On 30 September the works started on Lot 3 of the EU-funded project Reconstruction and Modernisation of the River Port of Brčko Phase 1 and are planned to be completed in March 2025. The final component of the project is the construction of the industrial railway from the Port to Brčko Novo railway station. New industrial tracks will be constructed over 1.3 km, and the existing tracks running through parts of the city will be removed. The construction of a new railway overpass completes this component. Works are expected to be completed in March 2025.

At the start of the works ceremony, Perica Josić underlined the strategic interest of the project: “We will soon complete Phase 1 of the reconstruction and modernisation of the Brčko Port. This is important not only for Brčko District but also for the whole of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Investing in this structure will be the driver of new economic development."

The modernisation addresses the urgent need to upgrade the port's infrastructure, as much of its equipment was outdated, including cranes dating back over 50 years. 

The port received a €3 million grant from the European Union, supplemented by a €7 million favourable loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to upgrade its infrastructure. The installation of the state-of-the-art crane is a notable achievement and comes on the heels of the successful completion of the port plateau in 2022. 

The investment in the Brčko Port modernisation project underscores the EU's commitment to fostering economic development and connectivity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, paving the way for enhanced trade and prosperity in the region.

The Brčko Port modernisation project is a key part of the European Commission's Economic and Investment Plan to improve transportation in the Western Balkans. 

Port of Brcko video (c) WBIF 2024