The Port of Gothenburg handled 234,000 TEUs in the first quarter of 2026, a 3% decline compared to the same period last year.
The reduction is attributable entirely to a fall in empty container movements, while the volume of loaded containers increased, reflecting improved logistics efficiency and a strengthening import base.
The port’s import-export balance has now approached a 50-50 split, reducing the structural need for empty container repositioning.
Container performance was uneven across the quarter, with March recording year-on-year growth while weaker volumes in January and February drove the overall quarterly decline. Rail’s share of container transport to and from the port continued to increase during the period.
Car handling was a standout performer, with 71,000 vehicles processed, a 15% increase on the first quarter of 2025. Part of this growth reflected the transshipment of vehicles diverted from other ports experiencing capacity constraints.
Intra-European RoRo traffic declined 2%, partly due to planned vessel maintenance that temporarily reduced available capacity on Northern and Central European routes.
Energy product volumes rose 19% , driven by strong refinery demand during the quarter. The comparison period was also relatively weak due to maintenance shutdowns in early 2025, amplifying the reported growth rate.
The port noted that its energy throughput is not materially exposed to the Strait of Hormuz blockade, as the products handled in Gothenburg originate predominantly from the North Sea and North America.
Dry bulk volumes increased 29% following several quarters of softer performance, with forest products continuing to drive the segment.
The cruise season began unusually early, with five calls recorded in the first quarter, and the port has cruise calls scheduled across every month of 2026.
Combined cruise and ferry passenger numbers grew 8% year-on-year.
