Shipping Arabia, November 1, 2026 – The Port of Beirut has highlighted progress on its development projects and plans to strengthen logistics connectivity during a visit by a delegation from CCI France Liban, the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lebanon. Several port modernization initiatives have moved from planning into implementation, as the port administration works to expand its capabilities and reinforce its position in regional and international trade.
The delegation, led by CCI France Liban President Maxence Duault, met with Marwan Naffi, Chairman and Director General of the Port of Beirut. The visit formed part of the inaugural edition of the chamber’s “Une Nouvelle Perspective” (A New Perspective) initiative, which aims to introduce members to strategic institutions and facilities across Lebanon.
CCI France Liban Delegation Reviews Port Operations
During the visit, delegation members toured the Port of Beirut to observe its operational activities and gain firsthand insights into its facilities and working procedures.
The tour provided an opportunity to examine various aspects of port operations and understand the facility’s contribution to Lebanon’s economic and commercial activities. Discussions also addressed the port’s role in supporting trade connections between Lebanon and regional markets.
Following the tour, Naffi presented an overview of the Port of Beirut’s history, strategic importance and contribution to the Lebanese economy. He also highlighted the historical connections between the port and France, providing context for the delegation’s discussions with the port administration.
Port of Beirut Development Projects Move Into Implementation
During the meeting, Naffi outlined developments affecting the maritime transport and port sectors, alongside the modernization initiatives being pursued by the Port of Beirut administration.
He confirmed that several Port of Beirut development projects have progressed from the planning stage into implementation, reflecting efforts to modernize the facility and strengthen its operational capabilities.
The initiatives form part of a broader vision to expand port capacity, improve operations and reinforce Beirut’s position within regional and international maritime trade networks.
Naffi also discussed the changing international trade environment and the evolution of maritime corridors, emphasizing the importance of adapting port infrastructure and logistics capabilities to emerging industry developments.
Logistics Connectivity and Evolving Trade Corridors
A key focus of the discussions was the development of logistics connectivity to support the Port of Beirut’s future role in regional trade.
Naffi outlined projects aimed at improving the port’s logistics connections and expanding its capabilities as a regional logistics hub. These efforts are intended to strengthen the port’s contribution to maritime transport and facilitate its integration into wider trade and logistics networks.
The discussion also addressed changes in international trade corridors, including the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), as part of the broader developments influencing regional and global trade connectivity.
Against this backdrop, the port administration’s development plans aim to improve operational capabilities and strengthen the Port of Beirut’s position within the changing maritime and logistics environment.
Strengthening Dialogue with the French Business Community
Duault thanked Naffi and the Port of Beirut administration for receiving the delegation and providing an opportunity to observe the port’s activities firsthand.
He emphasized the importance of direct engagement and exchanging perspectives with the institutions that play significant roles in Lebanon’s economy and commercial infrastructure.
Duault also expressed CCI France Liban’s interest in maintaining communication and exploring continued cooperation with the Port of Beirut on matters of mutual interest.
The visit provided a platform for dialogue between the port administration and members of the French-Lebanese business community, while highlighting ongoing development projects and the port’s plans to enhance its logistics capabilities.
Source: Port of Beirut
