Georgia’s Ports See Record Ship Arrivals in 2024

In a remarkable surge, Georgia’s ports welcomed a total of 16,831 ships in 2024, marking a significant increase in maritime activity compared to the previous year. General cargo carriers dominated the arrivals, accounting for 38.5% of the total. However, the state also experienced a notable decline in container and dry bulk ship arrivals. Additionally, the ports served nearly 8,000 passengers, reflecting a steady growth in sea travel.

Shipping Trends and Cargo Statistics

The ports and terminals of Georgia showcased a diverse array of vessels in 2024. Among the ships that docked, 38.5% were general cargo carriers, while liquid bulk carriers made up 30.1%. Container ships constituted 22.5% of arrivals, and the remaining 8.9% included dry bulk carriers, tugs, and specialized vessels. Notably, there was a marked increase in specialized carriers, which saw a rise of 34% compared to 2023. General cargo carriers also increased by 15.9%, while arrivals of liquid bulk carriers grew by 6.7%. In contrast, container ship arrivals decreased by 14.1%, and dry bulk carriers saw a reduction of 9.2%.

The flags under which these ships sailed reveal Georgia’s international maritime connections. Turkish-flagged vessels led the way, making up 18.4% of arrivals. Following closely were ships from Panama at 16.1%, and Liberia with 8.7%. Ships registered under the Russian Federation accounted for 5.2%, while the remaining 42% represented various other countries. This diverse fleet underscores Georgia’s role as a significant hub in global shipping routes.

Passenger Traffic and Cargo Volume Growth

Alongside the increase in ship arrivals, Georgia’s seaports also experienced a rise in passenger traffic. In 2024, the ports served approximately 7,900 passengers, a 2.4% increase from the previous year. Importantly, the number of arriving passengers slightly exceeded those departing, with arrivals making up 51% of the total traffic.

In terms of cargo volume, Georgia’s ports processed a total of 15,562.3 thousand tons in 2024, reflecting a growth of 5.8% over the previous year. General cargo comprised the majority at 45.7%, followed by liquid bulk at 33.6%, and dry bulk at 20.7%. This increase in cargo handling illustrates the growing importance of Georgia’s maritime infrastructure in supporting both local and global trade.