The state enterprise “Black Sea Maritime Trade Port” has announced the launch of its first online auctions on the Prozorro.Sales platform, concerning the provision of cargo handling services. The pilot project covers imported mineral fertilizers, excluding urea, which will be handled in bulk or in big bags.
This is reported by Finway
Advantages of Open Auctions for Port Services
The auctions will follow the English type, meaning they will be conducted as ascending price auctions, allowing for a maximum transparency in determining the market value of services. The auction is scheduled for March 25, 2026. The main subject of the auction will be the operation of the port crane, while access to the berths will be paid separately by the winners, depending on the nature of the cargo.
“The state enterprise ‘Black Sea Maritime Trade Port’ has announced its first online auction for the handling of mineral fertilizers in the Prozorro.Sales system. The auction is part of the launch of a pilot project for implementing open auctions for access to port facilities — berths, warehouses, and related services,” the statement reads.
According to information from the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development, the choice of direction is linked to the high demand for mineral fertilizers, which traditionally represent a key cargo for the Black Sea Port.
Market Prospects and Participant Interest
The introduction of the auction mechanism is based on successful experiences both in Ukraine and abroad. In particular, Ukrzaliznytsia has already implemented open auctions for the distribution of railcars, and in many other sectors, such auctions have become a primary tool for managing state property and licenses.
Preliminary consultations with potential contractors have shown significant interest in participating in the auctions, indicating the market’s readiness for transparent and competitive mechanisms. It is expected that the transparent format of the auctions will also be attractive to foreign cargo owners, who will have the opportunity to work directly with the state port under clear terms.
It is also reported that representatives of the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development are discussing updates to the concession agreement for the “Olvia” port with the company “QTerminals Olvia” in light of force majeure circumstances.