MERSIN

• TRMER
• Latitude: 36.7974
• Longitude: 34.6512
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Turkey

Location: Turkey

Mersin International Port (MIP): Mersin, Turkey

General Overview: Mersin International Port is one of the largest and most strategically significant ports in Turkey, located on the northeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It serves as a critical gateway for trade to and from Turkey as well as other regions in the Black Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, and the Middle East.

Key Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: 36°48′N 34°38′E
   • Situated in the city of Mersin, in southern Turkey.

2. Ownership/Management:

   • Owned by the Republic of Turkey.
   • Operated under a long-term concession by Mersin International Port Management Inc. (a joint venture between the Turkish Infrastructure Fund and PSA International).

3. Port Type:

   • Multipurpose port with facilities for container handling, bulk cargo, Ro-Ro, general cargo, and passenger services.

4. Container Terminal:

   • Equipped with modern cranes (STS - Ship-to-Shore, RTG - Rubber-Tyred Gantries).
   • Annual container capacity: Over 2 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units).
   • Deep draft berths accommodating the latest generation of container vessels.

5. Bulk and General Cargo:

   • Facilities for handling dry bulk such as grain, minerals, and chemicals.
   • Terminals for liquid bulk cargo including petroleum products and chemicals.

6. Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off):

   • Dedicated terminals for car carriers and other Ro-Ro cargo.
   • Services include imports, exports, and transshipment of vehicles.

7. Passenger Services:

   • Cruise terminal for international and domestic passengers.
   • Facilities meet international standards for safety and security.

8. Infrastructure:

   • Total quay length: Approximately 3,330 meters.
   • Maximum vessel draft: 14.5 meters, accommodating large transoceanic vessels.
   • 21 berths in total.
   • Extensive warehousing and open storage areas.
   • Modern logistics and transportation facilities including rail and road connectivity.

9. Additional Services and Facilities:

   • Equipped with the latest technology for cargo handling, tracking, and customs formalities.
   • Cold storage and reefer points for perishable goods.
   • Advanced security systems aligned with ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code.
   • Marine services including pilotage, towage, and mooring.
   • Availability of bunkering, freshwater supply, and ship repair services.

10. Accessibility:

    • Well-connected to the national and international road network.
    • Rail links extend to the national railway system providing access to Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
    • Proximity to Mersin International Airport and Adana Airport facilitating cargo and passenger movements.

Strategic Importance: Mersin International Port holds a pivotal role due to its strategic position near the Suez Canal route, centralizing sea transport between Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. Its extensive facilities and capacities make it essential for trade flow into and out of Turkey, bolstered by robust hinterland connections.

Development Projects: Ongoing and planned infrastructure projects aim to enhance capacity and efficiency, including terminal expansions, new technology integration, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Summary: Mersin International Port is a critical hub for maritime trade tailored to meet the growing demands of global shipping. It underscores Turkey’s pivotal maritime strategy, supporting commerce through advanced facilities and strategic location.