Ports, infrastructures and logistics

Ports in France, with their access to the Channel, Atlantic and Mediterranean, as well as the French overseas regions and départements, are strategic assets for international trade and developing the country’s industry and economy. They act as an interface between sea and shore, supply the hinterland and benefit the nation’s autonomy.

As ports interact closely with neighbouring towns and cities, and with the country more broadly, they also bear great responsibility for environmental protection. They must become ‘green ports’, blazing a trail for the ecological and energy transitions. Ports must ensure their activities will survive in the long term, with secure infrastructure suited to the new climate reality, including sea level rise and storms. 

Over the past two years, standards and regulations have increasingly prioritised decarbonising economic activity. Developmental projects have also emerged to develop cleaner energy and fuel – LNG, electricity and hydrogen – for the benefit of ports, industry and wider urban areas. 

This strategic action area encompasses:

• Developing port infrastructure, integrating it into the environment – particularly in urban areas – and linking it with the hinterland
• Green ports: managing energy, resource flows and environmental impact 
• Smart ports: making activity digital and cybersecure 
• Port logistics