Georgia’s ports are operating near peak capacity but are handling increased cargo flows effectively, Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili said at the Georgia International Maritime Forum in Batumi. She said the government is working with the private sector to expand port capacity.
The Anaklia Deep Sea Port is a key project, with USD 700 million in state investment and USD 1.1 billion from the private sector. The port is expected to begin operations in 2029, with initial annual capacity of at least 600,000 TEUs and around 10 million tons of dry cargo.
Kvrivishvili said Anaklia is being developed under a landlord-port model to balance state and private interests. She also stressed that the Middle Corridor’s competitiveness depends not only on infrastructure but on simplified procedures, coordinated schedules and compatible digital systems.
The minister highlighted Georgia’s maritime workforce, which has grown to more than 21,000 certified seafarers from around 8,000 in 2012. She said over GEL 50 million has been invested in maritime education since 2012, helping Georgian seafarers gain recognition from 75 major maritime flags, including the EU.
