German investors are excluded, what is going wrong in the Port of Durrës? – Writing of the German media

The government of Albania is in the spotlight again – and this time it's not about Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's controversial plans to set up a refugee camp in the country. No, it is the recent developments around the port of Durrës that have disturbed both investors and observers. The question that is asked now is: How safe are foreign investments in Albania?

Port of Durrës - From promise to chaos

The Port of Durrës, Albania's gateway to the world, was partially privatized in 2013 under the government of Prime Minister Sali Berisha. The German company EMS Shipping and Trading GmbH received the concession for the eastern quay with the aim of increasing the efficiency of operations. But what started as a promising project ended in chaos.

In 2024, EMS withdrew from the project and sold the concession for only 13 million euros to the Croatian company SCAPHA DOO, headed by Filip Rogosi?. However, instead of the transfer going smoothly, a real disaster broke out. Reports of potentially harmful materials being exported from the port to Asia created scandals – an image nightmare for all involved.

The Albanian government quickly pointed the finger of blame at EMS. But the German company denied any responsibility, stating that it had never been authorized to approve such exports.

Government vs. Investors – Luxury over logistics

Tensions between EMS and the Albanian government had started well before 2024. As early as 2022, the German company opposed plans to move port operations to Porto Romano. The reason? The space of the port of Durrës had to be freed up for a prestigious project: "Marina Durrës", a luxurious complex that seemed more important than the functional infrastructure of the port.

EMS turned to the International Court of Arbitration and demanded 40 million euros in damages. The case ended in a settlement, when EMS sold the concession to SCAPHA. But the fundamental problems remained unsolved.

Uncertainty drives away investors

The chaos at the port of Durrës is a classic example of what many critics blame on the Albanian government: lack of transparency, unpredictable decisions and weak protection for investors.

EMS and SCAPHA DOO are just two examples that show how much Albania depends on foreign capital – and how easily relations with investors can be damaged. In addition, new concerns have been raised for new operators. Filip Rogosi?, the head of SCAPHA, has links to trade networks in Europe and Latin America, which have raised concerns among international observers. The questions that are asked are: How honest are the businesses that are being conducted in Durrës? And how much control does the Albanian government really have?

Brussels and Berlin follow closely

For Albania, the game is very important. If the country continues to be dependent on foreign investments - which it undoubtedly is - Prime Minister Edi Rama must show that Albania is not a risk for investors.

One thing is certain: Berlin and Brussels will not ignore the chaos in the port of Durrës. For those who want to invest in Albania, strong nerves are needed - and maybe a good lawyer.

Source: Focus.de