The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan of CNY 755.64 million (equivalent to $106.05 million) to support the development of green, smart, and resilient inland river ports and clean-energy shipping in Anhui Province, People’s Republic of China. The Anhui Province Green Port and Shipping Demonstration Project aims to transform the local port and shipping sector into a more sustainable, digitally advanced, and climate-resilient model.
The project is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to extreme weather events, and strengthen logistics connectivity to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth. It is expected to directly benefit approximately 1.17 million residents, including women, low-income groups, and persons with disabilities, through improved transport efficiency, lower logistics costs, and increased employment opportunities.
ADB Country Director for the PRC, Asif Cheema, emphasized the importance of the project, stating that it demonstrates the powerful impact of integrating low-carbon transport with smart and green port development. He noted that the initiative aligns with both China’s objectives for high-quality, low-carbon development and ADB’s 2021–2025 country partnership strategy for the PRC, while contributing to regional and global public goods such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and more sustainable logistics systems.
Anhui’s rapid industrial growth, including the expansion of its electric vehicle sector, has significantly increased freight demand. However, inland waterways and ports face capacity limitations, reliance on diesel-powered vessels, and climate-related hazards such as flooding and extreme storms. These challenges raise logistics costs, increase emissions, and heighten the vulnerability of riverside communities.
To address these issues, the project will construct green and climate-resilient inland river ports equipped with energy-efficient loading facilities, smart port operation systems, and robust flood protection measures. Diesel-powered container vessels will be replaced with clean-fuel ships, and pilot green shipping routes will connect key logistics hubs. The project also promotes gender-inclusive employment in port operations, with women expected to occupy at least 15 percent of skilled positions.
The initiative will strengthen institutional capacity by conducting studies on expanding the use of clean and alternative fuels, developing green and smart port management guidelines, and providing targeted training on climate resilience and sustainable finance. Knowledge and best practices generated through the project will be shared with other provinces and ADB developing member countries to advance low-carbon inland waterway transport and green port development more broadly.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners, ADB uses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to address complex challenges, transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the environment. Established in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members, including 50 from the region.
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