Shipping Arabia, October 19, 2026 – Lebanon’s Port of Tripoli has outlined development plans that include expanding and modernizing its existing container terminal, constructing a new container terminal, improving railway connectivity, and advancing digital transformation. The projects were presented during an official visit by U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, as the port seeks to strengthen its position as a regional logistics hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The ambassador met with Port of Tripoli Chairman Iskandar Bandali and senior port officials, who presented the port’s operational capabilities, infrastructure projects, investment opportunities, and long-term development strategy.
The visit also included discussions on strengthening cooperation with American companies and attracting international investment to support the port’s modernization and competitiveness.
Port of Tripoli Development Plans Focus on Container Terminals and Rail Connectivity
The visit began with a meeting at the Port Administration Building, where officials presented the port’s operational and logistics capabilities, ongoing development initiatives, and key components of its master plan.
Alongside Chairman Iskandar Bandali, the meeting was attended by Vice Chairwoman Sarah Al Charif, Board Members Nour Alameddine and Maryam Eid, and Port Authority Director Ahmad Tamer.
During the discussions, Bandali highlighted the strategic advantages of the Port of Tripoli and its potential to become a major regional logistics hub serving the Eastern Mediterranean.
He outlined several development priorities, including the expansion and modernization of the existing container terminal and the construction of an additional container terminal.
The port’s development plans also include improving connectivity with the railway network and advancing digital transformation to strengthen operational capabilities.
These projects form part of the port administration’s wider vision to expand Tripoli’s role in maritime transport, logistics, and regional trade.
IMEC Connectivity and Investment Opportunities
Bandali also emphasized the importance of the Port of Tripoli’s accession to the IMEC Ports Club Declaration, associated with the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
The initiative formed part of the discussions concerning the port’s future development and its ambitions to strengthen international connectivity.
Furthermore, the chairman highlighted opportunities for cooperation with American companies, stressing the importance of attracting investment to develop port infrastructure and improve competitiveness.
The discussions addressed potential international partnerships and the role of investment in supporting the port’s long-term infrastructure and logistics development.
CMA CGM Representatives Join Container Terminal Tour
Following the meeting, Ambassador Issa toured the Port of Tripoli’s container terminal, accompanied by representatives of CMA CGM.
The shipping group’s representatives included Charles Assaf, Joseph Tawk, and Rami Mortada.
During the field visit, port officials briefed the ambassador on the terminal’s operations, handling capabilities, and supporting infrastructure.
Particular attention was given to the container scanning system and its role in improving cargo inspection efficiency and facilitating the movement of goods through the terminal.
The tour provided an opportunity to review the terminal’s operational capabilities alongside the broader infrastructure development plans presented by the port administration.
U.S. Ambassador Highlights Development Potential of Tripoli and Beirut Ports
Ambassador Michel Issa welcomed the opportunity to visit the Port of Tripoli and commended the commitment of its Board of Directors and employees.
He also expressed appreciation for the development projects and future plans presented during the meeting.
The ambassador emphasized that both the Port of Tripoli and the Port of Beirut have significant development potential. He expressed optimism about Tripoli’s future and the opportunities available to strengthen its economic and logistics role in the region.
The visit concluded with a shared emphasis on developing port infrastructure and logistics services, encouraging investment, and expanding international partnerships.
According to the Port of Tripoli, these priorities are intended to support the Lebanese economy while strengthening the port’s position in regional and international trade.
Source: Port of Tripoli