Written by: Marinos Giannopoulos – Enterprise Greece
Greece is actively working to solidify its role as a significant logistics player in international trade by leveraging its strategic geographical location and extensive transportation infrastructure, which includes ports, railways, and airports. These facilities are strategically situated to provide seamless access to the Middle East, the Balkans, Africa, and the European Union.
The European Union has seen a notable increase in freight transport over recent decades, a trend that is expected to persist. Greece aims to reduce the time and cost of transporting goods by 30-40%, enhancing its contribution to the integration and functionality of the European single market. The development of fully interconnected and sustainable transport networks is considered vital for fostering European integration.
A key example of Greece’s commitment to improving its logistics capabilities is the construction of the Thriassio Logistics Center near Athens. This project represents an investment of approximately €220 million, financed through both private and European funds.
The strategic positioning of Greece is exemplified by the Port of Piraeus, which has emerged as the largest multipurpose port in the Mediterranean and the fourth largest in Europe. The port is recognized as one of the fastest-growing container ports globally, with an annual capacity reaching a record high of 7.2 million TEUs, ranking 26th worldwide. The economic impact of the port on the local economy is significant, contributing over €1.4 billion. Furthermore, the growth in cruise activities at Piraeus has played a crucial role in revitalizing the Greek tourism sector, providing substantial economic benefits to the region.
Greece is also investing in other regional ports, such as Thessaloniki, Alexandroupolis, and Patras, to enhance their roles as gateways to Europe. Container handling at the Port of Thessaloniki, for instance, increased by 11.3%, with volumes reaching 255.2 thousand TEUs in the first half of 2023, compared to 229.4 thousand TEUs during the same period in 2022. The introduction of the new Cruise Station, “Megas Alexandros,” is anticipated to further expand the Port of Thessaloniki’s presence in the cruise sector and enhance the tourism offerings in the surrounding area.
To support this growth, Greece has established a new development model aimed at promoting domestic entrepreneurship and attracting foreign investment. Enterprise Greece, operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in collaboration with a broad network of Economic and Commercial Affairs Offices in Greek embassies abroad, is implementing a strategic business plan. This initiative aims to maintain a consistent and effective presence in the global market, with the overarching goal of promoting Greece as a premier gateway to Europe.
Contact Information:
Marinos Giannopoulo
CEO – Enterprise Greece
Email: info@eg.gov.gr
Phone: +30 210 335 5700
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