Mersin International Port Management Inc. (MIP), a key gateway terminal in Türkiye and a joint venture between PSA International, IFM, and Akfen, officially completed the first phase of its US$455 million East Med Hub 2 (EMH2) Terminal.
Scheduled for full completion in the first half of 2026, the new terminal will expand MIP’s annual capacity from 2.6 million TEUs to 3.6 million TEUs and enable the simultaneous handling of two Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).
The first phase of the project included the finalisation of all dredging works and the official inauguration of the newly extended quay wall – now stretching 880 metres, from its original 500 metres, with a 17.5-metre draft that can handle the next generation of container vessels of up to 24,000 TEUs.
Atilla Toros, Mersin Governor, stated: “With this investment, which will increase its container handling capacity from 2.6 million to 3.6 million TEUs, the port is set to achieve even greater heights in a very short time. Positioned as one of the most strategic stops along the modern Silk Road, Mersin Port now spans 124 hectares, making it even stronger and more ambitious. As the largest multi-purpose port in Turkey, Mersin Port continues to make a significant contribution to the Turkish economy by providing direct employment to 5,000 people and indirect employment to 30,000 others.”
With Phase 1 completed, MIP is moving ahead with the development of its new 17.6-hectare yard as part of the second phase. This area will be outfitted with eight advanced automated Rail Mounted Gantry Cranes (aRMGs) and four additional Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes, which together will enhance operational capabilities and further increase port efficiency.
The new electrically powered equipment will also help the Turkish port reach its ambitious sustainability targets of cutting its carbon emissions in half by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2043.
Vincent Ng, Regional CEO of PSA Europe & Mediterranean and PSA Middle East South Asia, commented, “We look forward to the full completion of EMH2 in 2026 and remain firmly committed to investing in the future of Mersin Port. As part of PSA’s ‘Node to Network’ strategy and our Group’s transition to net zero emissions by 2043, MIP stands as a key example of our dedication to operational excellence and sustainable development.”
