Israel opens Chinese-operated port in Haifa to boost regional trade links

The 1.7 billion dollar private port enables larger classes of cargo ships carrying 18,000 containers to dock in Israel after nearly 99% of goods move in and out of Israel over sea; port expected to reduce costs and cut above-average wait times for vessels to unload
Reuters|
Israel has opened a new shipping port along its Mediterranean coast that will bring much needed competition to a sector plagued by delays and boost the country's standing as a regional trade hub.
  • Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter

  • The 5.5 billion shekel ($1.7 billion) Bay Port at Haifa, which will be operated by Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG), will enable larger classes of cargo ships, carrying 18,000 containers or more, to dock in Israel.
    2 View gallery
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    (Photo: Raanan Cohen)
    The country is selling its state-owned ports and building new private docks in an effort bring down costs and cut above-average wait times for vessels to unload. About 99% of all goods move in and out of Israel over sea and an upgrade is needed to maintain economic growth.
    Warming ties with neighboring Arab countries are also creating new trade opportunities for Israel and Haifa is well placed to become a regional hub.
    "I'm sure we can leverage this opportunity not just for local prosperity, but for realizing opportunities and making a real contribution to our neighbors in the Middle East," Transport Minister Merav Michaeli said in a statement after the port was inaugurated in a low-key ceremony on Wednesday.
    2 View gallery
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    New Haifa Bay Port opens for business on Wednesday
    (Photo: Raanan Cohen)
    Another new port on the Mediterranean coast is due to open in Ashdod by the end of the year, to be operated Swiss-based Terminal Investment Limited.
    Comments
    The commenter agrees to the privacy policy of Ynet News and agrees not to submit comments that violate the terms of use, including incitement, libel and expressions that exceed the accepted norms of freedom of speech.
    ""