The Simplified Logistics Zones (ZLS) of the ports and hinterlands of Genoa and La Spezia are crossing the Apennines to include some Emilia municipalities. This is outlined in the agreement signed by the regions of Liguria and Emilia Romagna in May 2024. For Genoa, the ZLS will include the municipalities of Piacenza and Casalgrande, while for La Spezia, it will cover Parma, Noceto, Medesano, Fidenza, and Fontevivo.
In practical terms, this means that the two Ligurian ports will expand the area considered as their hinterland, while the Emilia municipalities will benefit from the incentives provided in the regional Strategic Development Plans. These Emilia areas already serve as hubs for the Northwest. Currently, 26% of the containers handled by the port of La Spezia and 9% of those handled by Genoa are destined for Emilia-Romagna.