German media: The Durrës Port project, a symbol of international scandals and intrigues

An article by the German media Focus has raised accusations against the Albanian government regarding the multi-billion project of the Port of Durrës, including Prime Minister Edi Rama and other high officials in suspected corruption schemes and agreements with international networks.

The article qualifies the project as a symbol of international intrigues and wrong political decisions that have undermined trust in Albanian institutions.

According to Focus, the Port of Durrës, once a key economic center for Albania, has been at the center of controversy since the termination of the contract with the German company EMS Shipping Trading GMBH, which had taken over the management of the port.

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The billion-dollar project of the Port of Durrës, once hailed as the economic heart of Albania, is increasingly becoming a symbol of international intrigue, wrong political decisions and questionable actions. The latest revelations reveal a network of Croatian front companies, international business connections and suspected criminal structures that could further shake confidence in Prime Minister Edi Rama's government.

For years, the Port of Durrës has been at the center of political and economic controversies. The initial contract with EMS Shipping Trading GMBH of Germany, aimed at managing the port, had attracted much attention. But the Albanian government unilaterally canceled the agreement to pave the way for a new tourist project.

The turning point occurred in July 2024, when EMS suddenly withdrew its international lawsuit and sold the concession for 13 million euros to the Croatian company Schapha d.o.o. The transaction, which initially seemed harmless, raises many questions when analyzed more deeply.

Schapha doo: A dubious front company
Why would a small Croatian company take on such a risky contract? This is the question that experts in Berlin and Brussels have raised.

Research shows that Schapha doo is a front company, connected not only to powerful Croatian actors, but also to Albanian interests. Its purpose appears to be to secure control over the planned new port at Porto Romano, a project considered strategically important to the region.

The role of MAERSK and unclear links
A key role in this matter is played by the former director of the Port of Durrës. According to sources, this happened with the knowledge and approval of the Minister of Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku, who is said to have instructed her to establish contacts with the multinational logistics giant MAERSK. MAERSK's regional director for the Adriatic region is considered a key figure.

The result: With Schapha doo as a front company, an Albanian oligarch, with the support of MAERSK's regional managers, can secure the exclusive operating rights for the new port in Porto Romano for the next 45 years. Although the tender for this project has not yet been officially announced, critics suspect that it is a manipulated and predetermined process.

A global network: From Croatia to Latin America
The case is made more serious by the connections of the owners of Schapha doo with Ecuador and Colombia. Sources have expressed concern that these countries, which are being monitored by the DEA, could be increasingly used as potential routes for drug trafficking destined for Albania.

These revelations could have major consequences for Albania, as experts warn that the government, through its lack of control over international investors, may have inadvertently favored criminal networks.

Political implications: Government under pressure
The latest revelations cast a heavy shadow over the Albanian government. The Minister of Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku, and Prime Minister Edi Rama are facing strong criticism. The opposition accuses them of corruption and incompetence in managing large projects.

At the international level, this issue risks escalating. German and European investors may see this case as a negative example, using it to avoid future projects in Albania. The involvement of MAERSK, a multinational company, may also attract the attention of the media and international institutions.

A wake-up call for Albania
The drama surrounding the Port of Durrës shows how Albania is divided between aspirations for economic development and the reality of unclear political networks. International actors and the European Union can demand independent investigations and transparent procedures to restore confidence in the country.

At risk is not only a multi-billion port project. At stake is the credibility of Albania as a country that aims to attract foreign investors and the stability of a state that risks being used as a tool in international power games.