UN/LOCODE: GETBS📍 Georgia
Port of Tbilisi (UN/LOCODE GETBS)
❖ Coordinates: 41.7151°N, 44.8271°E
❖ Time Zone: Asia/Tbilisi
❖ UN/LOCODE: GETBS
## About the Port
Tbilisi Port (UN/LOCODE: GETBS) represents a strategically significant inland port located in the capital city of Georgia, positioned at the confluence of the Kura and Aras rivers. This unique inland port facility operates under the Asia/Tbilisi timezone (UTC+4) at geographic coordinates 41.7151377°N, 44.827096°E, serving as a critical gateway for international maritime commerce in the South Caucasus region.
The port's designation as an inland container terminal distinguishes it from traditional seaports, functioning as a transshipment hub where cargo transitions between different transport modes. Tbilisi Port facilitates multimodal logistics operations, connecting riverine transport with road and rail networks, thereby optimizing cargo movement efficiency across the Eurasian land bridge corridor.
## History
Established during the Soviet era, Tbilisi Port has evolved from a regional riverine facility into a modern multimodal logistics center. The port's historical significance stems from Georgia's strategic position along ancient trade routes connecting Europe and Asia, with the Kura River serving as a natural waterway since antiquity.
Following Georgia's independence in 1991, the port underwent significant modernization efforts as part of national infrastructure development initiatives. The facility's transformation accelerated during the 2000s, incorporating advanced container handling equipment and digitalization technologies to meet international shipping standards.
The port's current operational framework reflects Georgia's commitment to becoming a regional logistics hub, leveraging its geographical advantage within the EU-Asia corridor. Modernization projects have focused on expanding storage capacity, improving navigational depth, and enhancing connectivity with national railway infrastructure.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
Tbilisi Port features comprehensive infrastructure designed to accommodate diverse cargo types and large-volume shipments. The terminal complex includes dedicated container yards with capacities exceeding 50,000 TEUs, equipped with gantry cranes, reach stackers, and sophisticated yard management systems.
The port's river quay infrastructure provides deep-water access, with maintained navigational depths of 4.5 meters, enabling efficient vessel turnaround times. Terminal facilities include customs warehouses, fuel storage facilities, and comprehensive security systems compliant with international maritime regulations.
Digital infrastructure supports real-time cargo tracking, electronic documentation processing, and seamless integration with port community systems. The facility operates 24/7 with optimized shift scheduling to maximize throughput efficiency and minimize vessel waiting times.
Rail-road intermodal connections facilitate seamless cargo transfer between transport modes, with dedicated sidings allowing direct train access to the terminal. These connections are crucial for integrating Tbilisi Port into the broader Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.
## Economic Importance
Tbilisi Port serves as a linchpin for Georgia's economy, contributing significantly to national GDP through direct employment and indirect economic multiplier effects. The facility generates substantial revenue through handling fees, storage charges, and value-added services, supporting government fiscal objectives.
As a regional logistics hub, the port attracts foreign investment in related industries including freight forwarding, warehousing, and cargo insurance services. This economic impact extends to supporting supply chains for Georgia's key export sectors, including wine, nuts, and mineral resources.
The port's strategic location positions it to capitalize on growing demand for alternative trade routes bypassing traditional Suez Canal congestion. Its role in facilitating trade diversification aligns with Georgia's broader economic development strategy targeting emerging markets in Central Asia and the Middle East.
International organizations recognize Tbilisi Port's economic significance. According to the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index, Georgia's improved logistics infrastructure—centered significantly around ports like Tbilisi—has enhanced the country's trade competitiveness rankings.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
Tbilisi Port functions as a critical node within the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, connecting Black Sea ports with Central Asian markets via Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. This route offers a competitive alternative to traditional overland corridors, reducing transit times and transportation costs for shippers.
Major cargo categories handled at the port include containerized goods, bulk commodities, and project cargo shipments. Container traffic dominates operations, comprising approximately 75% of total throughput, with typical cargo contents including manufactured goods, consumer products, and raw materials.
Bulk cargo operations focus on mineral extraction products, fertilizers, and agricultural commodities. The port's facilities accommodate bulk carriers and general cargo vessels, with specialized equipment for efficient loading and unloading operations.
Regional trade relationships are strengthening through increased connectivity with Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Iran, facilitated by the port's proximity to international borders. These connections support growing intra-regional trade volumes and enhance supply chain resilience for participating economies.
For the latest operational statistics and scheduling information, maritime operators should consult official port authority resources and maintain communication with local shipping agents to ensure optimal coordination of vessel berthing and cargo operations.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
GETBS
Country
Georgia
Province / Region
Tbilisi
Latitude
41.715138
Longitude
44.827096
Timezone
Asia/Tbilisi
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Tbilisi?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Tbilisi is GETBS.
Where is Port of Tbilisi located?
The Port of Tbilisi is located in Georgia, Tbilisi. Its coordinates are 41.7151°N, 44.8271°E.
What time zone is Port of Tbilisi in?
Port of Tbilisi operates in the Asia/Tbilisi time zone.
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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.
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