Steady volume growth and stronger performance at the Port of Helsingborg

Container volumes at the Port of Helsingborg continue to rise. After a year marked by recovery, 2025 so far shows steady growth in container handling. At the same time, ongoing work on efficiency improvements, sustainability investments and long-term capacity planning continues to deliver results.

The development during the first two tertials of the year shows continued and clear growth in the Port’s container operations. Container volumes have increased by around 10 percent compared to the same period last year – a development reflecting both more efficient handling and improved flows within the container terminal.

“The positive development in container volumes is encouraging and the result of focused work throughout the organisation. At the same time, it’s essential to remember that we operate in a rapidly changing world, where trade tariffs and economic uncertainty can significantly impact logistics flows. That’s why we continue to focus on productivity and long-term investments,” says Bart Steijaert, CEO of the Port of Helsingborg.

Bulk operations have also strengthened their volumes, with an increase of more than 50 percent so far this year, primarily due to good grain harvests. Ferry traffic across the Sound remains stable in passenger numbers, while truck volumes have declined slightly due to the weak German economy and increased competition from the Øresund Bridge.

Rail shuttles drive growth in intermodal transport

At the Combi Terminal, rail volumes have more than doubled during 2025 compared with the same period last year. Behind the growth lies, among other things, the establishment of new rail shuttles that strengthen the connection between Helsingborg and key logistics hubs inland.

“We’re seeing a clear upswing in our rail transports. This development is important both from a sustainability and capacity perspective. The fact that more customers choose rail for inland transport shows that we’re moving in the right direction towards more sustainable logistics flows,” says Bart Steijaert.

Efficiency measures show results in the container terminal

The positive volume trend is also reflected in the Port’s financial performance. Efforts to strengthen the profitability of container operations through a multi-year action plan have yielded clear results, with a gradual improvement month by month since autumn 2024.

“We’re seeing stable progress in the container terminal, where better planning, digital tools and close cooperation between functions are producing tangible results. This is a long-term process built on both structure and engagement,” says Bart Steijaert.

Investments for the future

During the year, the Port of Helsingborg has continued to modernise its infrastructure and prepare for the future container terminal to the south. Several sustainability-related investments are also progressing, including the expansion of charging infrastructure and the planning of a new customs building scheduled for completion in 2026.

While this year’s development has been positive so far, the Port remains cautious about the months ahead. Events in global logistics flows and uncertain future prospects may affect volumes going forward. The focus therefore remains on maintaining stable operations, further developing working methods and strengthening organisational resilience for the years ahead.

Key figures January–August 2025