Port of Beirut: from crisis to competitiveness, a regional hub on the rise

Once seen as a weak link in Lebanon’s economy, the Port of Beirut is gaining momentum. Ranked 54th globally in the World Bank’s 2024 Container Port Performance Index, it posted remarkable 2025 results: over 1.37 million tons of goods handled in the first quarter and ongoing customs reforms.

Long a symbol of the 2020 explosion and chronic state inefficiencies, the Port of Beirut is now emerging as a key driver of Lebanon’s economic recovery. Its rapid climb in international rankings reflects two simultaneous trends: logistical modernization, with scanners capable of processing 60 containers per hour, and a strong political push to better regulate customs flows. While the number of docked vessels has slightly decreased, the tonnage per ship has increased, signaling a move toward higher-value operations. In a country seeking foreign investment, this port turnaround is more than a signal it’s an economic lifeline.

A leap in global rankings

According to the 2024 Container Port Performance Index by the World Bank, Beirut has climbed to 54th worldwide. This is a dramatic improvement from 81st in 2023 and 323rd in 2022, highlighting both infrastructure efficiency and renewed confidence from international logistics partners.

The port’s performance in the first quarter of 2025 confirms this upward trend:

1.37 million tons of goods handled (+14% vs. 2024), 403 vessels docked, slightly fewer than the previous year, but with higher average capacity per ship and 145,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) managed, with a higher average cargo value. These figures reflect a deliberate strategy: lower volume, higher added value, and increased efficiency.

Customs and logistics reforms

Beyond cranes and docks, transformation is happening in the offices. Finance Minister Yassine Jaber has launched a major customs modernization and digitization program, complemented by high-capacity scanners that can analyze up to 60 containers per hour a huge jump from the previous 40 per day.

Additionally, a single-window system connecting ministries such as health, agriculture, trade, and economy is being implemented to accelerate clearance and reduce human intervention, lowering the risk of corruption.

Economic impact and prospects

For Lebanon’s cash-strapped economy, these reforms could be game-changing. Enhanced control over smuggling and customs fraud is expected to generate significant additional revenue for the state, while reassuring foreign investors.

Looking ahead, the Port of Beirut aims to solidify its position as a key regional logistics hub, competing with Tripoli and Gulf ports. Its ability to adapt, modernize, and maintain international standards will determine its long-term success.

From a symbol of collapse, the Port of Beirut has become a symbol of resilience and recovery. Through technological modernization, tighter customs oversight, and higher-value operations, it hopes to reclaim its role as Lebanon’s gateway and establish itself as a major regional player. The challenge now is for the Lebanese state to turn this momentum into a sustainable, long-term strategy.