials increased by 10% - to 195 thousand tons. Also, imports of fertilizers, both in big bags and in bulk (dry and liquid), continued their positive trend, increasing by 48% and reaching 119 thousand tons. Meanwhile, imports of coal and exports of scrap metal decreased. Danube Logistics CEO Mathias von Tucher noted that while the volumes of cargo handled in 2023 also included some cargo to/from Ukraine, in its future plans the company is focused on meeting the needs of Moldovan importers and exporters. “Over the past 2 years, we have increased our staff by 40% and plan to maintain it at this level. The significant increase in grain exports is mainly the result of recent investments in new grain storage facilities at the port. To increase the grain loading capacity at our cargo terminal, we purchased a high-performance loader. Herewith, we are completing preparations for the construction of a new universal berth with the aim of increasing transshipment capacity for dry cargo, general cargo and containers by 600 thousand tons per year. In parallel, we plan to increase operational efficiency through a higher level of automation of the railway liquid cargo terminal and digitization of terminal processes. Our goal is to improve the quality of service to Moldovan customers by increasing available capacity and efficiency,” emphasized Mathias von Tucher. Since 2005, Danube Logistics has transformed the port of Giurgiulesti into one of the most successful ports on the Danube, promoting the trading activities of Moldovan companies on international markets. Danube Logistics is wholly owned by the Dutch company Danube Logistics Holding BV. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is the sole ultimate owner of the Danube Logistics group of companies.// 23.01.2024 - InfoMarket.
