The Port of Santander grows by 12,4% in the first two months and is heading towards eight million tons

 

El Puerto de Santander It reached a traffic of 1.118.415 tons during the first two months of 2026, representing an increase of 12,4% compared to the previous year. This growth, led by the planned management from the Autoridad Portuaria de Santander (APS), places the year-on-year projection close to eight million tons.

 

Consolidation of growth and strategic roadmap

 

The president of the APS, César DíazHe emphasized that these results confirm a "sustainable and sustained evolution over time." According to the executive, the current logistics activity is the result of... Strategic Plan with a horizon of 2030, approved by the Consejo de Administración in June of last year. This operational framework seeks to protect Cantabrian infrastructure from the global uncertainties that affect international trade.

 

To guarantee this expansion, the port is implementing a robust investment plan that adds 270 millones de euros in public and private projects. Key projects include the construction of the dock of Raos 6The expansion of the car silo and the modernization of several docks. These works are complemented by cross-cutting initiatives in digitization, sustainability and security.

 

Traffic Analysis: Bulk and General Cargo

 

The breakdown of activity between January and February shows mixed performance across different segments. Solid bulk cargo experienced an extraordinary surge of 29,2%, reaching 538.597 tons. General cargo , meanwhile, contributed 556.116 tons, with a growth of 3,1%. In terms of connectivity, container traffic climbed 18,9% to reach 26.612 TEUs.

 

In contrast, liquid bulk cargo experienced a 39,6% decline, while automobile traffic saw a slight drop of 1,4% with 45.094 units. However, passenger traffic continues its upward trend with 12.987 users, 3,3% more than in the same period of 2025.

 

Traffic Category	Tonnage / Units (Bimonthly)	Variation (%)
Total Accumulated	1.118.415 t	+ 12,4 %
Solid Bulks	538.597 t	+ 29,2 %
General merchandise	556.116 t	+ 3,1 %
Containers (TEUs)	26.612	+ 18,9 %
Automobiles (Units)	45.094	-1,4%
passengers	12.987	+ 3,3 %

 

Economic impact on the hinterland

 

El Puerto de Santander It reaffirms itself as the region's main economic engine. In the words of César DíazThe infrastructure currently contributes to a 11% to employment or with a 14% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) de Cantabria"Our goal is to facilitate the logistics activities of companies in our country." hinterland through a specialized and efficient port community,” the president noted, also highlighting the collaboration with the Gobierno de Cantabria.

 

On an annual basis (March 2025 – February 2026), the port already registers 7.274.308 tons, which represents a growth of 4,4% compared to the previous cycle, consolidating its strategic position on the Atlantic coast.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Port of Santander

 

What is the short-term traffic target for the port?

Thanks to sustained growth of 12,4% at the beginning of 2026, the Puerto de Santander has set itself the goal of reaching the figure of eight million tons annually.

 

How much is the planned investment in infrastructure?

The port has an investment plan of 270 millones de euros, intended for projects such as the dock of Raos 6, the improvement of existing docks and sustainability and digitalization projects.

 

What impact does the port have on the economy of Cantabria?

Port activity is vital to the region, contributing 14% of the regional GDP and generating 11% of total employment in its area of ​​influence.