The port sector of Ukraine is now the most promising in terms of using concession contracts, it is developing dynamically, and there is a considerable interest from the private sector.

According to an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent, this was reported by Senior Banker of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Mark Magaletsky during the presentation of a new bill on concession in Kyiv.

In parallel with work on the legal framework, the EBRD together with the Ministry of Infrastructure has begun work on preparing pilot projects, which are expected to be implemented according to a new legislative basis. Thus, three pilot projects were selected, including Olvia port, Kherson maritime merchant port, and a ferry in Chornomorsk port, the banker said.

Magaletsky noted that the small regional port Olvia is located to the south of Mykolaiv. It has all the necessary infrastructure. The port specializes in transshipment of bulk and general cargo, at the same time it has a large enough territory for development.

We've prepared a preliminary feasibility study of the project, analyzed nine possible scenarios for the development of the port, consulted with the leading companies, both Ukrainian and international, who are interested in participating in such projects. Three specific projects have been proposed, two of which are a new construction of specialized grain complexes, one is actually a concession of the existing stevedoring facilities, the EBRD senior banker said.