Greece’s Chalkida Shipyards and New Commercial Port Plan Set to Boost Maritime Economy, Ship Repair and Regional Trade
Greece is advancing its long-term maritime development strategy as Chalkida Shipyards and a planned new commercial port are expected to transform the city into a stronger hub for ship repair, port infrastructure, maritime investment, shipping services and regional trade, according to statements by Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Vassilis Kikilias during his visit to the shipyard facilities.
During the visit, Minister Vassilis Kikilias toured the Chalkida Shipyards, met with employees, and held discussions with Chalkis Shipyards CEO Ashraf Bayoumi, regional and local government officials, as well as representatives of the shipyard management and workforce. According to Greece’s Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, the meetings focused on future expansion plans for the shipyards alongside the development of a new commercial port that is expected to strengthen the region’s maritime economy.
Kikilias described Chalkida Shipyards as a high-quality shipbuilding and ship repair facility that plays a vital role in the local economy. He noted that the shipyard’s operations directly and indirectly support around 600 families, highlighting the importance of maritime industries in creating sustainable employment.
“The combination of maritime professions, shipyards, energy and the development of commercial activity in our ports is a recipe for success,” Kikilias said, adding that such investments create well-paid jobs for future generations while strengthening Greece’s maritime sector.
The minister emphasized that connecting the shipyard’s activities with the proposed commercial port offers significant opportunities for future growth. He said the government aims to strengthen employment while supporting investments that enhance commercial shipping activities without compromising the city’s unique character or natural beauty.
According to the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, Kikilias stressed that the integrated development of the shipyards and the new port forms part of a broader vision for the next 25 years, aimed at expanding commercial activity, improving logistics infrastructure and increasing regional economic competitiveness.
He also urged the relevant authorities and stakeholders to accelerate planning procedures so institutional approvals can move forward and construction work can begin as soon as possible. Kikilias said the government intends to develop maritime business clusters around ports across Greece, encouraging investment, innovation and long-term employment opportunities throughout coastal regions.
Regional Governor of Central Greece Fanis Spanos described Chalkida Shipyards as strategic private-sector infrastructure for the region, expressing confidence that continued private investment will generate sustainable economic growth while maintaining environmental protection and respect for employees.
Spanos also highlighted the significance of the proposed commercial port, calling it an important project not only for the city of Chalkida but for the wider economy of Central Greece.
Meanwhile, Evia Member of Parliament Simos Kedikoglou pointed to the shipyard’s remarkable recovery in recent years. He noted that the facility has expanded from almost no activity in 2019 to servicing more than 130 ships annually, reflecting growing confidence from the maritime industry.
Kedikoglou added that the shipyard is now consistently occupied with vessels and has expanded with a larger dock, while the planned commercial port nearby is expected to create an even stronger maritime and logistics hub for Central Greece.
He further stated that the development has been achieved without public contracts, noting that the shipyards are debt-free and that growth has been driven by private-sector investment and support from Greek shipowners.
The planned integration of modern shipyard facilities, expanded port infrastructure, and increased commercial shipping capacity is expected to reinforce Greece’s position as a competitive maritime nation while supporting regional economic development, maritime logistics and the broader blue economy, according to information released by the Greek Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy.
