The Port of Rotterdam reported a decline by 0.7% in 2024 in throughput and called for investment in the Dutch and European industry.
According to the port, total throughput amounted to 435.8 million tonnes, compared to 438.8 million tonnes in the same period last year. The decline in throughput is mainly due to lower coal and crude oil throughput. However, growth was recorded in the container segment.
Driven by increasing consumer spending, throughput grew by 2.8% to 13.8 million TEU. Throughput in the iron ore & scrap, mineral oil products, and other dry bulk segments also increased. The Port Authority had a strong financial year that enables the Port Authority to make significant investments in port infrastructure.
For example, construction has started on the CO2 transport and storage project Porthos, and the Port Authority has invested in enhancing the digital resilience of the port of Rotterdam by setting up a national cybersecurity platform and further rolling out the Secure Chain.
Last year, we found ourselves as a stable port in turbulent international waters. Geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts impacted the global economy, leading to market uncertainty. Economic growth in Europe lagged behind other regions, which is reflected in throughput and business investments in the port of Rotterdam.
…said Boudewijn Siemons, CEO, Port of Rotterdam Authority.
Call to invest in the competitiveness of European and Dutch industry
Current global tensions have led to uncertain market conditions, increased cyberattacks, and disruptions in the supply chain for the port and industrial complex. Locally, there are also challenges related to organised crime, nitrogen regulations, grid congestion and employment. The port states that it continues to adapt to circumstances to maintain its competitive position and continues delivering economic and social value to the Netherlands and Europe.
In addition, predictable and competitive market conditions for investments in industrial sustainability are crucial for a successful transition to a climate-neutral port, Europe’s strategic autonomy, and securing Europe’s supply chains.
In the run-up to the publication of the Clean Industrial Deal and the Spring Budget, the Port Authority, together with international partners, is calling on the European Commission and the Dutch government to strengthen the competitiveness of European and Dutch industry and to remove barriers.
In January the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and the Port of Rotterdam in a joint statement called on the European Commission to take an approach that focuses on strengthening international chains and industrial clusters, rather than specific sectors or regions.
