Strong start to 2026 for the Port of Helsingborg

Container volumes continue to grow and total cargo throughput increased during the first months of the year. Ferry traffic also shows clear growth, despite continued uncertainty in global transport flows.

The Port of Helsingborg has entered 2026 with stable operations in a global environment characterised by shifting trade patterns, rising fuel costs and geopolitical uncertainty.

Despite this, the port continues to deliver with a strong focus on secure and efficient flows, high operational quality and reliability for both customers and society.

“Our role is to create stability in the flow of goods, even when conditions change. It is about delivering quality and reliability at every step,” says Bart Steijaert, CEO of the Port of Helsingborg.

Continued growth in container volumes

Container operations, a core part of the port’s activities, continue to develop positively. Between January and April, 92,000 TEU were handled, representing an increase compared with the same period last year.

This development is supported by ongoing efforts to refine working methods and ensure efficient handling, with the ambition of delivering each call with high precision and consistency.

“We continue to develop our ways of working to deliver more secure cargo flows with maintained efficiency. This is essential for our customers,” says Bart Steijaert.

Strong growth in ferry traffic

Ferry traffic recorded clear growth in the first part of the year. The number of trucks increased by just over seven per cent compared with the same period last year, indicating continued strong activity in a key transport segment.

Passenger volumes remained stable.

Total cargo throughput reached 2.6 million tonnes during the first four months of the year, an increase of more than six per cent compared with the previous year.

Cold weather and higher fuel costs also contributed to increased activity in bulk and truck-related segments.

Overall, the figures confirm the port’s role as a central logistics hub in the region, even as external conditions evolve.

Strengthened security and collaboration

Security and reliability have remained key priorities. Work on the new customs facility is progressing, and a decision has been made to install Sweden’s first permanent cargo scanner in the Port of Helsingborg.

Together, these initiatives strengthen control capabilities and contribute to more secure flows through the port area, while aiming to minimise disruption for customers.

Focus on both current operations and future development

Development is progressing on two fronts. While ongoing efforts focus on optimising current terminal operations, preparations continue for the port’s long-term development.

During the year, a project organisation is being established to drive the environmental permitting process for the future container terminal.

A stable start with clear direction ahead

The first months of the year show a port delivering both stability and positive development. Container volumes are increasing, total cargo throughput is up by more than six per cent and ferry traffic is showing strong growth.

This provides a solid foundation for the remainder of the year, with continued focus on secure cargo flows, efficient operations and close collaboration with customers and partners.

Volumes, T1 2026 (thousands)

* One TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) corresponds to the volume of one 20 foot container.