By doing this, the strategic importance of Ukraine as a hub for continental container traffic is emphasized, and at the same time, its position in European rail freight traffic is strengthened, according to the company. Angela Titzrath, CEO of HHLA:
"HHLA has been active in Ukraine for over 20 years – we want to specifically strengthen and further expand this commitment. Ukraine is and will remain an important growth market with great potential for intermodal freight transport. Especially in challenging times, a powerful and reliable infrastructure is of central importance. The aim is to create a strong intermodal corridor between the EU and Ukraine, thus contributing to economic integration – a bridge-building effort, as the name Eurobridge aptly describes."
In the future, the terminal will be operated under the name "HHLA Eurobridge Batiovo" as
a joint venture of HHLA International GmbH and the Ukrainian investment company Fortior Capital LLC. HHLA will take the majority and further develop the terminal together with its rail subsidiary Metrans. The completion of the transaction is still subject to approval by the Ukrainian competition authority. Philip Sweens, Managing Director of HHLA International GmbH:
"Our investment is a clear commitment to the economic and logistical potential of Ukraine. The Eurobridge Terminal is currently undergoing comprehensive modernization – transforming from a bulk goods terminal to an intermodal hub for container transport. The start of container operations is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025. At the same time, we are expanding our service portfolio to offer customers holistic, efficient, and future-proof logistics solutions."
Key Location for European-Ukrainian Freight Traffic The "HHLA Eurobridge Batiovo" terminal is
located near the EU border at a central junction of several international railway corridors, thus forming an important node for goods traffic between Ukraine, Hungary, and Slovakia.
Thanks to access to tracks with standard gauge (1435 mm) and broad gauge (1520 mm), the terminal claims to be ideally suited as an interface between European and Ukrainian logistics networks.
In the first expansion phase, the terminal is expected to handle around 100,000 TEU annually and is designed for the handling of containers, grain, and other general cargo. If there is corresponding demand, capacity expansion is possible. Peter Kiss, CEO of Metrans:
"With our Europe-wide rail network and experience from operating 20 terminals, we make a significant contribution to integrating the Eurobridge Terminal into the European logistics network. By additionally connecting the terminal to the METRANS
network, we enable our customers to have even more attractive transport solutions towards Ukraine."
With the participation in the Eurobridge Terminal, HHLA strengthens its existing commitment in Ukraine, which already includes the operation of the HHLA Container Terminal Odessa and the local rail operator UIC Ukraine Intermodal Company (UIC). The new partnership improves access to ports and ensures seamless hinterland connections along key transport corridors from the North and Baltic Seas to the Black Sea.
Background
- Terminal area: 69,000 square meters
- Storage area: up to 100,000 TEU in the 1st development stage
- Tracks: Container traffic: two tracks at 1,435 mm (900 meters long); two tracks at 1,520 mm (910 meters long) Bulk goods: two tracks at 1,435 mm (880 meters long); two tracks at 1,520 mm (880 meters long)
- Equipment: two storage cranes (RTG)
