The Port of Barcelona reported a robust performance in the first half of 2026, handling 35.87 million tonnes of cargo, marking a 3.5% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth was primarily fueled by significant upticks in container traffic, vehicle throughput, bulk cargo, and passenger movements.

Container throughput saw a 4.3% year-on-year rise, reaching 1.93 million TEUs. Import containers demonstrated particularly strong momentum, with a 6.7% increase to 380,000 TEUs. The port also experienced positive growth in liquid bulk (+4.1%), dry bulk (+5.1%), vehicle traffic (+6.5%), and ro-ro cargo (+2.8%).

Passenger traffic climbed by 4.1% to 2.44 million movements. Ferry passengers grew by 2.5%, while cruise passenger numbers increased by 3.4% to over one million visitors.

Àlex Garcia, General Manager of the Port of Barcelona, highlighted the port’s resilience amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainty. He specifically noted the port’s success in increasing liquid bulk volumes through diversified supply sources, effectively navigating disruptions related to tensions in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

Vehicle traffic reached 386,000 units, with imports showing a substantial increase of 36%. Notably, 45% of imported vehicles were hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric models. China emerged as the dominant source of imported vehicles, accounting for 50% of the total, solidifying Barcelona’s position as a key entry point for Asian automotive manufacturers into Southern Europe.

During the first half of the year, the port also made substantial progress on several major infrastructure projects. These include enhancements to road and rail access, the development of additional liquid bulk berths, electrification initiatives at the Adossat Wharf, and the ongoing construction of the Nou Llobregat terminal.

Port President José Alberto Carbonell announced that radioelectric compatibility studies conducted with ENAIRE have confirmed the feasibility of the planned expansion of the port’s southern area, ensuring its compatibility with both current and future operations of Barcelona-El Prat Airport. This crucial finding paves the way for future container terminal developments in the region.

The port’s commitment to sustainability was further underscored by continued investments. Contracts were awarded for its first hydrogen plant, and shore power (OPS) infrastructure for cruise terminals was expanded. Additionally, the port facilitated one of its initial bioethanol bunkering operations for a container ship.

In terms of innovation, construction commenced on BlueTechPort, a €60 million project designed to establish a leading European hub for the blue economy. The port also deepened its collaboration with the Port of Shanghai, focusing on digitalization, safety, sustainable shipping corridors, and alternative fuels.

The Port of Barcelona also confirmed that Cruise Terminal C will cease operations on October 30th, followed by the South Terminal on December 31st. This decision aligns with the port’s agreement with the Barcelona City Council to implement a more sustainable cruise model.

Port of Barcelona grows container traffic 4.3% in first half of 2026