Amid a global geopolitical landscape marked by the Red Sea crisis and economic instability affecting key nations such as Germany, the Port of Trieste has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Preliminary 2024 data released by the Eastern Adriatic Port Authority, covering the first eleven months, outline a scenario that not only holds steady but shows significant growth in certain sectors. With 54.4 million tonnes of cargo handled—a 6.42% year-on-year increase—the port asserts its strategic importance within the logistics systems of the Mediterranean and Central Europe.
The liquid bulk sector, driven primarily by energy-related cargo, remains the primary engine of growth, with 37.6 million tonnes handled, a 9.74% rise. This robust performance has not only offset challenges in other segments but also contributed to the port's overall stability.
In the container sector, despite a slight overall decline (-1.12% in terms of TEUs handled), the number of full TEUs increased by 3.75%, signalling enhanced efficiency and added value for transported goods. Transhipment activity also displayed dynamism, growing by 5.88%, further underscoring the port’s ability to adapt to evolving international logistics demands.
The ro-ro segment presented a mixed picture. While the number of transiting units fell by 1.79%, the frequency of maritime highway services increased by 7.22% due to the introduction of new routes. A significant setback was observed in the solid bulk sector, which saw a sharp contraction (-72.64%), primarily attributed to the crisis in Trieste's steel industry. Nonetheless, the growth in the grain subcategory (+5.69%) offers an opportunity for the agri-food sector, which continues to invest in the port's potential.
Rail freight movement at the Port of Trieste experienced a decline (-12.47%), impacted by construction projects and slowdowns on international lines. However, positive developments were evident at strategic hubs like the Cervignano Interport, which reported a 19.96% increase, highlighting the effectiveness of the intermodal system in tackling logistical challenges.
The Port of Monfalcone, more exposed to geopolitical fluctuations and the automotive sector crisis, reported an 8.23% decrease in total volumes. However, November data signalled a strong rebound, with a 40.24% rise compared to the same month in 2023. Notable growth in the grain (+59.08%) and chemical product (+34.45%) subcategories partially offset difficulties in other areas.
Vittorio Torbianelli, extraordinary commissioner of the Eastern Adriatic Port Authority, described the year as "overall positive, especially considering the challenging context. The new ro-ro services and increased working days are promising indicators for the port’s future." Torbianelli also emphasised the vital contribution of port workers, whose daily efforts made these results possible.
