Rijeka Gateway: Powering a new era of trade and connectivity

Almost three months on from the first vessel call at Rijeka Gateway, the impact is already taking shape. In this article, Peter Corfitsen, CEO of Rijeka Gateway, shares why the terminal’s opening is more than a single milestone – it marks the start of a shift for Croatia’s logistics sector and the wider Central and Southeastern European economy.

When Rijeka Gateway celebrated its operational launch at the end of October, the moment marked far more than the arrival of the first commercial vessel. It was a generational leap for Croatia’s logistics sector and a defining milestone for the regional economy, promising a profound and measurable transformation across Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, the Adriatic and the broader Central- & East European hinterland.

The moment marked far more than the arrival of the first commercial vessel. It was a generational leap for Croatia’s logistics sector and a defining milestone for the regional economy...

As CEO, having led this journey from a construction zone to a thriving terminal, the most striking outcome so far has been witnessing the collective energy and ambition of our region become a world-class, greenfield port facility. With €380 million invested  in partnership between APM Terminals and ENNA Group, Rijeka Gateway is Croatia’s largest private logistics infrastructure investment, delivering not only advanced hardware - electric cranes, 5G network and digital logistics systems - also a new platform for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Direct economic impact

Already, the terminal employs a team of more than 300 people, with each direct job generating several more in transport services, distribution, warehousing and port-related IT and innovation businesses. According to a recent study presented by the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, the terminal is projected to be a growth engine for the entire region. By 2040, port-linked activity could support up to 8,600 jobs and generate as much as €3.3 billion in total economic value, five times current levels.

By 2040, port-linked activity could support up to 8,600 jobs and generate as much as €3.3 billion in total economic value...

A catalyst for regional investment and logistics

Rijeka’s emergence as the fastest sea route into Central and Southeastern Europe is poised to accelerate waves of new investment . Logistics operators, multinational supply chains and digital infrastructure providers are now drawn to Rijeka, seeking to benefit from streamlined routes, reduced emissions and state-of-the-art systems that support smarter, safer, and more cost-efficient cargo handling.

The terminal’s deepwater quay and phased expansion are enabling the largest container vessels to call regularly, increasing throughput and raising the city’s profile as a logistics gateway. Our ambition, shared with the Port Authority and other leaders, is to link the port via expanded rail and motorway connections with Central & East Europe’s largest industrial and consumer markets. With the upcoming lowland railway between Rijeka and Zagreb, we expect even more closely integrated supply chains and lower environmental impact, which are both vital for future competitiveness.

Driving innovation, sustainability and social value

Innovative technology and green operations are changing what a modern port means. Rijeka Gateway is the first port in the Adriatic equipped with fully electric, remotely controlled cranes, and the terminal draws its energy from renewable sources. By dramatically reducing emissions, noise, and operational waste, the Gateway is setting new sustainability standards, making Rijeka a leader in green logistics rather than just a beneficiary of growth.

Rijeka Gateway is the first port in the Adriatic equipped with fully electric, remotely controlled cranes, and the terminal draws its energy from renewable sources.... setting new sustainability standards...

Partnerships with local universities and vocational schools provide young professionals with new opportunities, ensuring the next generation is equipped to meet the challenges and rewards of tomorrow’s logistics sector. The restoration of historic buildings and preservation measures reflect our respect for the city’s cultural heritage. Our investment in employee training will reach 90 000 hours by the end of the year, reflecting our commitment to human capital development.

Collaboration for a shared vision

Croatia’s government, the Port Authority, and international partners have all highlighted Rijeka Gateway as the most important and complex infrastructure project in Rijeka’s modern history. Minister Butković and the Port Authority forecast that, with continuing investment in both port and rail infrastructure, Rijeka will become a top competitive hub for global trade flows—and the heart of a multimodal corridor that connects Asia to the heart of Europe.

The road ahead

As we look beyond our first few months, Rijeka Gateway’s challenge is to fully realise its potential, a task that calls for accelerated rail connectivity, continual technological upgrades and close relationships with stakeholders, partners and the community. Phase two of the terminal, slated for completion before 2035, will further expand capacity, drive technological modernisation and anchor Rijeka’s role as a premier logistics hub.

Together, the foundation we’ve built in these first weeks, backed by teamwork, international resolve and local pride, promises not only economic prosperity but lasting social and environmental impact. The future for Rijeka Gateway - and by extension for Central and Southeastern Europe’s supply chains – looks more connected than ever.