Port of Brčko modernised with support from EBRD and EU

• Modernisation of infrastructure will improve links between river, rail and road transport networks
• Increases in capacity and efficiency will create new opportunities for trade and business development
• Project financed by EBRD and EU under Western Balkans Investment Framework

Today, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Union (EU), representatives of Brčko District and other partners marked the successful completion of a project aimed at modernising the Port of Brčko – a landmark investment that will strengthen trade, connectivity and economic opportunities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This investment has upgraded the country’s only river port through the reconstruction of the port plateau, the installation of a modern high-capacity crane and improvements to access infrastructure. The project has significantly enhanced the port’s operational efficiency and capacity, positioning it as an important logistics hub for the region.

The modernisation work was financed by a €10 million EBRD loan and a €3 million EU grant provided through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF).

Speaking at an event marking the end of the project, Stela Melnic, the EBRD’s Head of Bosnia and Herzegovina, said: “The completion of this project represents an important milestone for Brčko District and Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole. By modernising the country’s only river port, we are helping to improve connectivity, facilitate trade and create new opportunities for businesses. This investment demonstrates the impact that strong partnerships can deliver and will contribute to the long-term competitiveness and economic development of the country.”

Speaking at the ceremony, the Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH, Luigi Soreca highlighted the strategic importance of the infrastructure project: "A modern port means better conditions for businesses, more efficient transport of goods, stronger trade links and new opportunities for economic growth and development”. Recalling the importance of demining the Sava for safe and efficient navigation, Ambassador Soreca also announced that the EU has pledged €8 million to support the development of river transport in BiH through the “Demining of the Right Bank of the Sava River” project. He also noted that half of the almost €1 billion allocated to Bosnia and Herzegovina under the Growth Plan are reserved for infrastructure projects under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), and called on the relevant authorities not to miss the opportunity to receive investment for vital infrastructure. 

The Port of Brčko occupies a strategic position at the intersection of the country’s river, rail and road transport networks, serving as an important gateway for the movement of goods across Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond. Prior to this project, much of the port’s infrastructure and equipment had become outdated, including cranes that had been in operation for more than 50 years. The modernisation work has addressed these constraints, ensuring that the port’s infrastructure is capable of meeting modern logistics and transport needs. 

This investment is expected to increase the port’s cargo-handling capacity, improve its operational efficiency and attract new business activity, helping to strengthen Bosnia and Herzegovina’s links with regional and European markets. The project forms part of the European Commission’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, which aims to improve regional connectivity, support sustainable growth and bring the region closer to the EU. 

The EBRD remains one of the leading institutional investors in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To date, the Bank has invested more than €3.5 billion in the country through projects supporting private-sector competitiveness, sustainable infrastructure and the transition to a green economy.