Stable development despite global disruptions

The Port of Helsingborg enters the final months of the year with steady volumes and results that clearly demonstrate the organisation’s ability to navigate a period marked by uncertainty. In recent months, disruptions in European shipping have affected large parts of the industry, with strikes in several major hub ports and irregular vessel calls as a result.

Despite challenging conditions on the continent, container volumes by sea remain above last year’s levels for the period January–October, and the Port has maintained a strong, reliable level of service throughout the autumn.

A year shaped by shifting conditions

The first half of the year showed solid growth and good momentum in container volumes. As autumn progressed, strikes in several European ports created significant operational challenges across the industry. Cancelled calls, altered schedules and irregular flows required rapid adjustments in production planning.

For the Port of Helsingborg, this has meant an intense period of coordination. Operational teams have needed to reallocate resources at short notice, with weeks of heavy volume alternating with periods of reduced arrivals.

“During periods with cancelled or delayed calls, we have focused on maintaining predictable and high-quality operations. We have upheld a strong service level and safeguarded essential flows for our customers,” says Bart Steijaert, CEO of the Port of Helsingborg.

Despite the disturbances, total container volumes remain above last year’s levels, and the overall trend for 2025 is steadily positive.

Strong momentum at the grain terminal

One area that stands out this year is grain. Lantmännen at the Grain Terminal has handled exceptionally high bulk volumes thanks to favourable, high-quality harvests. This has resulted in a clear increase in both volume and vessel calls on the bulk side.

The terminal’s ability to receive Panamax vessels with a loading capacity of up to 60,000 tonnes remains an important competitive advantage for Swedish grain exports.

Ferry traffic remains strong, supported by continued electrification

The ferry connection between Helsingborg and Elsinore remains one of Sweden’s most frequent and important transport corridors. Passenger volumes have increased during the year, and Oresundslinjen’s investment in electrification continues to strengthen the route, with a third fully electric ferry now in service, making it one of the most advanced short-sea ferry operations in the world.

Ferry traffic continues to operate at very high levels and plays a central role in commuting, tourism and regional logistics.

Rail shuttles continue to drive growth in intermodal transport

Rail volumes through the Combi Terminal have increased sharply in 2025, by more than 90 percent compared with the same period last year. The increase is driven by strong demand for reliable and sustainable inland transport, and several rail shuttles have seen robust utilisation throughout the year.

“We have seen a clear increase in our rail transports. The fact that more customers choose rail for inland transport shows strong demand for more climate-friendly alternatives,” says Bart Steijaert.

A year that required structure, quality and reliability

This year’s financial performance clearly highlights the importance of structured working methods and stable, reliable operations — especially when global conditions change rapidly. The Port’s internal development work, investments in digitalisation, and continuous improvements in planning and processes are increasingly reflected in day-to-day operations.

Ongoing dialogue with shipping lines, operators, haulage companies and other customers remains an important part of the Port’s work. Feedback on service, communication and planning quality has contributed to several improvements implemented during the year.

Stable operations, long-term development and continued investments

Throughout the year, the Port of Helsingborg has continued to modernise its infrastructure and prepare for the future container terminal to the south. Work to expand charging infrastructure, electrify equipment and advance other sustainability-related investments has taken further steps forward. Planning for the new customs building, scheduled for completion in 2026, is also progressing and will form an important hub for both security and flow optimisation.

As winter approaches, global logistics flows remain uncertain. The focus, therefore, remains on maintaining stable operations, continually developing working methods and strengthening the organisation’s long-term capacity and resilience.

“We must always be prepared for changes in our operating environment. The most important thing is that we stand firm and deliver reliable, high-quality operations. Our ambition is to remain a first choice for our customers — when we succeed with that, the volumes will follow,” says Bart Steijaert.

Key figures January–October 2025