Coal transshipment to be banned in Nakhodka and Vladivostok from 2027

Coal transshipment in the Primorsky region will face major restrictions from 2027 as authorities move cargo handling away from populated city areas.

Authorities of the Primorsky region in the Russian Far East have approved a full ban on coal transshipment within city boundaries starting in 2027, redirecting coal cargoes to specialized terminals outside populated areas, including the ports of Vostochny and Sukhodol.

The first restrictions on the handling of flammable, toxic and explosive cargoes will be introduced as early as 2026. The document was signed by the regional governor Oleg Kozhemyako.

The decision is aimed at reducing the environmental impact of port operations and eliminating safety risks for the local population. Coal dust, noise and emissions from transshipment have long been a source of concern for residents of Primorsky cities, particularly Vladivostok and Nakhodka. Going forward, hazardous cargoes will be handled exclusively at specialized facilities outside city limits, while container operations at ports within urban areas will continue.

Separately, the management of Vladivostok Sea Fishing Port (VMRP) has decided to exit coal handling. Sergei Darkin, a shareholder in the port and former governor of the Primorsky region, said the decision was intended to improve the quality of life for city residents.

In 2025, coal transshipment at VMRP increased to 1.2 mio t (+0.3 mio t or +33.3% y-o-y). Neighboring Vladivostok Sea Commercial Port handled 3.1 mio t of coal last year.

Coal terminals in Nakhodka in 2025 transshipped 17.6 mio t (-0.4 mio t or -2.2% y-o-y).

Source: CCA