At the end of a shared administrative process involving the Port System Authority, trade unions, and industry associations, a two-year extension of the towing service concession in the port of Taranto, held by Rimorchiatori Napoletani since 2009, has been granted—as announced by the local Port Authority.
The extension was described as a necessary choice in a context of severe commercial traffic decline that has long penalized the port of Taranto, but also as a sign of confidence from institutions and operators in the prospect of economic recovery. “In recent months, the Maritime Authority has adopted targeted measures to support the sector, including Ordinance No. 109 of April 22, 2025, which experimentally introduced a service restructuring. The goal was to maintain unchanged safety standards while ensuring the economic sustainability of operations and avoiding further issues,” explained a note from the Port Authority circulated to local press.
“Simultaneously, a complex investigative procedure was concluded in coordination with the General Directorate for the Sea and Maritime Transport of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, allowing the freezing of service rates for 2025. This measure was adopted to ensure regularity and continuity for maritime traffic while awaiting a more stable and certain outlook for the port’s commercial prospects. Also noteworthy is the resolution of the tugboat crews’ state of agitation, which lasted about 8 months, achieved through a new labor agreement. The Maritime Authority closely monitored the dispute, also addressing operational challenges related to strikes.”
The hope expressed is that the recovery of port traffic will soon enable a level of stability sufficient to initiate the process for renewing the towing service concession, deemed essential for the regular operation and safety of the port. “The Port Authority of Taranto, ahead of the scheduled leadership change on September 11, reaffirms its commitment to ensuring attention and support for the sector, convinced that only constant collaboration between institutions and operators can deliver concrete and lasting results.”
