Hamburg Port Reports Decline in Cargo Throughput Despite Modest Container Growth
The port faced a 2.1% drop in total cargo volume in 2024, attributed to geopolitical tensions and economic challenges, while container handling showed slight resilience.
- The Hamburg Port processed 111.8 million tons of cargo in 2024, a 2.1% decrease compared to the previous year.
- Geopolitical instability, including conflicts in the Middle East, and a weakening German economy were cited as major factors impacting port activity.
- Container throughput grew by 0.9%, with increased trade volumes recorded with China, the USA, and India, highlighting the port's reliability in a challenging market.
- A sharp decline in fossil fuel shipments, including a 21.7% drop in mineral oil products, contributed significantly to the overall downturn in cargo volumes.
- The Hamburg Port continues to face stiff competition from larger North Sea ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp, which performed better in 2024.
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