USPA announced port development priorities for 2025

Business met with the new head of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority, Oleksandr Semurha.

On March 26, business representatives took part in a working meeting with the head of the State Enterprise “USPA” Oleksandr Semirga, the European Business Association reported.

According to the head of the USPA, 2024 became productive for the port industry, largely due to the efforts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as the active position of business and state authorities.

The total volume of transshipment reached 97 million tons, of which 80 million tons fell on Odessa, and 17 million tons on the Danube region. However, compared to the previous year, the volume of transshipment on the Danube decreased by half. The main challenges that affected the operation of ports were security threats.

Among the key priorities in the work, Oleksandr Semyrha singled out infrastructure development, digitalization of processes and port security issues.

Reconstruction and modernization of port infrastructure is one of the key tasks. In 2024, only 31% of the planned projects were implemented. In 2025, a significant increase in this indicator is planned due to international support and state financing.

Main programs:

• World Bank RELINC project – development of the Danube cluster (purchase of equipment, modernization of ports, renewal of the fleet, pilot kits);

• EU program – restoration of damaged port facilities, purchase of dredging equipment, installation of safety barriers;

• port security.

The main task is to increase the level of port protection. It is planned to introduce additional protection systems and improve existing security mechanisms.

The implementation of electronic systems will also contribute to the optimization of port operations:

• DocPort project – automation of the process of road transport arrival; (implemented in the Danube ports and Chornomorsk, the next stage is Odesa in May 2025);

“Sea Window” – digitalization of registration of arrival and departure of vessels (completion of the pilot project – summer 2025);

• ERP system for the USPA – a unified digital platform for optimizing internal processes;

• attraction of international partners.

Expanding international cooperation and attracting investments are priority areas. Particular attention will be paid to the development of Danube ports and integration with European transport systems.

The issue of unblocking ports remains open. It depends on political agreements. The main tasks:

• guaranteeing shipping safety;

• reducing insurance tariffs for vessels;

• increasing cargo flow.

“We see our task as creating predictable and fair conditions for all market participants. We are working on all the challenges not in theory, but in a practical dimension, and we are counting on support and feedback from the business side,” added Oleksandr Semirga.

We will remind you that in January this year, the Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine Oleksiy Kuleba introduced the new head of the USPA, Oleksandr Semyrha. Among the main tasks for the new head are to ensure the stability and efficiency of the ports, develop the infrastructure, and implement modern approaches to management.