SOCAR Terminal expands as strategic, tech-driven logistics hub in Türkiye

SOCAR Terminal, a key asset of Azerbaijan’s SOCAR Group in Türkiye, is positioning itself not just as a container port, but as a sustainable, technology-driven and strategically located logistics base, the company’s General Manager Uğur Değirmenci said.

Located in the Aegean region, SOCAR Terminal is Türkiye’s largest container terminal and is covered by the Turkish government’s "Large-Scale Investment Incentive Certificate", which supports major projects aligned with national logistics strategies.

“In today’s global trade environment, we can accommodate ultra-large container ships (ULCS) thanks to our deep-draft berths. That gives us a competitive edge not only regionally but globally,” Değirmenci told reporters.

Record throughput and growth

In 2023, SOCAR Terminal handled 630 vessels, marking a 13% year-on-year increase. “This growth reflects both the region’s rising trade capacity and our readiness to meet demand,” said Değirmenci.

The terminal plays a critical role in both import-export operations and industrial logistics across the western Türkiye region. Its operations extend beyond loading and unloading, contributing to value-added services and broader supply chains.

Capacity and infrastructure

With a current installed capacity of 1.5 million TEU, the terminal sits on a 320,000 square-meter area and has a berth depth of 18.5 meters. The 700-meter quay enables access for the world’s largest vessels. SOCAR Terminal also boasts a fully automated container handling system, increasing efficiency and reducing turnaround time.

Planned investments will bring an additional capacity of 1 million TEU, supported by new cranes and equipment upgrades.

Değirmenci emphasized the terminal’s environmental focus, citing steps taken to reduce carbon emissions. “We follow ISO 14064-1:2018 standards for carbon footprint accounting, and we are evaluating solar energy and more energy-efficient port equipment,” he said.

“We’re not only running a port; we’re developing an integrated logistics platform guided by sustainability, technology and strategic vision,” he added.

SOCAR Terminal expands as strategic, tech-driven logistics hub in Türkiye