TURKEY —The Asian Development Bank has signed a $40 million loan with Arkas Holding to improve the capacity and sustainability of maritime logistics and infrastructure in Türkiye, marking ADB's first private sector infrastructure transaction in the country since commencing operations in October 2025, according to an official announcement. The financing will support Arkas Group's capital expenditure program over the next eight years to modernise its maritime fleet and expand its logistics capacity and port infrastructure, enhancing efficiency and resilience across key shipping routes in the Black Sea and Mediterranean corridors.
ADB is a multilateral development bank founded in 1966, owned by 69 members. Arkas Holding was founded in İzmir, Türkiye, in 1902, operating across maritime and port services, integrated logistics solutions including sea, land, rail, and air transportation, as well as automotive, insurance, information technologies, and tourism. The investment supports ADB's strategic objective to scale up private-sector financing in gateway economies to strengthen trade competitiveness and boost regional connectivity along the Middle Corridor connecting Asia and Europe.
This development matters for Türkiye's maritime logistics sector, where the country holds a strategic position for trade between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The financing will support fleet modernisation, port and logistics investments, operational efficiency, and sustainability initiatives, helping meet international safety and environmental regulations while reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
For the shipping and logistics industry, the reforms are expected to boost trade, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth by facilitating smoother cargo flows and increasing operational capacity. The investment signals the first step toward a lasting partnership to support Arkas Group's future investments and expansion across the region.
