’Dry port’ for grain exports to be created in Zakarpattia Oblast
Source：Kyiv Independent
From：Taiwan Trade Center, Kyiv
Update Time：2023/12/27
The western Zakarpattia Oblast in Ukraine is set to witness the development of a significant logistical hub and dry port, known as the Horonda Platform. This development, announced by the regional administration on November 16, is a strategic response to the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the region.
The Horonda Platform, which will be partially funded by Italian investors, is expected to create over 200 jobs, marking a significant boost to the local economy. Viktor Mykyta, the governor of Zakarpattia Oblast, emphasized the importance of this project, especially under the current war conditions.
Historically, the majority of Ukraine's grain exports were shipped from Black Sea ports. However, the dynamics changed dramatically after Russia's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain initiative in July 2023. This initiative had been crucial in facilitating the safe transport of grain from Ukrainian ports. The withdrawal led to a significant slowdown in grain transit, highlighting the need for alternative export routes.
In response, Ukraine established a humanitarian corridor in August to maintain some level of grain traffic. Despite this effort, the volume of grain exports remains a fraction of what it was before the war. Consequently, overland routes for grain export have gained unprecedented importance.
The Horonda Platform is designed to be a comprehensive solution to these challenges. It will feature storage facilities for grain and oil, multi-gauge railway tracks, and a range of other terminal services. The project's website describes it as "the largest European-Ukrainian intermodal logistics center and dry port in Transcarpatia." Its strategic location, less than 30 kilometers from the borders with Hungary and Slovakia, positions it as a pivotal point for regional trade and logistics.
Governor Mykyta views the Horonda Platform as not only a crucial development for regional economic growth but also as a means to strengthen transport and logistics connections with neighboring countries. The construction of the first stage, the intermodal port, is slated to begin in 2024. The project aims for full completion by 2030, setting the stage for a transformed economic and logistical landscape in the region.
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/authorities-dry-port-for-grain-exports-to-be-created-in-zakarpattia-oblast/