The port of Gothenburg has begun the process of transferring three of its terminals to the private sector.

On 1 February, the three terminals began operating independently in preparation for privatisation, but the port was unable to say when the process would be complete.

The new operators will purchase rights to use quays and terminals at the port while the port authority will continue to own the land and infrastructure, thus retaining control of the port's future development.

Sven Hulterström, chairman of Port of Gothenburg, said: "It is a milestone in the history of the port of Gothenburg and marks the start of a new era for the largest port in the Nordic region.

"The task of establishing the new structure has gone extremely well and we have noted considerable interest from operators throughout the world."

He added: "It is vital that we enter into concession agreements with the right operators, and this process could take time."