Setback for Stockholm
Commenting on the results of 2023, the Ports of Stockholm stated that the ports “felt the effects of the recession." A total of 7.4 million of goods were handled, compared to 8.8 million t in the previous year (-16%). While goods volumes remained stable throughout the period of pandemic measures, they have decreased since 2022, also due to a lower demand for imported goods.
"This is especially true for the construction sector, as a significant proportion of the imports from the Baltic States and Poland comprises building materials," the ports said in a press release.
The outlook in the ro-ro segment is promising, however. "Our largest ro-ro customer continues to expand and invest in the port of Kapellskär and the Baltic Sea, which is very positive. Two new vessels were introduced on the Kapellskär–Naantali route, creating a significant increase in capacity,” said Magdalena Bosson, CEO Ports of Stockholm.
The first of the two brand new Finnlines vessels started operating on the Kapellskär–Naantali route in September 2023. The second vessel will enter service in February 2024. (cd)