The Economic Potential of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port

Abstract

A crucial factor in Georgia’s sustainable economic development and the improvement of its population’s living standards is the development and operation of maritime transport and deep-sea ports. The construction of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port on the Black Sea coast represents one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, aiming to transform Georgia into the primary logistics and trade hub of the South Caucasus. This project will have a significant economic impact on the entire region and is vital for Georgia’s economic growth, as it strengthens the country’s position along key international trade routes - particularly within the Middle Corridor of the New Silk Road, which connects the nations of Europe and Asia.

With its potential to handle large container vessels and facilitate increased trade flows, the port is expected to attract investment, create jobs across various sectors, including port logistics, construction, transportation, warehousing, and cruise tourism, and, most importantly, enhance Georgia’s integration into the global economy.

Based on academic research, policy documents, and national economic development strategies, this paper examines the economic and geopolitical significance of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port project, identifies the main challenges of its construction process, and provides recommendations for strengthening Georgia’s competitiveness as a maritime nation.