Business met with the new Head of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority, Oleksandr Semyrha

28/ 03/ 2025

Listen to online Stop   On 26 March, member companies of the Logistics Committee and the Transport Working Group in Odesa of the European Business Association participated in a working meeting with Oleksandr Semyrha, the newly appointed head of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA). According to the USPA Head, 2024 has been a productive year for the port sector, largely due to the efforts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as the active role of business and government authorities. The total cargo turnover reached 97 million tonnes, with 80 million tonnes handled in Odesa and 17 million tonnes in the Danube region. However, compared to the previous year, cargo volumes in the Danube region have halved, primarily due to security challenges affecting port operations. Key priorities outlined by Oleksandr Semyrha Infrastructure Development Reconstructing and modernising port infrastructure remains a key objective. In 2024, only 31% of planned projects were implemented. A significant increase is expected in 2025, supported by international assistance and state funding. Major projects include: World Bank’s RELINC Project – Development of the Danube cluster (procurement of equipment, port modernisation, fleet renewal, pilot navigation systems). EU Programme – Restoration of damaged port facilities, dredging equipment procurement, and installation of security barriers. Port Security Enhancing port security remains a top priority, with plans to introduce additional protection systems and improve existing safety mechanisms. Digitalisation of Processes The introduction of electronic systems will optimise port operations: DocPort Project – Automation of truck entry processes (already implemented in the Danube ports and Chornomorsk; Odesa implementation scheduled for May 2025). Maritime Window – Digitalisation of vessel arrival and departure procedures (pilot project completion expected in summer 2025). ERP System for USPA – A unified digital platform to streamline internal processes. Engagement with International Partners Expanding international cooperation and attracting investments remain top priorities, with a particular focus on the Danube ports and their integration with European transport systems. Prospects for Port Reopening The reopening of blocked ports remains a pressing issue and depends on political agreements. Key tasks include: Ensuring safe navigation; Reducing insurance tariffs for vessels; Increasing cargo flows. Our goal is to create transparent and fair conditions for all market participants. We are addressing these challenges not in theory, but in practice, and we count on the support and feedback from the business community, added Oleksandr Semyrha.

On 26 March, member companies of the Logistics Committee and the Transport Working Group in Odesa of the European Business Association participated in a working meeting with Oleksandr Semyrha, the newly appointed head of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA).

According to the USPA Head, 2024 has been a productive year for the port sector, largely due to the efforts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as the active role of business and government authorities. The total cargo turnover reached 97 million tonnes, with 80 million tonnes handled in Odesa and 17 million tonnes in the Danube region. However, compared to the previous year, cargo volumes in the Danube region have halved, primarily due to security challenges affecting port operations.

Key priorities outlined by Oleksandr Semyrha

Infrastructure Development

Reconstructing and modernising port infrastructure remains a key objective. In 2024, only 31% of planned projects were implemented. A significant increase is expected in 2025, supported by international assistance and state funding.

Major projects include:

• World Bank’s RELINC Project – Development of the Danube cluster (procurement of equipment, port modernisation, fleet renewal, pilot navigation systems).

• EU Programme – Restoration of damaged port facilities, dredging equipment procurement, and installation of security barriers.

Port Security

Enhancing port security remains a top priority, with plans to introduce additional protection systems and improve existing safety mechanisms.

Digitalisation of Processes

The introduction of electronic systems will optimise port operations:

• “DocPort” Project – Automation of truck entry processes (already implemented in the Danube ports and Chornomorsk; Odesa implementation scheduled for May 2025).

• “Maritime Window” – Digitalisation of vessel arrival and departure procedures (pilot project completion expected in summer 2025).

• ERP System for USPA – A unified digital platform to streamline internal processes.

Engagement with International Partners

Expanding international cooperation and attracting investments remain top priorities, with a particular focus on the Danube ports and their integration with European transport systems.

Prospects for Port Reopening

The reopening of blocked ports remains a pressing issue and depends on political agreements. Key tasks include:

• Ensuring safe navigation;

• Reducing insurance tariffs for vessels;

• Increasing cargo flows.

“Our goal is to create transparent and fair conditions for all market participants. We are addressing these challenges not in theory, but in practice, and we count on the support and feedback from the business community,” added Oleksandr Semyrha.