The Thessaloniki Port Authority in Greece has embarked on its largest expansion project ever with the signing of a major construction contract, initiating one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades in its history.
Port of Thessaloniki (ThPA S.A.) and the joint venture “METKA S.A.-TEKAL S.A. (PIER 6) J/V” on Wednesday signed the construction works contract for the expansion of the port infrastructure of Pier 6 of the port, marking a major milestone in the port’s long-term development strategy.
The contract concerns Mandatory Enhancements No. 1 (Pier 6, Port Infrastructure Expansion) of the Concession Agreement between the Hellenic Republic and ThPA S.A.
The project includes the expansion of Pier 6, with an additional length of 513 meters, a width of 306.5 meters, and the significant deepening (dredging) of the navigation channel and the vessels’ maneuvering area, for the safe mooring of even the ULCV type vessels (ultra large container vessels).
The signing of the contract signals the start of the main construction phase, with an implementation period of 40 months and a total budget of 195.6 million euro.
Once completed, the expansion will increase the total capacity of the Container Terminal from 650,000 TEU to 1,500,000 TEU, enabling Thessaloniki to serve simultaneously a higher number of container vessels and accommodate ultra large container vessels of up to 24,000 TEU – unique capabilities for Northern Greece.
According to ThPA S.A., the financing of the project will be covered from the own existing capital of ThPA S.A. as well as from banking loans.
Dr Ioannis Tsaras, the chief executive officer of ThPA S.A., noted: “With the signing of the contract, the Port of Thessaloniki is entering a new era of development. The expansion of Pier 6, the largest upgrade project in the history of the port, creates the conditions for Thessaloniki to strengthen its role in the Mediterranean as a strategic trade hub for Southeast Europe.
“This is not just an important piece of infrastructure, but a project that increases the operational capacity of the port, empowers the regional logistics ecosystem, and generates varied and multiplier benefits at both the local and national level.”
