Stable development at the Port of Helsingborg during the first eight months of the year

Container volumes continue to develop positively and total cargo throughput has increased compared with the same period last year. At the same time, the Port of Helsingborg continues to invest in security, digitalisation and future capacity.

The Port of Helsingborg has continued to deliver stable operations during the first eight months of 2026. Operations have been characterised by continued investment in technology and sustainability, as well as several strategic initiatives for future development.

“We are seeing stable development across the business and continued strong demand in several of our key segments. At the same time, we continue to invest in technology, security and future capacity to strengthen the port’s competitiveness over the long term,” 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 August, 184,000 TEU were handled by sea, compared with 180,000 TEU during the same period last year, representing an increase of just over two per cent.

Despite a challenging global environment, container operations delivered solid volumes while continuing efforts to improve efficiency, capacity utilisation and customer experience. During the year, electric reachstackers were also procured, with the first units scheduled for delivery in 2027.

Increased cargo throughput and continued strong ferry traffic

Total cargo throughput reached 5.4 million tonnes during the first eight months of the year, compared with 4.8 million tonnes during the same period in 2025.

Ferry traffic also continued to show positive development, with increased volumes of freight vehicles, passenger vehicles and passengers.

A cold winter, the record harvest of 2025, increased regional trade and high activity within oil storage operations all contributed to strong volumes across several segments.

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

Strengthened security and efficiency

Throughout the year, work has continued on several investments that strengthen the port’s role as critical infrastructure and a competitive logistics hub.

Construction of the new customs facility is progressing, and Sweden’s first permanent customs scanner is being established at the Port of Helsingborg. During the year, a decision was also made to introduce a Secure Container Release solution, enhancing the security of the container release process.

At the same time, investments in electrification, digitalisation and energy efficiency continue.

“Security, reliability and efficiency remain key priorities for us. The investments we make today strengthen both our operations and our customers’ cargo flows, while preparing the port for future requirements and opportunities,” says Bart Steijaert.

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, work on the environmental permit application for the future container terminal was initiated and preparations began for the public consultation process planned for autumn 2026.

Stable development with a clear direction ahead

Despite continued high fuel prices and uncertainty related to global trade flows, the Port of Helsingborg has continued a steady positive development and expects full-year cargo volumes to exceed 2025 levels.

Overall, the first eight months of the year demonstrate a port delivering stable operations, growing cargo throughput and a continued focus on developing secure, efficient and sustainable cargo flows for customers and society.

Volumes, January–August 2026 (thousands)

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