LIEPAJA

• LVLPX
• Latitude: 56.5337
• Longitude: 20.9852
• Baltic Sea
• Port in Latvia

Location: Latvia

Liepāja is a prominent port city located on the western coast of Latvia, along the Baltic Sea. The Port of Liepāja is one of the largest and most significant ports in Latvia, serving as a crucial hub for trade, logistics, and transport. Below is a detailed description and specification of the Port of Liepāja:

General Overview

• Location: Liepāja, Latvia
• Coordinates: Approximately 56°30′N latitude and 20°59′E longitude
• Type: Deep-water port
• Establishment: The port has historical significance, first established in the 17th century and further developed in the modern era.
• Governance: Managed by the Liepāja Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which provides favorable conditions for business development, including tax incentives.

Port Infrastructure

• Harbor: The port is divided into three primary parts: the inner port, the eastern port, and the Tosmare Channel. It features various terminals to handle different types of cargo.
• Terminals:
  • General Cargo Terminal: Capable of handling general and breakbulk cargo.
  • Container Terminal: Equipped with facilities for containerized cargo.
  • Bulk Cargo Terminal: Specializes in bulk goods such as grain, coal, and minerals.
  • Ro-Ro Terminal: Used for roll-on/roll-off shipping operations, suitable for vehicles and machinery.
  • Oil and Gas Terminal: Handles liquid bulk such as petroleum products.

Specifications and Capacity

• Total Port Area: Approximately 2,008 hectares (including both land and water area).
• Water Depth: Varies from 6.0 meters to 12.5 meters depending on the quay.
• Berthing Facilities: Around 21 berths capable of accommodating a diverse range of vessels.
• Annual Cargo Throughput: Over 7 million tons (varies annually based on economic activity).
• Container Capacity: Equipped to handle over 150,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually.

Services and Operations

• Pilotage: Mandatory for larger vessels and available 24/7.
• Tug Services: Tugboats are available for maneuvering and docking assistance.
• Warehousing: Ample storage facilities including warehouses, open storage areas, and specialized storage (e.g., cold storage for perishables).
• Logistics and Supply Chain: Integrated services including freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and distribution.

Connectivity

• Road: Well-connected to the national highway system, facilitating land transport across the Baltics.
• Railway: Direct rail links to major cities and industrial hubs, enhancing cargo movement efficiency.
• Air: Liepāja International Airport located nearby, useful for urgent cargo and business travel.
• Sea: Regular shipping routes connecting to other significant Baltic and international ports.

Economic and Strategic Importance

The Port of Liepāja plays a vital role in Latvia’s economy, contributing to its maritime, industrial, and trade sectors. It is also strategically significant due to its positioning along the Baltic Sea routes, offering access to both Western Europe and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries.

Development and Investments

Ongoing investments in port infrastructure, technology, and sustainability aim to enhance operational efficiency and environmental compliance. The SEZ framework actively supports innovation, modernization, and expansion projects.

Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

• Environmental Monitoring: Regular assessments to minimize impact on the Baltic Sea.
• Green Ports Initiative: Implementing practices to reduce carbon footprint and pollution.
• Waste Management: Facilities for handling and recycling ship-generated waste.

Additional Information

• Contacts: Port administration and SEZ authorities offer support for business inquiries and operational coordination.
• Website: Port of Liepāja Official Website

The Port of Liepāja continues to evolve, endeavoring to meet the needs of global maritime commerce while fostering sustainable development and economic growth in Latvia.