Warsaw Wholesale Market

complete

The project consists of the construction and operation of a new wholesale market in the vicinity of Warsaw (Ozarow - Mazowiecki) to provide a modern infrastructure for trade in horticultural and food produce. The objective is to provide a competitive outlet for private suppliers of agricultural products and to improve the handling and grading of fresh produce in accordance with international standards. The proceeds of the EBRD loan will finance construction and technical assistance. The project is part of a series of similar food distribution infrastructure operations financed by the EBRD in various countries. The project will: (i) foster the development of the private sector in the agricultural sector; (ii) promote trade efficiency and increase competition through a transparent market; (iii) improve standards and enhance competitiveness of Polish farm products on domestic and export markets; and (iv) contribute to Poland's integration in the European Union. Warszawski Rolno-Spozywczy Rynek Hurtowy S.A. (Warsaw Agricultural Wholesale Market Company) was set up as a joint-stock company in July 1995 with the support of Poland's Ministry of Agriculture and Food to establish and operate a modern demand-driven wholesale market infrastructure for fresh produce. Its major shareholders are state agencies, local authorities and private market operators. A loan of US$ 15.05 million (ECU 11.85 million equivalent). It is envisaged that local banks will provide parallel financing to the Company. Estimated at US$ 38.4 million (ECU 30.2 million equivalent). The project was screened as B/0, requiring an Environmental Analysis of the projected activities. The Analysis was based on the Environmental Impact Assessment, prepared by Polish consultants, which addressed Polish requirements for permitting the project. The Analysis showed that the facilities will be designed to achieve international standards for food markets. The plans for the design and construction of the facility include measures to ensure the minimisation of impact on the environment as well as regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the Company will be preparing an Environmental Action Plan (EAP) satisfactory to the Bank which would enforce the adequate mitigation of all issues identified as well as compliance with applicable Polish and EU standards for the environment and health and safety. The EAP will include provisions for adequate drainage and waste-water treatment systems, solid waste management, chemicals storage and noise abatement measures. International conventions for the protection of the ozone layer will be fully respected in the planning of cold-storage facilities. The Bank will monitor, through annual reporting, compliance with applicable Polish and EU standards and implementation of the EAP. None.