Port of Rotterdam Reports 0.9% Cargo Throughput Growth in First Nine Months of 2026
The Port of Rotterdam recorded a 0.9% increase in total cargo throughput during the first nine months of 2026, reaching 323.2 million tonnes compared with the same period last year.
According to the Port of Rotterdam Authority, growth was primarily driven by higher volumes of coal, crude oil, mineral oil products, and other dry bulk cargo. However, several segments, including container tonnage, agricultural bulk, and breakbulk, experienced declines amid challenging European economic conditions and changing global trade patterns.
Dry and Liquid Bulk Drive Growth
Dry bulk throughput increased by 2.1%, supported by a 15.3% rise in coal volumes and a 15% increase in other dry bulk cargo. Growing demand for construction materials, energy infrastructure projects, and railway development contributed to this positive performance.
Liquid bulk throughput rose by 3.1%, with crude oil volumes increasing by 2.1% and mineral oil products growing by 11.1%. Shifting energy supply chains and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East influenced European import and refining activities.
Container Traffic Remains Stable
Container throughput remained nearly unchanged in TEU terms, recording a slight increase of 0.1%, while container tonnage declined by 2.2%.
Despite this, cargo flows to and from the European hinterland strengthened considerably, with volumes rising by 7.2%. Imports of loaded containers increased by 8.9%, reflecting continued demand across European markets.
Meanwhile, transshipment volumes declined by 20%, partly due to capacity limitations at Rotterdam's deep-sea terminals and the redistribution of cargo flows to other European ports.
Infrastructure and Supply Chain Resilience
The Port of Rotterdam Authority emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable connections between the port and European inland markets.
Low water levels on European rivers, changing energy flows, and ongoing pressure on European manufacturing continue to influence logistics operations.
Looking ahead, Rotterdam remains focused on strengthening road, rail, and inland waterway infrastructure to support efficient cargo transportation, improve supply chain resilience, and maintain its position as a major European logistics gateway.
Image source: portofrotterdam.com
