In 2025, the Port of Hamburg demonstrated positive growth, handling 114.6 million tonnes of cargo, an increase of 2.6% compared to the previous year. The container segment was the main driver of growth: transhipment volume reached 8.3 million TEUs, an increase of 7.3%, with each quarter exceeding 2024 results. In terms of tonnage, container traffic increased by 4.6%, confirming the robust demand for port services.
Growth was primarily driven by traffic with China, India, and Southeast Asian countries, including a sharp increase with Malaysia and a nearly 50% increase in container traffic with India. Intra-Northern European trade, which is important for transhipment, also showed positive growth. Meanwhile, container traffic with the US decreased by 25.6% due to tariff policy. The bulk cargo segment declined to 32.4 million tonnes (-1.7%): grain volumes fell sharply due to lower exports, while fertilizer and ore handling declined, while construction materials, chemical products, and other dry bulk cargo increased.
The Hamburg Port Authority noted that the steady growth in container traffic confirms the competitiveness of Germany’s largest seaport and the strong demand for international trade. According to Port of Hamburg Marketing, increased economic ties with India following the conclusion of trade agreements with the EU are providing additional impetus to development. The port authority continues to implement digital and infrastructure solutions to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of port operations.