German company launches operations in Durres port

TIRANA, July 15 – Germany’s EMS Shipping & Trading GmbH has officially launched operations in the East Terminal of the Port of Durres, the country’s biggest, under a 35-year concession contract with the Albanian government. The terminal will be run by EMS Albanian Port Operator, full daughter of the German logistics company EMS Shipping & Trading GmbH.
“An important day for us”, said Manfred Muller, Managing Director of EMS APO. “There was a lot to do in this short period of time between signing the contract and the starting date. Over the next months we will together with Durres Port Authority continuously work to improve the facilities of the East Terminal.”
Jens -Uwe Strober, Managing Director of EMS APO at the site in Durres, said: “We are starting a new era for both the Port of Durres and EMS-Fehn-Group. With our investment into the East Terminal we show our confidence in the port of Durres. It is already one of the most important ports in the Adriatic and its importance will grow further with the economic development 011 the Balkans. Together with our sister company German Albanian Logistics Agency here in Durres we are able to provide a full logistical service.”
One of the major factors of success is the deepening of the shipping channel to a draft of 11m. That will allow the berthing of vessels with up to 55.00 dwat at the EMS APO Terminal.
Mr Muller said that he is confident that the Albanian Authorities will soon start the necessary preliminary works to tender the dredging: “Albania is rich in metals and metallic ores that are in high demand. If the port gets the adequate means I am sure that exports will rise substantially”, Mr Miiller said. “High ranking members of politics and the administration made it very clear that they are willing to grip this chance that will generate enormous benefits for Albania.”