EBRD Launches Global Tender for New Investor to Drive Growth at Moldova’s Giurgiulesti International Free Port

EBRD Launches Global Tender for New Investor to Drive Growth at Moldova’s Giurgiulesti International Free Port

(IN BRIEF) The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has launched an international tender to identify a new investor for Giurgiulesti International Free Port, Moldova’s key maritime asset. In coordination with the Moldovan government, the EBRD aims to attract strategic or financial partners to advance the port’s development and ensure alignment with international standards. Since acquiring full ownership in 2021, the Bank has improved efficiency and profitability, and now seeks long-term investment to strengthen the port’s role as a regional trade hub. Handling over 70% of Moldova’s waterborne trade, Giurgiulesti is also positioned to support future Ukrainian reconstruction efforts. Raiffeisen Bank is advising the EBRD in this M&A process.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 14-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has officially launched an international tender to identify a new investor for Moldova’s Giurgiulesti International Free Port, the country’s key maritime gateway. The structured mergers and acquisitions (M&A) process seeks strategic or financial partners capable of supporting the port’s long-term growth and solidifying its role as a critical logistics hub for Moldova and the wider region.

The process is being carried out in close coordination with the Moldovan government to ensure the port’s future development aligns with both national priorities and global standards. Discussions are also underway regarding the commercial and legal framework needed to attract sustainable investment in line with best practices in the transport and logistics sector.

Since taking full ownership of Giurgiulesti International Free Port in 2021, the EBRD has made notable strides in enhancing the port’s operational performance, increasing throughput, and improving financial outcomes. The Bank has remained clear in its vision: to secure a strong and reputable investor that can build upon recent progress and elevate the port into a competitive regional trade hub.

Raiffeisen Bank has been appointed as the EBRD’s financial advisor for this M&A process.

Strategically situated on Moldova’s narrow stretch of the Danube River, Giurgiulesti borders both Romania and Ukraine and currently handles more than 70% of the country’s waterborne imports and exports. The port plays a central role in safeguarding Moldova’s supply chains and has grown in regional importance, particularly in light of Ukraine’s ongoing reconstruction needs.

The EBRD’s involvement with the port dates back to 1995 when it began supporting its construction and operations. Over the years, the project has faced financial and operational challenges, but through continued engagement, the Bank helped stabilise the asset. A major turning point came in 2013 when the EBRD extended a new loan and became the main economic beneficiary. In 2021, the Bank acquired full ownership of the Danube Logistics group, which includes the port’s operating company, Danube Logistics SRL.

With the launch of the tender, the EBRD is taking a decisive step toward securing the port’s next phase of investment and growth, further anchoring its importance in Moldova’s economic future and the broader Black Sea–Danube trade corridor.

Media Contact:

Email: media@ebrd.com

SOURCE: EBRD