APM Terminals Poti invests in new harbour crane to support record growth and strengthen capacity
APM Terminals Poti is strengthening its capacity and operational flexibility by acquiring a new multipurpose mobile harbour crane to support growing cargo volumes and the terminal's expanding role as a key trade gateway connecting the Caucasus and Central Asia with global markets.
Scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026, the crane will give the port a container handling capacity of more than 650,000 TEU, and enhance handling capacity for both containerised and non-containerised cargo by approximately 500,000 metric tonnes. In addition, it will drive operational efficiencies through streamlining cargo movement and reducing vessel turnaround time.
Located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, Poti plays a critical role in regional trade, handling approximately 80% of containerised ocean cargo serving Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, and playing an increasingly important role in connecting Central Asia with the rest of the world. As trade volumes across the region continue to grow, the terminal is investing to ensure it can meet future demands while maintaining reliable service for customers.
The announcement follows a period of sustained growth for the terminal. In 2025, APM Terminals Poti handled a record 636,466 TEU. Growth has continued in 2026, with 277,081 TEUs handled in the first five months of the year, compared with 255,944 TEUs during the same period in 2025 and 225,630 TEUs in 2024.
The new crane is an investment of USD 7.1 million and forms part of a broader programme to modernise terminal infrastructure and equipment. To date, APM Terminals has invested more than USD 180 million in the development and expansion of its Poti operations, with further equipment upgrades planned.
“Driven by growing customer demand and our commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient services, we continue to invest in the capacity and capabilities of the terminal,” said Christian Roeder, Managing Director of APM Terminals Poti. “This latest investment reflects our long-term confidence in the region's growth potential and our ambition to strengthen Poti's position as a vital gateway connecting regional economies with global trade.”
Through targeted investments in infrastructure, equipment, and operational capability, APM Terminals Poti continues to strengthen supply chain connectivity, support economic growth and create greater opportunities for customers across Georgia, the South Caucasus and Central Asia.