These funds will be used to fully finance the acquisition, whereby the Romanian state intends to acquire 100% of the shares of ICS Danube Logistics SRL, the company that manages the port infrastructure of the Giurgiulesti International Free Port (GIFP).
The deal indirectly aims to acquire the ISPD by purchasing the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s (EBRD) stake in the port operator.
According to the authorities, all necessary approvals at the state and corporate levels have already been obtained, allowing the acquisition process to proceed efficiently.
“This decision is of great importance for Romania and for the whole Black Sea region. Giurgiulesti is Moldova’s only sea-river port and an important junction at the intersection of the Danube and the Black Sea.
The Port of Constanta will take over the management of Giurgiulesti International Free Port after the completion of the process initiated by the EBRD to find a strategic investor.
The integration of the Port of Giurgiulesti into a common concept with the Port of Constanta will strengthen the Danube-Black Sea logistics corridor and contribute to the development of a stronger regional platform for trade, transit and investment,” emphasized Romanian Minister of Transport Ciprian Sherban.
Regional impact and strategic role of Giurgiulesti Port
Romanian authorities see the move as strengthening the country’s position in the regional transportation infrastructure. Operational integration between Constanta and Giurgiulesti may contribute to the development of trade flows, especially along the Danube riverbed, and will create conditions for increasing transit volumes.
At the same time, the project is seen as an opportunity to improve the business environment in Romania and Moldova and to better interface with rehabilitation projects in Ukraine.
The Giurgiulesti International Port plays a dominant role in Moldova’s economy, handling more than 70% of the country’s shipping trade. Strategically located at the mouth of the Danube River, close to the borders with Romania and Ukraine, it can accommodate both river and sea vessels.
Infrastructure includes terminals for oil products, grain and various cargoes, complemented by logistics facilities and a business park, making it an important regional center.
