In 2023, the Port of Gothenburg handled a record 685,000 containers (TEU) during the first three quarters, 8,000 more than the same period last year.
Although the number of containers handled at the Port of Gothenburg has slightly decreased during the third quarter of this year, the port is still on track for a record year. Compared to 2023 – which was the port’s best year ever in terms of container handling – there is still a 1% increase during the first three quarters of this year.
The handling of laden containers continued to increase by 5% during the period. However, the handling of empty containers decreased significantly, which had a noticeable impact on the total numbers.
Moving empty containers between ports – known as Empty Container Repositioning (ECR) – is a way for shipping companies to ensure access to containers for loading in ports where they are needed at the time being. Generally, the need for ECR increases in ports where imports and exports are imbalanced.
In 2023, container imports at the Port of Gothenburg decreased by almost 20%, while exports continued to rise, creating an imbalance. Now, imports are increasing significantly more than exports, which is having a re-balancing effect.
The ECR reduction at the Port of Gothenburg is a result of the improved balance between imports and exports. We are now on track to return to the near 50-50 ratio that is typical here in Gothenburg, but is quite unique compared to other ports both in Sweden and internationally,
… said Claes Sundmark, Vice President of Sales at the Port of Gothenburg.
The number of containers transported to and from the port by rail increased by 7% during the first three quarters of the year. This growth is mainly driven by import-heavy hinterland rail destinations like Falköping and Nässjö, as well as new rail shuttles to and from destinations in northern Sweden. The volume of forest products transported by rail for export via the Port of Gothenburg has also seen a significant increase during the period.
To remind, the Port of Gothenburg will provide onshore power to container ships calling at the ports by 2030.
RoRo and cars
During the first nine months, the total RoRo volume decreased by 4% to 389,000 units. However, volumes to non-European countries increased slightly. During the period, 188,000 cars were handled, a 2% decrease. Exports are increasing, while imports of new cars are declining.
Energy products, cruise, and bulk
The handling of energy products at the port increased by 17% compared to the same period last year. Last year, volumes were relatively low due to planned maintenance stops as well as investments in increased capacity for biofuel production.
The Port of Gothenburg received 53 cruise ship calls from January through September, 20 fewer than during the same period last year. The decrease is due to planned work at one of the port’s cruise terminals.
During the period, 378,000 tons of dry bulk were handled, which is a 16% increase. Handling of products like pulp, granules, and gravel contributed to the growth.
