Throughput in the port of Rotterdam rose by 0.9% in the first nine months of the year

In the first nine months of 2026, total throughput in the port of Rotterdam increased by 0.9% compared to the same period in the previous year, reaching a total of 323.2 million tonnes. This growth was primarily driven by higher volumes of coal, other dry bulk, crude oil, and mineral oil products. However, there were declines in the throughput of iron ore, scrap, agribulk, LNG, other liquid bulk, containers, and breakbulk.

Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of Port of Rotterdam Authority, noted that the port's continual adaptation to changing circumstances, despite challenges such as low water levels, shifting energy flows, and pressure on European industry, has led to growth in major freight flows to and from the European hinterland. He emphasized the importance of strong hinterland connections for Europe's security of supply and competitiveness, and the need for continued investment in future-proof transportation networks.

Dry bulk throughput rose by 2.1% in the first nine months of 2026, with iron ore and scrap volumes falling by 5.9% each. Disruptions to supply chains and low water levels resulted in higher transport costs and limited raw material supplies, causing steel manufacturers to rely more on existing stocks and reducing scrap exports via Rotterdam.

Coal throughput increased by 15.3%, driven by a recovery in coking coal for European steel production and higher demand for thermal coal due to high gas prices from geopolitical tensions.

Agribulk throughput fell by 11.4%, as demand for imports decreased following stockpiling in 2025. Other dry bulk saw a 15% growth, driven by increased demand for construction materials. Liquid bulk throughput rose by 3.1%, with crude oil increasing by 2.1% due to the loss of imports from the Middle East following the Strait of Hormuz.

Oil product exports grew by 31.9%, while imports declined by 6.9%. LNG throughput remained stable, and other liquid bulk fell by 3.8%. The chemical industry continues to face challenges, with production declining in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

Container and breakbulk throughput remained relatively stable, with slight increases in containers (0.1%) and a decline in breakbulk (-1.4%). RoRo volumes grew by 0.7% due to weak economic performance in the United Kingdom, while breakbulk saw a decline of 10.2% due to stagnation in European manufacturing industries.