The Port of Hamburg, one of Europe’s largest and busiest ports, posted a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025. Against the backdrop of global economic fluctuations and shifting trade dynamics, the port recorded a notable year-on-year increase in both container volumes and overall cargo throughput. Its positive trend sets it apart from other major European ports such as Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges.
Surge in Container Throughput Driven by Asia and India
The Port of Hamburg handled 2 million TEUs in Q1 2025, marking a 6.3% year-on-year increase. This rise was largely fuelled by booming trade with Far East countries. Notably, trade with India grew by 39.6% (60,000 TEUs), supported by new liner services. Even more impressive was Malaysia, which posted a 50.6% increase (54,000 TEUs).
Trade with China, Hamburg’s largest partner, showed recovery with an 11.3% increase (597,000 TEUs). However, trade with the United States declined by 19%, attributed to policy effects from earlier U.S. administration changes.
Resilient Cargo Handling Despite Energy Transition Impact
The port’s total seaborne cargo throughput reached 28.3 million tonnes, up 3.1% year-on-year. Conventional general cargo rose by 3.5% to 280,000 tonnes, showing a stable performance.
However, bulk goods remained mostly flat at 8.1 million tonnes, with grabbable cargo down 5.8% and suction cargo down 14.3%, affected by reduced demand during the energy transition. Liquid cargo, on the other hand, performed strongly, growing by 23.6%. Coal and ores transported via rail also declined, recording -5.7% at 10.9 million tonnes.
Transshipment and Hinterland Traffic Provide Further Boost
Despite earlier geopolitical challenges, transshipment traffic increased by 15.3% to 723,000 TEUs, credited to new liner services and the realignment of shipping alliances. The hinterland traffic also grew steadily to 1.3 million TEUs (+1.8%), which positively impacted the rail sector. Railways moved 645,000 TEUs, showing a modest 0.7% increase. These developments underscore Hamburg’s strengthening role in both international and inland transport networks.
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Source: CONTAINER NEWS
