Exports from Ukraine are significantly delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine War, while the load of the ports of the Black Sea countries increased.
The focus is made on the Trans-Caspian route (the Middle Corridor), which is the shortest way for carrying cargo from Asia to Europe. As a result of the rearrangement of transit routes, the importance of the countries of the South Caucasus came to the fore.
"Taking into account the new geopolitical situation, a large amount of cargo has moved to Georgia, and it is very important to transport these cargoes. Our ports have the opportunity to grow their capacity by about 10-15%," says Giorgi Kacharava, Executive Director at EU-Georgia Business Council.
According to him, there are many challenges, both in the infrastructural and regulatory part, therefore it is important for the governments of the Black Sea countries and the private sector to actively communicate with each other.
“It is necessary to coordinate with neighboring and partner countries since the Black Sea is one of the most important parts of the middle corridor through which Georgia can connect with the EU. In this regard, it is important to promote and develop all interesting projects.
In order for Georgia and the neighboring countries to be competitive, this cargo should be handled in the middle corridor immediately, with simple procedures, and no additional barriers should be created in terms of carrying this cargo. Georgian customs are handling it very well, but more coordination with neighboring countries is desirable", Giorgi Kacharava said.
