New delay announced for Dedeağaç–Midilli–Sakız–Piraeus commercial shipping line tender
The long-anticipated commercial ferry and freight route connecting Northern Greece with the Aegean islands and Piraeus has been delayed once again, marking the third revision of the tender timeline by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
The new submission date for the public international tender for the line Dedeağaç – Midilli – Sakız – Piraeus has now been set for June 24, 2026.
A Strategic Trade Route Facing Repeated Setbacks
Originally announced in October 2024, the project was designed to support businesses in the region of Meriç by offering subsidized maritime transport of goods. The initiative is expected to reduce logistics costs and improve the competitiveness of local exports to the Athens market.
Under the scheme, eligible companies must be registered in the Meriç regional unit to benefit from free or subsidized freight transport for a three-year period.
Government Investment and Policy Shifts
In September 2025, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy approved funding for the project through a sectoral development program, with a budget of approximately €12.5 million. The plan was later presented as part of broader infrastructure and connectivity commitments by the Greek government.
However, subsequent amendments to technical requirements for participating vessels significantly increased capacity standards, reportedly doubling minimum cargo specifications. These changes were introduced following requests from regional authorities, aiming to ensure higher transport efficiency.
Legal Challenges and Further Delays
According to the latest decision, the postponement is linked to legal actions filed by two shipping companies before the Council of State (Council of State Greece), seeking suspension and annulment of the tender process.
As a result, the launch timeline of the service—initially expected to begin in early 2026—has been pushed back further, with an estimated loss of several months from the original schedule.
A Project Still Awaiting Implementation
First announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in 2024 as part of efforts to strengthen regional infrastructure and connectivity, the shipping line remains in the planning and procurement phase nearly two years later.
Officials had previously projected that the service would operate for three years, potentially becoming permanent if proven effective in reducing transport costs and improving supply chain efficiency.
For now, however, repeated delays have raised concerns among local businesses in Meriç awaiting lower logistics costs and improved access to national markets.
