The Port of Rijeka could soon have a new strategic owner. The largest shareholder, Port Acquisitions A.S., which holds 34.34 percent of the shares, has requested the management to allow a potential buyer to conduct due diligence for the possible sale of part or all of its stake.
As announced via Zagreb Stock Exchange, the request pertains to French company CMA CGM, one of the largest global logistics and shipping conglomerates. The management of the Port of Rijeka stated that they will consider the received request and timely inform the public about any further steps.
Although a formal decision on the sale has not yet been made, the request for due diligence typically marks the entry of the transaction into a serious phase. The potential buyer in this process gains detailed insight into the financial condition, contracts, and operational business of the company, which is a standard prerequisite for making a final investment decision.
CMA CGM’s interest aligns with the strategy of this French group, which has aggressively expanded its presence in port infrastructure and logistics in recent years. It is one of the largest global shipping-logistics conglomerates, with a fleet of over 650 ships and a presence in around 160 countries. In addition to maritime transport, the group is developing its business in the areas of port terminals, logistics, and supply chains. Through its terminal operations, it manages or participates in the management of dozens of terminals worldwide, aiming to connect maritime transport with land logistics.
Therefore, a potential entry into the ownership structure of the Port of Rijeka could be viewed as part of a broader positioning in the Adriatic and Central European market, especially in the context of increasingly pronounced competition among the northern Adriatic ports.
