AD Ports Group has completed the acquisition process of the Tbilisi Dry Port, becoming the majority owner with a 60% stake. The state-of-the-art logistics hub in Georgia is rail-linked and scheduled to be operational this October. It further strengthens the Group’s role in connecting Asia and Europe via the Middle Trade Corridor, efficiently leveraging a network of sea and dry ports across Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and Turkey.
Abdulaziz Zayed AlShamsi, the regional CEO of AD Ports Group, expressed delight at the completion of the Tbilisi Dry Port acquisition. He highlighted the Group’s commitment to strengthening global supply chains and the growing influence of the Middle Corridor on global trade. The acquisition enhances connectivity between Western Asia and Eastern Europe, positioning AD Ports Group at the forefront of global trade. This investment is part of AD Ports Group’s strategic international investments to drive economic growth, job creation, and mutual benefit.
The new hub is strategically located between the Caspian Sea and Black Sea, at the heart of the Middle Corridor, integrating multiple facilities such as a container freight station, warehouses, and a car storage park. It serves as a crucial point for entry, exit, and regional transit, accommodating manufacturers, shippers, and consignees moving containers, vehicles, and goods for distribution and storage. Direct railway links to Turkey and Georgian ports of Poti and Batumi connect European Black Sea ports in Bulgaria and Romania.
The project will be completed in three phases, with the initial phase expected to reach a handling capacity of 96,500 TEUs, 10,000 sqm of warehouse, and a car storage yard. Upon completion of phase three, the project will have a handling capacity of 286,000 TEU, 100,000 sqm of warehouse, and an expanded car storage yard. Additional land plots have been secured for further development as needed.
The Middle Corridor is considered the shortest trade route between Asia and Europe, covering 7,000 km and requiring a journey of 10 to 15 days. In comparison, the existing Northern Corridor covers about 10,000 km overland, requiring 15 to 20 days, while the Southern Ocean Route spans 20,000 km, requiring a sea voyage of 45-60 days. The Middle Corridor is expected to see significant growth in container volumes, with the potential to reach 1.9 million TEUs by 2040.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the Tbilisi Dry Port by AD Ports Group strengthens their position in connecting Asia and Europe through the Middle Trade Corridor. The strategic location of the new hub, integrated facilities, and planned expansion phases underscore the Group’s commitment to enhancing global trade and supply chain connectivity. The Middle Corridor’s potential for growth in container volumes solidifies its importance as a key trade route between Asia and Europe. The completion of this acquisition marks another significant international investment by AD Ports Group in advancing economic growth, job creation, and mutual benefit.
