A delegation of Tunisian and Egyptian officials visited Italy’s key grain ports in Ravenna and Bari, as well as a modern inland facility, to explore advanced grain handling and storage solutions. Organized by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the tour aimed to gather insights on upgrading grain handling and storage, including investments in technology, infrastructure and logistics.

At Ravenna’s port, which plays a key role in Italy’s grain trade, delegates observed high-efficiency unloading systems and large-scale silos capable of storing 380 000 tonnes of grain. The unloading efficiency of this port helps to reduce ships’ waiting time, and costs, which made an impression on the visitors. Planned upgrades to the port area include deepening the seabed to allow for larger ships, expanded rail links and digital logistics. Bari’s port, though smaller, matches Ravenna’s in terms of traffic and outputs, thanks to streamlined operations and outsourced services. Both ports are investing in renewable energy to reduce costs and environmental impact.

The group also toured Agri Viesti, a local grain company with advanced silos and predictive maintenance systems. Delegates praised Italy’s risk-based inspection protocols, infrastructure upgrades and commitment to sustainability.

“This visit will influence future silo projects in Tunisia,” said Soufiane Koubaa of Tunisia’s Office des Céréales.

Delegates were keen to highlight how what they had seen during their visit would influence future silo projects in Tunisia in terms of new technology and a focus on efficiency, in addition to recognizing the value of public-private cooperation and sustainable energy use.

The exchange builds on FAO and EBRD’s broader initiative to share best practices and foster regional collaboration in grain supply chain resilience.

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