The press reveals the shortlist of port operators which includes the industry’s number one, three, five, six and nine ranking top players – an indication of the potential the Port holds.
Although a few years ago the port was recording losses, the government expects the new operator to be able to increase profits to up to €100 million, owing to investments in infrastructure and superstructure upgrades, such as modern equipment, better cranes, and berthing of larger vessels.
The port will be leased to a port operator. Licensing is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2016. The Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) will remain a public organisation and retain a supervisory role.
The tender is in three parts: the licensing for the container terminal, licensing for the provision of maritime services and the licensing for a multi-purpose passenger terminal.
The licence for the container terminal and multi-use terminal is expected to range from 25 to 30 years and the licence for maritime services from 10 to 20 years.
International bidders:
- DP World (Dubai)
- COSCO (China Ocean Shipping Company)
- ICTSI (International Container Terminal Services, Inc.)
- Portek
- Al Blagha Group
- Eurogate
- Globalports
- Buss Group with Cypriot participation EMS and FRS
- Grup CIS
- Dock Siriali
The original date for bids was January 19, 2016, but a 48-hour extension was given following a request from the bidders.
Source: InCyprus
