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A changing port: Why Albania should protect foreign investors

2024-11-19 11:46:08Fokus SHKRUAR NGA CHRISTOF SCHMITZ
Port of Durrës

German media capital-beat.tv has dedicated an article to the latest developments in the Port of Durrës regarding the controversial change of operator, legal clashes as well as the scandal of suspicious exports. 

Capital-beat TV writes that for the Port of Durrës, as a strategic location, the country must determine the rules of the game for foreign investors because otherwise Albania risks not only its reputation, but also its economic future.

Full article

Albania's most important port is once again in the spotlight, and recent developments at the Port of Durrës raise questions that extend beyond national borders. Even in German politics, developments are being followed with concern.

At the center of these events: a controversial switch of operator, legal clashes and a scandal over questionable exports. These events show that Albania urgently needs a clear strategy for the protection of foreign investors.

A controversial operator switch

In 2013, the concession for the port's eastern quay was awarded by the Albanian government, led by Prime Minister Sali Berisha, to the German company EMS Shipping and Trading GmbH, in an effort to increase efficiency through private management.

However, in 2024, EMS abandoned the project and sold the concession for 13 million euros to the Croatian company SCAPHA DOO, headed by Filip Rogosi?.

What was planned as a smooth transfer quickly turned into a disaster for public opinion. Shortly after the change of operator, reports emerged of the export of potentially harmful materials, which were sent through the port to Asia. The Albanian government blamed EMS, but the German company defended itself by saying it was not responsible for approving such cargoes.

Legal conflict and economic pressure

The problems surrounding EMS did not end there. As early as 2022, the company had opposed the Albanian government's plans to move port operations to Porto Romano, to make way for a luxury project, "Durrës Marina". EMS sued Albania in the International Court of Arbitration, demanding 40 million euros in damages. This case was eventually resolved when EMS sold the concession to SCAPHA. However, the basic questions remain: How safe are long-term investments in Albania, when government plans change unpredictably?

Albania's commitment to transparency

The situation in the Port of Durrës highlights a fundamental weakness: the lack of transparency and insufficient protection for investors. EMS and SCAPHA DOO are examples of how much Albania depends on foreign capital, but uncertainties may drive away other potential investors. In addition, questions are raised about the international networks of the new operators. Filip Rogosi? and his connections to international business networks in Europe and Latin America raise concerns about business practices and the responsibility of future actors.

A matter of credibility

The port of Durrës is a central economic point for Albania. But to secure it as a strategic location, the country must define the rules of the game for foreign investors. Without reforms and a commitment to transparency, Albania risks not only its reputation, but also its economic future.

The sale to SCAPHA DOO could be a turning point – if the right lessons are learned. The port represents Albania's connection with the world. It is now up to the government to protect this bond.


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