What is the function of the Port Authority? What kind of entity is a Port Authority?

The port authority is a type of Spanish public body attached to the Ministry of Development.

The objectives of the port authorities are among others:

• The provision of general port services and the authorisation and control of basic port services.
• Management of the port service area and port uses.
• Planning, design, construction, conservation and operation of port works and services and maritime signals.
• Management of the port public domain and maritime signals.
• Economic management of the port's heritage and resources.
• Promotion of industrial and commercial activities related to maritime or port traffic.
• Coordination of the operations of the different modes of transport in the port space.