APM Terminals Poti has presented its plans for the creation of a deep-water port to the Government of Georgia. According to the company, the plans require an investment of over $250 mn of private capital for phase 1 and a substantial amount for phase 2 in an extensive development of the port infrastructure and superstructure.
“This investment in the strategically important port of Poti is a proof of our commitment and belief in Georgia and the development of a transport corridor that stretches into Central Asia,” explains Keld Christensen, Managing Director of APM Terminals Poti.
“The expansion project – the cost of which is negligible to the average Georgian taxpayer – will lead to a significant economic advancement for the country and region. Combining the best logistical solution for our customers and leveraging the know-how and resources of a world-class company, it will create more than a thousand jobs and business opportunities in and around the port.”
The expansion plan for Poti Sea Port consists of two stages of construction and development. The first stage includes a breakwater of 1,700 m and a 400 m multipurpose quay with 13.5 m depth able to handle dry bulk cargo and an incremental 150,000 TEU. This berth will be able accommodate container vessels of up to 9,000 TEU.
The second stage will include a 300 m container quay equipped with 3 state-of-the-art STS cranes. According to APMT, it will double the annual container capacity at Poti Sea Port to over 1 mn TEU.
The timeline for construction is estimated at 24-30 month. This would require close cooperation with and support from the Georgian Government, to ensure all necessary permits are granted in a timely manner. According to this planning the first stage would be completed in Q2 2022.