European Commission Proposes Major Upgrades for 300 Key Ports
An initiative launched May 23 will improve operations and onward transport connections at over 300 key seaports, the European Commission said. Currently, 74 percent of goods entering or leaving Europe go by sea, but one-fifth of that passes through just three ports: Rotterdam. Hamburg and Antwerp. That imbalance results in congestion and extra costs for shippers, transport operators and consumers, it said. The proposals could save Europe's economy up to 10 billion euros ($13 billion) by 2030 and help forge new short sea links, it said.
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Although there are 1200 seaports in Europe, the initiative focuses on the 319 key ports in order to build a “real European ports network capable of supporting Europe's internal market,” the EC said. With sea-borne trade predicted to grow 50 percent by 2030, Europe's ports have to adapt, said Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas.
The plan envisions more transparent and open procedures for designating port services providers, and rules to prevent possible price abuse by operators with exclusive rights, the EC said. It introduces a port users' advisory committee, with details left to local port communities. Under the “Connecting Europe Facility,” the EU will fund projects focusing on connections of ports with rail, inland waterways and roads.
The proposal extends the freedom of ports to levy infrastructure charges and reinforces that such charges and the use of public financing must be open and transparent, the EC said. Ports will be allowed to reduce charges for vessels with better environmental performance. The EC will also start a “social dialogue for ports” to allow employers and employees to discuss dockwork-related issues. The proposal must be approved by the European Parliament and Council.