Özgür Ferhat says Dedeağaç Port could cut transport costs for businesses in Western Thrace
A response from the Dedeağaç Port Authority to a parliamentary question by Rhodope MP Özgür Ferhat has highlighted potential opportunities to strengthen logistics infrastructure in Western Thrace, including the development of a combined transport network linking businesses in the Gümülcine Industrial Area to the port.
In its response dated August 7, 2026, the port authority identified strengthening the port’s competitiveness, expanding freight transport and developing reliable and cost-efficient logistics networks as strategic objectives.
Ferhat had raised concerns over high transportation costs faced by export-oriented businesses operating in the Gümülcine Industrial Area and called for the development of a modern logistics and transshipment hub for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
Logistics facilities considered for Dedeağaç Port
According to the port authority’s response, areas within the port’s land zone could be used for logistics facilities. An additional area of approximately 200 decares could also be considered for logistics development.
The response also refers to the possibility of creating a business park or combined transport hub in the area between Dedeağaç Port and Dimokritos Airport.
The port’s existing and planned transport connections are expected to play a key role in expanding its regional logistics function. The port’s western section is already connected to the railway network, while plans include strengthening road access and connections to the Egnatia Motorway.
Road, rail and air links targeted for improvement
Infrastructure projects around Dedeağaç are also expected to improve the movement of freight.
An investment of approximately €22 million includes improvements to depths in the port basin and access channel, as well as a road connection between the new commercial quay and the Eastern Ring Road.
A separate project, estimated at approximately €39 million, is intended to strengthen Dedeağaç’s road connections with Dimokritos Airport and the Egnatia Motorway.
Rail infrastructure is another key component of the plans. The modernization of the Dedeağaç–Ormenio railway corridor is intended to increase freight capacity and strengthen the port’s links toward Bulgaria and Türkiye.
The port authority also said it is examining the possibility of establishing a Rail Cargo Terminal at Dedeağaç Airport and connecting industrial facilities in northern Meriç to the port by rail.
Ferhat calls for stronger connection with Rhodope
Ferhat said the infrastructure investments create opportunities for the wider region but argued that the next step should be ensuring that Rhodope and the Gümülcine Industrial Area are effectively connected to the emerging logistics network.
He emphasized that transportation costs directly affect the competitiveness of export-oriented companies in the industrial area and called for concrete planning for a modern logistics centre and combined transport system that could make use of Dedeağaç Port.
“The main issue from this point forward is the effective connection of Rhodope and the Gümülcine Industrial Area to this network,” Ferhat said, adding that reducing transportation costs should produce tangible benefits for businesses rather than remain solely a development proposal.
The MP said he would continue monitoring infrastructure projects in the region and work on measures aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of businesses in Thrace.
