In its 2022 annual review, the Port of Rotterdam Authority announced a total throughput of 467.4 million tonnes, a slight decrease of 0.3% compared to the record-breaking 2021 figures. This marginal decline was primarily driven by a significant 9.6% drop in container throughput, measured in twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), which fell to 14.4 million TEUs.
Factors contributing to the container volume reduction included the ongoing geopolitical instability, particularly the war in Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, which impacted transshipment to and from Russia. Additionally, persistent global supply chain disruptions, high energy prices, and increasing inflation led to a slowdown in European industrial production and consumer demand.
Despite the reduction in container traffic, other cargo segments demonstrated resilience and growth. The throughput of LNG saw a substantial increase of 93.1%, driven by European demand for alternative gas sources. Coal throughput also rose significantly by 17.9% as countries diversified energy imports. Crude oil and oil product volumes remained relatively stable, underscoring the port's critical role in Europe's energy supply chain.
The Port Authority maintained a strong financial position, reporting robust revenue and profit for the year, allowing continued investment in infrastructure and the energy transition. This financial stability is crucial for ongoing projects aimed at future-proofing the port's operations and advancing its sustainability agenda.