HHLA container throughput falls 7.3% as automation challenges weigh on earnings

Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) reported a 7.3% decline in container throughput during the first nine months of 2026, as terminal automation projects and operational disruptions affected performance at its Hamburg facilities.

Total container throughput fell to 4.45 million TEUs, compared with 4.80 million TEUs in the same period last year. Meanwhile, container transport volumes increased slightly by 0.5% to 1.51 million TEUs.

Despite lower handling volumes, Group revenue rose by 3.3% to €1.38 billion. However, operating profit (EBIT) declined by 30.7% to €81.2 million, down from €117.1 million a year earlier.

According to HHLA, the implementation of additional automation at its Hamburg terminals affected productivity. Strike-related disruptions in the third quarter, severe winter weather and changing international trade flows also contributed to the decline.

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