OMM Redaksiyası
Georgia plans to invest approximately $7 billion in transport infrastructure by 2032 to expand the Middle Corridor and strengthen the country’s role in global trade.
Georgia’s Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Tamar Ioseliani announced the plans at the International Maritime Forum in Batumi. She said the investments would focus on modernizing the country’s transport system and doubling its cargo-handling capacity.
More than 300 delegates from various countries, along with representatives of the International Maritime Organization, attended the two-day forum. Discussions focused on infrastructure, digital systems and the need for skilled personnel to expand the Middle Corridor’s capabilities.
The Middle Corridor, which links China and Europe while bypassing Russia, has attracted growing interest as an alternative trade route. However, its development continues to face challenges including limited infrastructure, inconsistencies in cargo handling and slow progress in digitalization.
Georgia has already begun upgrading its railway network. The deep-water port of Anaklia is expected to receive its first ships in 2029. The project is intended to increase available depth and cargo-handling capacity at Black Sea ports.
The forum also addressed the importance of information exchange among ports, shipping companies and customs authorities. Participants said digital data exchange could help reduce delays along international transport corridors.
A session moderated by Niko de Cauwer, secretary general of the International Association of Ports and Harbors, examined the “Maritime Single Window” and “Port Community Systems.” These systems enable customs authorities, ports and shipping companies to exchange information digitally in real time.
Forum participants stressed the importance of investing not only in physical infrastructure but also in modern digital systems. They considered these measures essential to improving the Middle Corridor’s competitiveness in terms of transit times and reliability.
The event also covered shortages of skilled personnel in the maritime sector and the modernization of education and certification systems. The development of Anaklia port and an increase in cargo flows along the Middle Corridor are expected to create greater demand for qualified specialists.
