ICS Danube Logistic, a Dutch company owned by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), has managed the Giurgiule?ti port since 2004. Of the port’s six terminals, five are owned by the EBRD, while one remains under state ownership.
In August 2024, Romania’s government approved a memorandum of understanding to initiate negotiations for the potential purchase. To support this process, Romania launched a tender for consultancy services valued at over €400,000. The consultancy will guide the evaluation and negotiation stages of the proposed acquisition.
The Giurgiule?ti port is a critical infrastructure asset for Moldova, facilitating the transport of goods via the Danube River to international markets. Its strategic importance has prompted efforts to enhance its capabilities. In September 2023, Moldova outlined plans to modernize the port and expressed interest in partnering with a foreign entity to support these upgrades.
The modernization project includes deepening the shipping channel from 7 to 12 meters through dredging, reinforcing the pier, constructing new grain silos, and developing access roads and a railway station for efficient loading and unloading of cargo. These improvements aim to increase the port’s capacity and operational efficiency, strengthening its role in regional trade.
A representative from Romania’s government stated: “The potential acquisition of ICS Danube Logistic aligns with our commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting vital infrastructure in the area.”
Moldova’s government noted: “Modernizing the Giurgiule?ti port is a priority to boost our trade capabilities, and we welcome collaboration to achieve this goal.”
The proposed acquisition and port upgrades reflect a shared interest in improving trade infrastructure and fostering economic growth in the region. Romania’s consideration of ICS Danube Logistic underscores the port’s significance as a key link in Moldova’s access to global markets.
