UN/LOCODE: FRFOS📍 France
Port of Fos-sur-Mer (UN/LOCODE FRFOS)
❖ Coordinates: 43.4300°N, 4.9300°E
❖ Time Zone: Europe/Paris
❖ UN/LOCODE: FRFOS
## About the Port
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer, located in the Bouches-du-Rhône region of France, is a significant maritime facility situated at the northernmost point of the Mediterranean Sea. With a UN/LOCODE of FRFOS, this port operates within the Europe/Paris timezone, at coordinates 43.43 Latitude and 4.93 Longitude. As a major industrial and port complex, Fos-sur-Mer plays a crucial role in the French economy, handling a substantial volume of cargo and serving as a key gateway for international trade.
### Location and Accessibility
The port's strategic location allows for easy access to major shipping lanes, facilitating trade with countries across the Mediterranean, Europe, and beyond. Its proximity to the Gulf of Lion↗ and the Rhône River estuary makes it an ideal hub for the transportation of goods, including petroleum products, containerized cargo, and bulk commodities.
## History
The development of the Port of Fos-sur-Mer began in the 1960s, with the aim of creating a major industrial and port complex to support France's economic growth. The construction of the port was a response to the country's need for a modern, efficient, and large-scale facility to handle the increasing volume of international trade. Over the years, the port has undergone significant expansions and modernization efforts, transforming it into one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean.
### Evolution and Expansion
The port's history is marked by several key milestones, including the inauguration of the first oil terminal in 1966 and the introduction of container handling facilities in the 1970s. These developments have enabled the Port of Fos-sur-Mer to adapt to changing market demands and stay competitive in the global maritime industry. Today, the port is a thriving hub of economic activity, with a strong focus on sustainability, safety, and environmental responsibility.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer boasts an impressive array of infrastructure and facilities, designed to support a wide range of maritime operations. The port's layout includes:
* Multiple berths for oil tankers, container ships, and bulk cargo vessels
* Modern container terminals with state-of-the-art handling equipment
* Extensive storage facilities for petroleum products, chemicals, and other commodities
* A network of pipelines and distribution systems for oil and gas
* Warehouses and logistics facilities for cargo processing and storage
### Safety and Security
The port's infrastructure is complemented by a robust safety and security framework, ensuring the protection of people, cargo, and the environment. This includes advanced surveillance systems, emergency response plans, and regular training exercises for port personnel. The Port of Fos-sur-Mer is also certified under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code↗, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and safety.
## Economic Importance
As a major economic hub, the Port of Fos-sur-Mer generates significant revenue and employment opportunities for the region. The port's activities have a direct impact on the local economy, with many businesses and industries relying on the facility for their operations. According to a study by the French National Institute for Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE)↗, the port's economic benefits extend beyond the local area, contributing to the growth and development of the broader French economy.
### Regional Development
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer is a key driver of regional development, with many initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, innovation, and sustainability. The port's proximity to major industrial centers, such as Marseille and Lyon, makes it an attractive location for businesses seeking to establish a presence in the European market.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer is strategically positioned to facilitate trade between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The port's trade routes span the globe, with major cargo including:
* Petroleum products, such as crude oil, refined petroleum, and natural gas
* Containerized cargo, including manufactured goods, food products, and machinery
* Bulk commodities, such as coal, iron ore, and agricultural products
* Project cargo, including oversized and heavy equipment for industrial and construction projects
### International Trade Partners
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer has established strong trade relationships with countries around the world, including key partners in the Mediterranean region, such as Italy, Spain, and Algeria. The port's international connections are further enhanced by its membership in the MedCruise↗ association, which promotes cruising and maritime tourism in the Mediterranean.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
FRFOS
Country
France
Province / Region
Bouches-du-Rhône
Latitude
43.430000
Longitude
4.930000
Timezone
Europe/Paris
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Fos-sur-Mer?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Fos-sur-Mer is FRFOS.
Where is Port of Fos-sur-Mer located?
The Port of Fos-sur-Mer is located in France, Bouches-du-Rhône. Its coordinates are 43.4300°N, 4.9300°E.
What time zone is Port of Fos-sur-Mer in?
Port of Fos-sur-Mer operates in the Europe/Paris time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height0.36 m
Wave Direction167°
Swell Height0.3 m
Data provided by Open-Meteo Marine API
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
📍 Nearby Ports
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