The Port of Hamburg has reported steady container handling in the first half of 2024, with 3.8 million TEU processed, showing little change compared to the same period last year. The port experienced stable trends in both transshipment and continental traffic. However, a decline in coal volumes has affected bulk cargo throughput, while there has been growth in container ship calls and rail transport in seaport hinterland traffic.
Container Handling and Bulk Cargo Trends
In the first half of 2024, the Port of Hamburg handled 3.8 million TEU, a decrease of just 0.3% compared to the same period in 2023. Loaded container volumes increased slightly by 0.5%, reaching 3.4 million TEU. Meanwhile, the handling of conventional general cargo rose by 4.3% to 585,000 tons, with overall general cargo throughput remaining stable at 39.2 million tons.
The total seaborne cargo throughput for the first six months of 2024 stood at 55.9 million tons, a decline of 3.9% year-on-year. A noticeable trend in the bulk cargo sector is the decline in coal handling, which dropped by 11.8% as part of a broader shift towards decarbonization. This has contributed to a 12.1% decrease in bulk cargo throughput, which totaled 16.7 million tons.
Key Trading Partners and Market Movements
The Port of Hamburg saw varying trends with its top trading partners in the first half of 2024. Malaysia’s cargo volume grew by 14.7%, reaching 88,000 TEU, placing it in the tenth spot among Hamburg’s trading partners. U.S. trade also saw an increase, with 341,000 TEU handled, marking a 9.0% rise. China remained Hamburg’s largest trading partner, with a slight decrease of 2.2% to 1.1 million TEU. Turkey showed notable growth, with a 26.7% increase, rising six positions in the ranking to reach twelfth place.
Vessel Calls and Shifting Trends
The number of container ships calling at the Port of Hamburg increased by nearly 1% in the first half of 2024, driven mainly by medium-sized and smaller vessels. Large container ships with capacities over 10,000 TEU saw a decline in calls. This shift reflects the ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea region caused by Houthi rebel activity, which has led shipping companies to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope. As a result, additional liner services have been introduced at the port.
Sustainability Efforts and Rail Transport Growth
The Port of Hamburg has made strides in promoting sustainable transport solutions. The adoption of shore power has expanded to container vessels, in addition to cruise and inland waterway ships, helping reduce emissions from port operations. The port also reported an increase in rail transport, which now accounts for 50.8% of hinterland traffic, with 1.3 million TEU handled, reflecting a 3.1% growth. This shift to rail transport is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of logistics operations, despite challenges such as line closures and construction work.
Hamburg continues to prioritize sustainability and efficiency as key elements of its growth strategy. The port is expected to maintain its position as a major European logistics hub while navigating the challenges posed by changing global trade dynamics and sustainability goals.
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