Senator Lines hits out at Italian ports

“The main problem in Italy is the lack of infrastructure and deficiencies in the rail network, ” he said. “Some is very old.

Improvements can’t be expected soon because of a lack of funds and Italian bureaucracy.

“Because of the characteristics of the Italia coastline and the limited size of existing terminals, there is little room for the extension of existing terminal facilities or for building new terminals.

“Road connections aren’t that bad, but because the majority of terminals are located either in or near city centres, there is often congestion at gates.

Container volumes from Asia to the Mediterranean grew by more than 50% in the last two years, helping many Mediterranean ports achieve double-digit annual growth. But in Italy many facilities recorded only negligible rises with lines complaining of chaotic administration and political appointees.

A spokesman for Italia Marittima said political interference was stifling efficiency and decision-making.

“In Italy there is a chronic lack of investment as far as port and logistics infrastructures are concerned, mainly due to financial reasons, but also for political reasons.”

According to Mr Mohr, bureaucracy and lack of government support was preventing Italy’s ports from playing a full role in Mediterranean shipping.

“Because of the financial situation of the Italian government, there are few plans for new facilities or extending existing ones, ” he said.

“Other facilities have either reached capacity or will do so very soon.”