World Bank presents reform roadmap for Ukraine’s ports

The World Bank has released an analytical report outlining the current state of Ukraine’s port sector, the key challenges facing its development, and potential directions for future reforms. The findings were presented in cooperation with Ukraine’s Ministry for Communities and Territories Development.

The report examines the operation of Ukrainian seaports during the ongoing full-scale war, the impact of security restrictions on logistics, and major structural issues affecting the sector, including governance, financing, and port infrastructure development.

Among the proposed reforms, particular attention is given to improving the management of port lands. Experts recommend legally defining port boundaries on land and water, conducting a comprehensive inventory of land plots, and restoring centralized land management mechanisms within port areas. The report also calls for closer cooperation with local communities and municipalities regarding land administration.

The World Bank further recommends reforms to port governance, including the establishment of a supervisory board and a clear division of responsibilities related to maritime safety, infrastructure management, and concession oversight. In the financial sphere, the report advocates a shift from a fiscal model toward an investment-oriented approach that would allow port revenues to be reinvested in infrastructure development.

Another key recommendation is the creation of a national ports master plan that would identify priority ports based on their strategic importance, cargo flows, and investment potential. The plan should also ensure closer coordination between port development, rail logistics, and regional development strategies.

The report highlights the resilience of Ukraine’s port industry during the war, progress in implementing modern governance practices, and the effective use of concessions to attract private investment. World Bank experts emphasize that concession projects can play a crucial role in port modernization by combining state control over strategic assets with private capital, management expertise, and infrastructure investment.