Haifa Port Restructuring Plan to be Approved by the Government

The National Infrastructure Committee, chaired by Bani Arbib, has decided to forward the plan for restructuring part of Haifa Port (Plan 119) for government approval. The plan, promoted by the Israel Ports Company, is a key step in organizing Haifa Port's areas and preparing them for future development, in line with the needs of the economy and national infrastructure - particularly as part of the major national process of clearing Haifa Bay under Plan 75.

The plan includes the evacuation of the old fuel terminal, one of the oldest facilities in the port that no longer meets the safety and environmental requirements of modern port activity. The operation will be transferred to the new fuel terminal, built to advanced standards, reducing environmental and operational risks and earthquake-resistant. In addition, the "20 Acres" container farm will also be evacuated for the benefit of logistic and storage development that will support the continued growth of port activity.

Furthermore, the plan regulates the old container terminal, established in the 80s and required for planning adjustments. The area's arrangement will allow Haifa Port to streamline processes, meet advanced environmental quality standards, and respond to the growth in shipping volumes.

The evacuation of fuel facilities and the planning upgrade of the port areas are considered critical to the Israeli economy, as they will enable an increase in the reception and distribution capacity of goods, reduce logistical congestion, and support the continued growth of one of Israel's main import gates. Modern and concentrated infrastructures are expected to bring efficiency, shorten handling times, and reduce shipping costs - a significant contribution to trade and the Israeli economy.

Minister Regev said: "The plan approved today deals with a wide area that has not been regulated for many years, clears infrastructure from the Mandate days, and creates a modern basis for the continued development of the port in Haifa."

The Chairman of the Israel Ports Company, Hazi Haleviya, said: "This is a significant plan for both the city of Haifa and the State of Israel. The plan will strengthen the national economy and contribute directly to the economy. The development of Haifa Port and the upgrade of its infrastructure are critical to ensuring growth, creating employment, and strengthening Israel's position as a regional logistics center."

The Chairman of the National Infrastructure Committee, Bani Arbib, noted that: "The transfer of the plan for Haifa Port for government approval is a milestone in the implementation of Plan 75 and the national process of clearing Haifa Bay. This is a vital link in a process that promotes modern infrastructure, reduces environmental damage, and enables the development of space for the benefit of the public and the economy."

The National Infrastructure Committee's planner, Nava Elinson-Radaei, emphasized that the plan brings double good news: "The evacuation of the old fuel terminal and the container farm is an important environmental step, and at the same time creates vital infrastructure for the continued development of the port and to ensure efficient, safe, and modern activity for the benefit of the entire economy."