Construction of new deep-sea port in Georgia accelerates

Jan De Nul has begun dredging operations to construct a deep-sea port in Anaklia, Georgia. This project is of great strategic importance to the nation, as it aims to become a crucial maritime gateway on the Middle Corridor trade route. The port, situated on Georgia's Black Sea coast, will significantly enhance the country's ability to handle large container vessels and increase capacity for dry and bulk cargo.

Two dredging vessels, Tristão da Cunha and Al-Idrisi, are currently deepening the access channel to a depth of 17.5 meters, allowing the port to accommodate both Panamax and Post-Panamax vessels. In addition to the dredging works, Jan De Nul will also build a 1,380-meter-long breakwater to protect the port from waves, ensuring a safe environment for vessels to enter, maneuver, and berth.

The joint venture with local company Prime Concrete will also see the construction of a turning basin, providing ample space for these large vessels to safely maneuver within the port.

Dredging works are expected to continue until the end of 2026, with the construction of the breakwater projected to be completed by the end of 2027. The first construction phase is scheduled to be finished by 2029, after which the port will have an annual container capacity of at least 600,000 TEUs. A second phase aims to boost this capacity to a minimum of one million TEUs by 2035.

Tamar Ioseliani, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development for Georgia, stated, "The Government of Georgia has a well-organized and consistent vision and plan for developing the country’s transport system to expand Georgia’s role in international transport and logistics networks. We will ensure that the Anaklia Deep Sea Port receives its first ship in 2029."

Jan De Nul also contributes to the development of the Middle Corridor by working on major port projects throughout the region, including the expansion of Kuryk Port in Kazakhstan and dredging works for Mersin Port in Türkiye.