Economy Minister: Second phase of new Poti Seaport development to boost economic growth and regional connectivity

“Today marks the beginning of the second phase of the development of the new Poti Port,” said Georgia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Mariam Kvrivishvili, at the ceremonial launch of the project.

According to the minister, the project is a direct and effective response to the growing demand for Georgia’s transport and logistics sector.

“This is a project that opens new prospects for the country’s economic development and the strengthening of regional connectivity. Over the past several years, the Middle Corridor has emerged as one of the fastest-growing international transport routes. Accordingly, the volume of cargo transported through Georgia has increased significantly.

It is noteworthy that during the first five months of this year, cargo volumes transported through the Middle Corridor increased by 21 percent, while the tonnage of vessels entering Georgia’s ports grew by 19 percent. Growth has been recorded across virtually all major directions, once again highlighting our country’s increasing role in regional and international logistics,” the minister stated.

According to Kvrivishvili, the additional USD 40 million investment is particularly important in this context, as it will significantly expand the capabilities of the new Poti Port.

“Once the second phase is completed, the port’s annual handling capacity will reach three million tons. Operational efficiency will improve, cargo processing will be accelerated, and this will have a positive impact on Georgia’s competitiveness,” she said.

During the first phase of the project, USD 93 million was invested and 360 jobs were created. At the current stage of development, an additional 50 people are expected to be employed.

The minister also expressed gratitude to the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) for continuing to support Georgia’s economic development, as well as to PACE Group for transforming a private initiative into a successful project of national importance.

The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Alan Purcell, DFC Managing Director Kenneth Angell, and PACE International President Ioseb Dolidze.

The event concluded with a symbolic capsule-laying ceremony marking the start of the project’s next phase.