Thessaloniki is set to become a new global logistics hub for humanitarian aid as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) establishes a Supply Chain Centre (SCC) at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) grounds, making the city a strategic point for relief operations.
The new facility will serve as a base for collecting, storing, and managing humanitarian supplies destined for dozens of countries. Construction work to adapt the premises is already underway. Once operational, the centre is expected to strengthen collaboration between the UN-affiliated organisation, the Greek government, and the private sector.
The project was presented during an online meeting between IOM supply chain director Lado Gvilava and representatives of the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry, followed by a webinar outlining procurement procedures and opportunities for Greek businesses. Currently, Greece ranks only 68th among IOM suppliers globally, with a share of just 0.3% of the organisation's procurement.
The new centre aims to boost participation by companies from Thessaloniki and northern Greece. "Our goal is very simple. To build meaningful, efficient, and long-term cooperation with the business community of Thessaloniki and Greece in general," Gvilava said. IOM representatives noted that the centre could generate substantial benefits for the local economy through procurement partnerships and supply contracts.
According to IOM officials, Thessaloniki was chosen for four main reasons. The first is its geographic position as a historic commercial crossroads connecting Greece, the Balkans, and the rest of Europe, and its proximity to regions frequently affected by humanitarian crises, including Syria, Iraq, and North Africa. Other factors include the organisation's longstanding presence in Greece, the city's universities, which can supply highly specialised staff, and the country's political and economic stability.
Founded in 1951, the International Organization for Migration operates in 170 countries and is one of the most important UN system bodies in humanitarian aid logistics, migration management, and global relief operations.
During the webinar, businesses were encouraged to register on the IOM's electronic procurement system. Once registered, company profiles become visible to all IOM offices worldwide, significantly expanding opportunities to participate in international tenders and humanitarian supply projects.
