TRIESTE – After Maersk, a second global giant is looking at the port of Rijeka. French group CMA CGM has launched procedures for the possible acquisition of a significant stake – and potentially a majority stake – in Luka Rijeka. The operation, still at a preliminary stage, could mark a strategic turning point for the development of the port, with expectations of traffic growth and a strengthening of its international role.
The news emerged through a communication to the Zagreb Stock Exchange: Port Acquisitions, currently the largest shareholder with 34.4%, has requested authorisation for due diligence aimed at the possible sale of its shares to the French group. The company’s capital is currently divided between pension funds (33.5%), the Croatian State (25%) and small shareholders.
The entry of CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest container shipping operator, would open a new phase for the port, particularly for the Brajdica container terminal, in which Luka Rijeka holds 49%. Rijeka already hosts another giant in the sector, Maersk, through APM Terminals at the Rijeka Gateway terminal, consolidating the port’s position in the North Adriatic.
Operationally, the arrival of the French group could result in a significant increase in volumes, thanks to the possibility of channelling traffic between the Far East and the Adriatic. A strengthening of feeder services between regional ports is also expected, with direct effects on Rijeka’s centrality in maritime routes.
CMA CGM’s ambitions would go beyond container traffic alone. The group, which also controls CEVA Logistics, could develop new activities in the automotive and ro-ro segments, exploiting infrastructure such as the future Prague Pier terminal. There could also be positive spillover effects for rail logistics, port hinterland warehouses and air cargo.
The talks are supported by contacts launched as early as last year between the Saadé family, owner of the group, and the Croatian government. The impact on the current ownership structure of the Brajdica terminal, today under the control of the Philippines-based ICTSI, remains to be clarified.
According to the Port Authority, the interest of a second major global operator confirms the port’s strategic growth. The possible entry of CMA CGM would further strengthen Rijeka’s role as a European logistics hub, improving traffic, services and integration into international corridors.
