In 2024, the port of Rotterdam’s cargo throughput decreased by 0.7%, amounting to 435.8 million tonnes, compared to 438.8 million tonnes the year before. The main reason for the decrease was the reduction in coal and crude oil transshipment. At the same time, the container segment showed growth: 13.8 million TEU were handled, which is 2.8% more than in 2023. The volume of iron ore, scrap, oil products and other types of dry cargo also increased.
The port authority ended the financial year with strong results, which allowed it to invest in infrastructure modernization. Construction of the Porthos project for the transport and storage of CO2 has begun, and the development of digital port security is ongoing. Integration of the port with the city remains an important task: initiatives to improve the urban environment are being implemented within the framework of the Environment Fund, and the construction of the Portlantis Port Experience Center has been completed.
Important steps have been taken in the field of energy transition. In 2024, the construction of a compressor station for the Porthos project began, as well as the laying of a hydrogen pipeline through the port. New agreements with the Maasvlakte container terminals will ensure increased use of shore power. Important decisions have been made on the development of hydrogen and CO2 pipelines: their launch is now scheduled for 2031–2033.
Digital security remains a priority. In 2024, Dutch ports, including Rotterdam, joined forces to strengthen their cyber resilience. The Secure Chain project introduced a digital container identification system to prevent their illegal removal from terminals. All major shipping lines have already joined the system, and in 2025, the shipping regions of Asia and Oceania will also join.
The port’s financial results remain stable. Investments increased by 11%, reaching €320.6 million, revenues by 4.8%, to €882 million. The main investments are aimed at developing terminals, building pipelines and digitalization. In the context of geopolitical instability and economic challenges, the port administration calls on the EU and the Dutch government to strengthen support for the industrial sector and ensure the competitiveness of European logistics.