Port of Rotterdam posts ‘resilient’ first-half results amid geopolitical troubles

Total throughput at the port of Rotterdam rose by 0.4% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This brought total throughput to 212.0 million tonnes.

The dry bulk segment rose by 1.7%. The throughput of liquid bulk also increased by 2.4%. There was a dip in throughput in the container and breakbulk segments. Container throughput fell by 0.1% in TEUs or 2.6% in tonnes. Breakbulk fell by 1.1%.

The Port of Rotterdam says that although  it continued to operate ‘resiliently’ due to its scale, infrastructure and diversity of freight flows, the developments demonstrated the importance of investments in energy security, sustainable alternatives and the flexibility of supply chains.

Financially, the first half of the year was stable with a net result of 144.8 million euros. The Port of Rotterdam Authority's investments totalled 126.0 million euros in the first six months.

Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, said: “The war in the Persian Gulf has drastic humanitarian consequences for people in the region. In addition, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz makes it clear how closely connected global trade and energy flows are. Although direct impact on the operations and throughput in the port of Rotterdam has so far been limited, the higher energy prices and increasing uncertainty has rocked the international market.

“The events highlight the importance of robust supply chains and a strong European energy infrastructure. The port of Rotterdam has proved itself to be resilient and reliable in the face of challenging circumstances. That's not only crucial for the position of the port but also for the resilience of the Netherlands and Europe.”