Izmir Port Plans $1.5 Billion Upgrade in Two Phases

Türkiye’s Izmir Port plans a $1.5 billion modernization in two phases, with investment aimed at expanding capacity and upgrading its facilities. The project is overseen by the Türkiye Wealth Fund, which retains responsibility for the port and the investment.

Dredging is planned to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and take about two years, according to TVF executive board member Erhan Yelkenci. The work is intended to deepen the approach channel to 17 meters and allow 400-meter container ships to reach the port.

Alport’s business development director, Onurhan Kadıoğlu, said the initial goal after dredging is to raise annual container handling capacity from 1 million to 1.6 million TEU. Once both phases are complete, capacity is expected to reach 3 million TEU, with other cargo capacity projected at 10 million tonnes.

The first phase is expected to take four years and will include rebuilding cargo and cruise berths. The cruise dock is due to close in early 2027 for safety reasons, with reopening targeted for 2029; cargo operations are set to continue during the investment period. The second phase is planned over 10 years, depending on cargo volumes.

The project also includes stronger rail links, with the port aiming to raise rail’s share of outbound cargo to 30%. Alport’s port coordinator Mustafa Levent Adalı said a new automation system had increased hourly ship movements from 13 to 63.