Haifa Port gears up to become the region’s leading hub – under the ownership of Adani Ports
Two years after the privatization of Israel’s leading maritime gateway, with 70% now owned by Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, Dr. Ron Malka, Chairman of the Board and former Ambassador to India, reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and the port’s promising future
Haifa Port, the most significant maritime gateway in Israel, has undergone a remarkable transformation since its acquisition in January 2023 by India’s Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd and the Israeli Gadot Group. Adani Ports, a global giant in port operations, and Gadot, an international leader in maritime logistics, bring a wealth of expertise and strategic vision to the partnership.
Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including the war that erupted on October 7th, 2023, Haifa Port remains at the heart of ambitious international initiatives like the IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corr
idor). This project, led by the U.S. and Indian governments in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, Israel, the UAE, and European nations, underscores the port’s critical role as a global trade nexus.
Dr. Ron Malka, with his distinguished career as Israel’s Ambassador to India, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Economy, and now as Chairman of Haifa Port, shared his insights on the port’s recent milestones and strategic plans.
Dr. Ron Malka, Chairman of Haifa Port’s Board and former Israeli Ambassador to India
- How would you summarize two years of Haifa Port under the ownership of Adani and Gadot?
Dr. Ron Malka: “Taking over Israel’s most strategically located maritime hub, was both a responsibility and an opportun
ity. For our owners, Adani and Gadot, this was a strategic decision, in order to enhance and expand the port’s capabilities. Established by the British in the 1930s, the port carries a historical legacy dating back to the heroic Battle of Haifa in World War I, in which Indian cavalry forces played a pivotal role.
Today, we aim to further this legacy by transforming Haifa Port into a central hub for both maritime and land-based trade. With Gautam Adani ™s visionary leadership and Adani Ports™ proven expertise in modernizing ports across India, we are well-positioned to make Haifa Port a cornerstone of global trade”.
- What state was Haifa Port in when you assumed leadership, and did it meet your expectations?
“We inherited a professional and versatile port capable of handling a wide range of cargo – containers, bulk, general cargo, and Ro-Ro shipments. The workforce is highly skilled and dependable. However, we operate in an increasingly competitive environment, with new container terminals in Haifa and Ashdod intensifying the race.
While Haifa Port is ren
owned for providing the best service in Israel, we face challenges related to labor costs, which impact our competitiveness. Addressing these requires innovative strategies to ensure we remain the preferred choice across all cargo sectors”.
- What were the main challenges in the past year, and how did you overcome them?
“The war that erupted on October 7th, 2023, brought unprecedented challenges, such as redirecting ships from the ports of Ashdod and Eilat. Attacks in the Red Sea highlighted Haifa Port’s critical role as Israel’s primary import hub for vehicles and other goods.
In the first month of the war,
while more than 10% of our workforce was recruited, we handled 39% of Israel’s incoming containers and 50% of vehicle imports. During certain periods, we managed nearly 100% of vehicle imports. This was achieved through rapid logistical adaptations and the extraordinary dedication of our employees.
Despite the turmoil, Haifa Port maintained full operations, ensuring an uninterrupted flow of vital goods. Global clients frequently inquired about our ability to sustain operations, and it was a source of pride to assure them that we were fully operational and delivering world-class service”.
- Can you share some memorable moments from the past year?
“The most inspiring moments involved our employees’ commitment to the community. From assisting southern communities affected by the conflict to housing displaced residents’ belongings in port containers, their spirit of volunteerism and mutual support was remarkable. These efforts reflect our organizational values and deepen our connection to the community”.
- Haifa Port is frequently mentioned in the context of IMEC. How do you see its role in this initiative?
“The war and Red Sea crises underscored the urgent need for alternative East-West trade corridors, and IMEC is that solution. This corridor connects Indian ports to the UAE and then to Saudi Arabia, Jordan and to Israel via rail, culminating at Haifa Port for onward transit to Europe and the U.S. It offers a faster, more efficient route than the traditional Red Sea passage.
IMEC will establish Haifa as a global trade hub. While Israeli ports are smaller than their Indian counterparts, we are poised for significant growth and ready to meet future challenges”.
- What are your plans for 2025?
“In 2025, we aim to solidify Haifa Port’s position as Israel’s leading port and elevate it to the ranks of the world’s top maritime hubs. Key initiatives include opening three new berths for general cargo and introducing advanced quay cranes to enhance operational efficiency.
Additionally, we will launch the city’s waterfront development plan, featuring a new international Cruise Terminal and expanded commercial zones, transforming the port into a dynamic economic and cultural hub. These investments reflect our commitment to excellence and our vision for sustained growth”.
Dr. Malka’s optimism and forward-looking strategy underscore Haifa Port’s vital role in global trade and its unwavering commitment to serving Israel and the international community. With Adani Ports and Gadot steering its future, Haifa Port is set to thrive as a key player in the region’s economic landscape.
For more information: www.haifapor
