The Port of Gothenburg has moved 234,000 containers (TEU) during the first quarter of the year, which represents a decrease of 3% compared to the same period last year. This decline is mainly explained by the reduction in the handling of empty containers, while loaded containers have recorded an increase.
This evolution reflects an improvement in the efficiency of logistics flows. The rise in imports has allowed for a balance of nearly 50% between imports and exports, thus reducing the need to reposition empty containers.
The traffic performance has not been uniform throughout the quarter. While March showed year-on-year growth, the months of January and February recorded lower volumes, which has affected the overall result. Meanwhile, rail transport continues to gain weight in the port's operations.
In contrast to the drop in containers, vehicle traffic experienced a significant increase. A total of 71,000 cars passed through the facilities, representing a 15% increase compared to the first quarter of 2025. Part of this growth is due to the diversion of goods from other ports with capacity constraints.
On the other hand, intra-European Ro/Ro traffic decreased by 2%, partly affected by scheduled maintenance work on ships that temporarily reduced operational capacity.
The energy segment registered one of the largest increases. The port, considered Sweden's main energy hub, increased the volume of managed products by 19%, driven by strong demand in refineries. This surge is also facilitated by the low comparative base of the previous year, marked by technical stoppages.
Regarding other traffics, dry bulk cargo—including forestry products, sand, and gravel—grew by 29% after several quarters of weakness, with a particular focus on the forestry sector.
Finally, cruise activity started earlier than usual, with five port calls during the first quarter. The port anticipates monthly port calls throughout 2026, while the total number of passengers, combining cruises and ferries, increased by 8%.