Deal with Kiev - More goods wagons: Duisburg Harbor cooperates with Ukraine
To facilitate more grain deliveries and other commodities from Ukraine to the West, Ukrainian railways and Duisport in Duisburg have entered into a strategic partnership. This will help Ukraine stronger connect with European markets, explains Duisport CEO Markus Bangen. "As one of the key logistics hubs in the heart of Europe, we want to leverage the strengths of our extensive network to establish quick and stable supply chains between Ukraine and Western and Central Europe." The new freight train connection, which is part of the cooperation, is expected to start in the coming weeks.
Duisburg as a Hub
Goods coming to Germany from Ukraine via Poland should be transported further from Duisburg in other trains, trucks, or ships. "From Duisburg, Ukrainian goods can reach various destinations in Europe, making Duisport the ideal partner for us," says Vyacheslav Yerymin, a member of the Ukrainian railway board.
Since the start of the Russian offensive war, Ukraine has shifted its trade focus more towards the West, increasing the number of freight trains to the EU. Now, another connection is added.
- The new freight train connection, set to commence in the coming weeks, will run directly from Ukraine to Duisburg, further strengthening the strategic partnership between Ukrainian railways and Duisport in North Rhine-Westphalia.
- Handel, a local business in Duisburg, is excited about the partnership, as it provides an opportunity to explore potential partnerships with Ukrainian companies for keg delivery services.
- Vyacheslav Klykh, the Ukrainian Minister of Infrastructure, emphasized during his visit to Kiev that this partnership is essential for Ukraine, as it helps in reaching new markets in Europe, such as Germany, Italy, and France, through Duisburg's extensive railway network.
- In light of the ongoing political tension in Eastern Europe, Ukraine is aiming to diversify its trade partners and reduce dependence on any one country, making partnerships with cities like Duisburg in Europe, such as Duisburg in North Rhine-Westphalia, crucial for Ukraine's economic growth.
- This partnership not only benefits Duisburg by increasing the volume of trade and supporting the local economy but also supports Europe as a whole by promoting trade between Eastern and Western Europe, facilitating a more connected and unified Europe.
