Ultimatum to Greece: Severe border congestion threatens international transport and Bulgarian carriers

International road haulage organizations have issued an official ultimatum to the Greek government due to the critical situation at the "Kipoi" border control point on the border with Turkey. Prolonged congestion and exhausting wait times for drivers are creating serious tension across the entire transport sector.

Following a detailed on-site inspection conducted by the Federation of Greek Road Hauliers (OFAE) in conjunction with representatives from the Organization for Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC-URTA) and drivers from Turkey, North Macedonia, and Albania, it was confirmed that the situation is extraordinary. According to experts, delays are already reaching critical levels of 72 hours, which calls into question the physical and mental well-being of the drivers.

Impact on Bulgaria
The problem is not merely local and directly affects the economic interests of regional players. Bulgarian transport companies are among those most heavily affected, as they use this strategic route for deliveries to Turkey, the Middle East, and Asia. Long stays at the border lead to disrupted schedules, additional costs for carriers, and ultimately – increased commodity prices for end consumers.

Demands and threats of protests
Transport organizations are insisting on immediate measures from the Greek state, including infrastructure modernization and restoring the capacity of the crossing point. Carriers warn that if concrete steps are not taken to rationalize traffic, they will undertake retaliatory actions and protests, similar to previous farmer blockades in the region.

The "Kipoi" border crossing remains one of the most important land corridors between the European Union and Turkey, and its efficiency is crucial for the stability of international trade throughout the Balkan region.