Impressive First Quarter of 2025 at the Port of Gdynia

The year 2025 began with a clear upswing for the Port of Gdynia in a key cargo group. In the first quarter, general cargo handling rose by 16.6% year-on-year, while containers (in TEU) increased by 26.5%. March alone saw even stronger growth: 21.2% and 39.5% respectively, compared to March 2024. The total cargo tonnage reached 6.31 million tonnes, down 2.6% year-on-year – mainly due to lower volumes of coal and grain, which are returning to pre-boom trends following extraordinary growth over the past two years.

General cargo remains the largest cargo group – 4.28 million tonnes in the first quarter represents not only the highest share but also growth across all its segments. Ferry and ro-ro traffic increased by 8.07% in Q1 and by nearly 16% in March year-on-year.

Containers also recorded a record-breaking start to the year. A total of 278,432 TEU handled in the first quarter marks an increase of over one-fourth compared to the previous year. The tonnage of containerized cargo also rose by 22.5%. In March alone, container throughput surged by 39.5% year-on-year. This outstanding result stems in part from the development of new shipping services – including the launch of Lakeway Link (2024), MSC (Britannia service in 2025), and Gemini Cooperation (2025). It is worth noting that this growth occurred despite ongoing infrastructure works – March marked the completion of the first phase of modernization at several facilities, including the Helskie Quay.

In the grain segment, handling volumes dropped by 33.7%, while coal and coke fell by 32.4%. These raw materials had been heavily handled at the port between 2022 and 2024 due to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in supply chains. Their volumes are now returning to pre-war trends. A decline was also recorded in the group of crude oil and petroleum products – down by 15%.

We are seeing a structural shift: fewer bulk cargos, more general cargo, including containers – that is, cargos requiring greater precision and higher-quality infrastructure. This confirms that the direction we have taken responds to real market needs
- said Adam Hoppe, Director of the Strategy and Market Analysis Office.

The increases in general cargo and container handling are not only a result of changes in global supply chains but also a sign of growing trust in the Port of Gdynia as an efficient transport hub capable of handling high-value, time-sensitive cargo. New connections, the development of services, infrastructure investments, and operational readiness – all contribute to a tangible competitive advantage.

The Port of Gdynia is building its position as both a universal and specialist port. One that can respond flexibly to market changes, offering partners predictability, efficiency, and high service quality. The growth recorded in the first quarter of 2025 signals that the market recognizes these advantages and is increasingly choosing Gdynia as its port of destination.

Source: Port of Gdynia Authority S.A.