A new grain terminal was launched in the Bulgarian port of Varna

A new grain terminal has recently been commissioned in the port of Varna, with the first batch of wheat already processed on the new specialized grain handling system. An investment worth 25 million euros was realized at the Varna West port terminal.

As a result of an important investment partnership between the two companies Port of Varna EAD and Grain Terminal Varna West AD, the system is now operational and represents a set of technological innovations and infrastructure solutions that will increase the efficiency and competitiveness of companies, customers and traders from across the region.

On 06.10.2023, at the port terminal Varna West, Berth 8, a specialized unit successfully completed the processing of the 180-meter HTK FORTUNE motor ship loaded with 35,000 tons of Bulgarian wheat bound for Algeria. The grain is exported by Cofco International Bulgaria. The processing system currently in place allows for a throughput of 450 tons per hour, or about 10,000 tons per day per work point, and this is only the first step in expanding grain handling at the port.

The first stage of investment includes modernization of the loading process using a specialized grain loading machine “Shiploader”, technological belt and air conveyors in combination with a newly built infrastructure for receiving, automatic sampling and storage of grain. All this provides optimal conditions for loading ships and processing grain with high productivity and accuracy, and the entire system is based on environmentally friendly technologies.

The delivery and commissioning of the new sophisticated technological equipment is expected to be completed within 12 months, which will double the loading rate of specialized facilities, with the vessel loading rate reaching more than 20,000 tons per day. The terminal’s overall capabilities will allow it to handle several grain carriers in parallel, ensuring total exports through the berths of more than 35,000 tons per day. The built capacity of the grain storage facility is currently 100 thousand tons. The completion of the investment process will also ensure full utilization of the warehouse and port infrastructure, which will allow the company to handle more than 2 million tons of grain per year through the Varna-Zakhid terminal alone.

These investments are in line with forecasts and provide opportunities for further growth and expansion of the grain production and trading business. The commissioning of a powerful processing system and infrastructure improvements is an important strategic step that strengthens the companies’ positions in the grain sector and confirms the commitment of Priestane Varna and Grain Terminal Varna West to modernization and business innovation. This business venture will strengthen the position of both companies in the grain handling market and contribute to the stability and growth of both companies.

Tags: Bulgaria, grain terminal, Varna