EU Commission approves Gothenburg Ro-Ro takeover

05 Apr 2012 - Cargo volumes and throughput, RoRo & Passengers, Port Planning

DFDS Seaways and C.Ro Ports have finally had their 25-year concession of Gothenburg's Ro-Ro Terminal (pictured) approved. Image: Port of Gothenburg

• DFDS and C.Ro Ports to begin operating Älvsborg Ro-Ro Terminal from May

The EU Commission finally issued a notice of approval this week for the acquisition of the Älvsborg Ro-Ro Terminal at the Port of Gothenburg, by DFDS Seaways and C.Ro Ports.

The actual takeover is expected to take place at the beginning of May, at which point DFDS and C.Ro Ports will assume responsibility for the terminal and around 280 employees.

Sven Hulterström, Chairman of the Port of Gothenburg, describes it as “a decision eagerly awaited by both employees and customers”.

The Port of Gothenburg signed an agreement with DFDS and C.Ro Ports for the 25-year concession of the Ro-Ro facility back in 2010.

However, following an assessment by the Swedish Competition Authority it was decided that due to the nature of the deal it should be referred to the European Competition Authorities (ECA), which conducted a thorough investigation.

The investigation revealed that there is sufficient competition on the ro-ro routes between Gothenburg and other countries in northern Europe and it is obvious from the agreement between the Port of Gothenburg and the new operator that the terminal must act in a non-discriminatory manner and welcome new customers.

“EU approval means that the final piece in the new Port of Gothenburg organization is in place,” added Hulterström.

“We can now devote all our efforts to focusing on the future and the further development of the principal freight hub in Scandinavia.”