More than 1 million tonnes of goods were transported last year through the Giurgiulești Free International Port. Of these, 57% were exported, while the rest were imported. Some 72% of the imports were from the EU, mainly from Romania. A terminal for conveying unbottled wine will be made available at the airport in the near future to boost wine exports and to extend the geography of these exports, Prime Minister Ion Chicu learned during a working visit to the port, IPN reports.
Some 65% of the port’s shares are owned by the EBRD, while 35% by Danube Logistics Holding. The port employs over 470 persons. Approximately US$70 million was invested in the port’s infrastructure. Danube Logistics Holding director general Mathias von Tucher gave a presentation of the port at the current stage.
The port’s managers enumerated a number of problems, including aspects that can compromise the investment intentions and can generate conditions of disloyal competition. It was underlined the necessity of taking steps to maintain the navigability of the Prut. There was mentioned the problem of outdated and conflict approaches that hamper the operational activities and investment process.
Premier Chicu requested the representatives of the Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure to examine each subject and to present information and solutions for ensuring the sustainable development of the port in a legal manner, by meeting the environmental standards.
Also today, the Premier visited the Vulcănești Free Economic Zone. “This Zone has a greater potential. We are ready to offer the businesspeople all the Government’s support so that they make progress. The companies are oriented to export and this is important. There are particular problems, such as the shortage of labor force and the management of industrial residues. We came here to identify solutions together. I think this is the right approach,” stated Ion Chicu, being quoted in a press release of the Government’s press service.
The Premier also visited the district hospital in Vulcănești town and the local Theoretical Lyceum “Luceafărul”.
