Slovenia’s Port of Koper handled 656,150 TEUs of containerised cargo in the first half of 2026, marking a 5% increase compared with the same period last year. The growth was driven mainly by stronger import volumes and increased cargo flows from the port’s Central and Eastern European hinterland.
The performance comes despite continued uncertainty in global trade and logistics markets. Geopolitical tensions around the Suez Canal, Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz have altered shipping patterns between Asia and Europe, creating both challenges and opportunities for Mediterranean and North Adriatic ports.
Koper has benefited from changing trade flows and its growing role as a gateway for Central European markets. The port said investments in manufacturing facilities in its hinterland, particularly those linked to the automotive and logistics sectors, have generated additional container volumes.
The port has also strengthened its connectivity with Asia. During the first half of 2026, Koper added a fourth regular container service to the Far East, expanding its existing network of three Far East services. The additional service is expected to further strengthen the port’s position as a gateway for Central and Eastern Europe.
The container increase contributed to stronger financial results for Luka Koper, the company operating the port. Group revenue reached €206.1 million in H1 2026, up 10% year on year, while EBIT increased 8% to €57.1 million. Net profit rose 11% to €48.1 million.
Luka Koper is also accelerating investment in port infrastructure. The company allocated €91.6 million to investments during the first half, 70% more than in the corresponding period of 2025. Projects include extending the northern section of Pier I, expanding vehicle-handling infrastructure, relocating storage blocks at the container terminal and completing a new warehouse for steel coils and Berth 12 at Pier II.
The expansion programme is aimed at increasing handling capacity and improving the port’s ability to respond to changing cargo flows. Koper’s extensive rail network is particularly important for its hinterland strategy, providing connections to markets across Slovenia and neighbouring Central European countries.
The port’s container growth is significant for the wider North Adriatic shipping market, where ports are competing to capture cargo destined for landlocked and industrial regions of Central and Eastern Europe.
With container throughput continuing to rise, additional Far East services and major infrastructure investments underway, Koper is strengthening its position as an important alternative gateway for European cargo moving through the Adriatic.