The port in Świnoujście, which is part of the largest port complex in Poland, is set to be included in a long-term expansion program called “Construction and expansion of access infrastructure to the port in Świnoujście”. With the beginning of the second quarter of 2023, the government is expected to adopt the project and start its implementation. It is expected to last until 2029. The estimated investment costs are around 10.3 billion Polish zlotys, of which 7.5 billion will come from the state budget, and the rest will be funded by EU funds. The minister responsible for the project is Deputy Minister of Infrastructure, Marek Gróbarczyk.
65 kilometers long and 17 meters deep
One of the goals of the entire operation is to increase the competitiveness of the port in Świnoujście. According to the authorities, the project will contribute to the economic growth of Poland. Independence from Germany and the port of Hamburg will lead to greater independence and improvement in maritime trade. “The emerging container terminal in the near future may serve other investments,” as emphasized by Marek Gróbarczyk. The canal is planned to have a length of 65 kilometers and a depth of 17 meters. The authorities hope that approximately 6 years after the canal opens, it will become a serious competitor to the one in Hamburg.
Competitive transshipment hub for the Baltic Sea
Currently, the port in Świnoujście is unable to handle transoceanic vessels. It does not have the status of a main port, but serves as a feeder port, cooperating with larger ports. The ambitions are high – according to the Ministry’s announcements, the port in Świnoujście is to become a transshipment hub for the Baltic Sea. Ultimately, the port in Świnoujście is intended to be a transit point for water transport on the Baltic-Adriatic-Mediterranean route. Although Germany does not express it directly, they are not pleased with the emergence of a competing port and Poland’s attempts to become independent. There are also unjustified voices of dissatisfaction that, similar to the case of the Vistula Spit Canal, this investment will not be profitable. Time will tell.