Port of Rotterdam Cargo Volumes Edge Higher in First Half

The Port of Rotterdam handled 212 million tonnes of cargo during the first six months of 2026, representing a 0.4% increase compared to the same period last year, as gains in liquid and dry bulk cargo offset weaker container and breakbulk volumes.

Energy-related cargo was the main contributor to the growth. Liquid bulk throughput increased by 2.4%, driven by a 4.7% rise in oil and refined petroleum products. The port said uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz contributed to stronger oil movements during the period. Dry bulk volumes also posted growth, rising 1.7%.

Container traffic remained largely stable, with throughput measured in TEUs slipping by just 0.1%. However, the total weight of containerized cargo declined by 2.6%, while breakbulk volumes fell 1.1%.

According to the port authority, the results reflect a market influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Strong energy cargo volumes helped compensate for softer performance in the container and general cargo sectors, allowing total throughput to finish slightly above last year’s level.

The port also reported solid financial results. Revenue increased by 3.2%, while earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) rose 1.3% to €298.8 million ($340 million). Net profit also improved, climbing 0.9% to €144.8 million ($165 million).

Capital investment during the first half of the year totaled €126 million ($143.5 million), down 7% year-on-year. Despite the decrease, the Port of Rotterdam Authority said it remains committed to investing in resilience, security and energy infrastructure.

One of the key milestones achieved during the period was the completion of the first 32-kilometer section of the Netherlands’ national hydrogen network, linking Maasvlakte with industrial users in Pernis.

The port also reached another milestone in May by carrying out its first ethanol bunkering operation for an oceangoing vessel using an ethanol-methanol fuel blend. The development forms part of Rotterdam’s wider strategy to strengthen its position as a hub for alternative marine fuels.