The Port of Bilbao handled 17.3 million tonnes of cargo during the first half of 2026, marking its strongest year-on-year growth at the start of a year since 2004. Total traffic reached 17.32 million tonnes, up 12.3% compared with the same period last year. The increase was driven mainly by liquid bulk cargo, including crude oil and natural gas, as well as higher container volumes. Although severe storms affected operations in January and early February, cargo volumes recovered strongly. From February to June, the port recorded its highest traffic levels for the period in the past 18 years. Imports and exports continue to grow Imports increased 14%, while exports rose 9%. The port also maintained a balanced traffic profile. Short-sea shipping accounted for 51% of total cargo, while deep-sea services represented 49%. According to the Port Authority, geopolitical tensions and tariff uncertainty have not yet had a significant impact on cargo volumes. Revenue and investment increase The Bilbao Port Authority reported revenue of €39.8 million during the first half of 2026, an increase of 6.4% from €37.4 million a year earlier. The Authority reported €85 million in cash reserves and €69 million in bank debt. Planned investment for 2026 totals €87.1 million. By the end of June, 48% of the programme had already been executed. The Authority plans to invest €308.8 million between 2026 and 2030. Energy transition advances The first phase of the port’s dock electrification project has been completed. The project is expected to reduce both CO₂ emissions and noise from vessels alongside. The Port Authority said future investment will continue to focus on the energy transition, infrastructure, intermodal transport, digitalisation, innovation and port-city integration. Passenger traffic also increased during the first half of the year, rising 13%, while the port completed the deployment of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES). The post Port of Bilbao posts strongest first-half grow