The Port of Helsinki recorded a 10.3% year-on-year decline in cargo throughput in January, reflecting softer trade volumes at the start of the year.
According to preliminary figures released by the port authority, total cargo handled during the month fell compared with January last year, with declines observed across several freight segments. The drop has been attributed to weaker demand in key European markets, seasonal slowdowns, and ongoing adjustments in regional trade flows.
Containerised cargo and ro-ro traffic, which form a significant portion of Helsinki’s overall volumes, saw moderated activity amid cautious inventory management and subdued industrial output. However, passenger ferry-linked freight services continued to play a vital role in maintaining connectivity between Finland and key Baltic and Northern European destinations.
Port officials noted that while January showed a contraction, cargo volumes are expected to stabilise in the coming months as trade activity gradually picks up and supply chains normalise.
The Port of Helsinki remains one of Finland’s primary trade gateways, handling a substantial share of the country’s imports and exports, particularly in unitised and ro-ro cargo.