The ever changing economical conditions and technological advances in the world has also affected the maritime trade and necessitated some structural changes. The developments like the increase in speed of vessels and diversification of functions have led to an easier access to the markets on the other side of the world, sea transport has shifted from containers to Ro-Ro vessels and combined transport, that is the integration of surface, sea and air transport that allows door-to-door deliveries, has become more and more important.
With a coastline of 8333 km, Turkey has more than 300 ports that include wharves, yacht marinas, docks, piers and fishermen shelters depending on the coastal formations and functions. Çeşme Port is one of the ports that has no inland railway connection and had been operated by Turkish Maritime Organization Inc. between 1992 and 2003. Within the framework of law on privatization of ports in Turkey, in June 6th, 2003, the operating rights of the Çeşme Port has been awarded to the highest bidder, the company that Ulusoy Joint Enterprises would establish in line with the tender specifications for 30 years.
After privatization, the port has been entrusted to ÇEŞME ULUSOY PORT MANAGEMENT INC. and now offers a Domestic and International Maritime Lines Terminal, Agency services and port management in line with machinery, equipment, trailers and lodging facilities depending on the availability.
The goals of Çeşme port in this context are:
- To reduce bureaucratic paperwork,
- To increase the efficiency and effectiveness of port services,
- To maximize the utilization of port facilities and resources,
- To promote national and regional competition,
- To ensure financial independency,
- To operate ports with modern management techniques and practices,
- To establish a flexible schedule appropriate for current economical conditions,
- To contribute to local and national economy,
- To meet the port’s superstructure and infrastructure investment requirements,
- Enable ports to keep up with the latest technological advancements,
- To enable new and attractive investment opportunities in the port industry,
- To strengthen employment opportunities,
- To operate ports in line with trade principles within a competitive environment,
- To ensure suitable working conditions.
