Barcelona's port gains clout in trade with Italy

The Port of Barcelona and shipping company Grimaldi Lines are promoting a new form of transport: the motorways of the sea, namely the transport of trucks by boat during a part of their journey. The initiative is already gaining force between Barcelona and the Italian ports of Civitavecchia (Rome) and Livorno.

"Motorways of the sea are the future of the Mediterranean transport both for passengers and trucks; they also help reduce pollution and congestion," CEO Emanuele Grimaldi said. The shippìng group also plans to add a route between Barcelona and Porto Torres (Sardinia).

Grimaldi Lines is also interested in getting a business license to operate its own cargo and passenger facilities at the new terminal being built at Barcelona's Prat wharf. Invitation to tender is expected in March.

Source: El Economista 26/01/2009