The Port of Tarragona grows by 6.3% up to July with 17.6 million tons of accumulated traffic
The Port of Tarragona has handled 17.6 million tons during the first seven months of 2026, 6.3% more than in the same period of the previous year. This figure confirms the positive trend that the port has maintained in recent months, mainly driven by bulk solids and liquid bulk.
With notable growth in key sectors such as petroleum products and iron ore, the Port of Tarragona not only increases volume but also strengthens its strategic position in the Mediterranean.
Solid and Liquid Bulk Traffic: What Does It Mean for the Port and the Region?
Why is the growth of bulk solids relevant for the people of Tarragona?
Bulk solids, especially cereals, feed, and flour, have grown by 11.9% in the accumulated year. This increase exceeds 4.9 million tons and shows significant dynamism that boosts the local agri-food activity and the economy of the Camp de Tarragona.
How does liquid bulk traffic impact the Port’s activity?
Liquid bulk continues to be the main driver with more than 11.5 million tons accumulated until July, 5.5% more. Petroleum products, with an increase of 12.8%, drive a volume close to 4 million tons, which supports the Port’s importance in energy supply.
Details of Significant Increases: Petroleum Products and Iron Ore
What has been the growth of petroleum products?
Petroleum products have experienced an increase of 12.8%, while crude oil remains stable at 5.19 million tons. This rise is key because it shows diversification and stability in the Port’s energy movement.
Why has iron ore grown by almost 50%?
Iron ore has recorded a spectacular leap of 49.9% in the accumulated year, with an 18.4% increase in July alone. This fact highlights a strengthening of the steel industry and its relationship with the Port as a key distribution point.
Other Data Explaining the Dynamics of the Port of Tarragona
How is vehicle traffic and cruise tourism evolving?
Vehicle movement grows by 61.3% with 18,737 units handled, while cruise traffic totals 18,763 passengers in July alone, with 34 calls during the year. This reinforces the Port as an economic and tourist hub of the region.
What figures reflect the activity of ships at the Port?
Merchant ship calls have increased by 5%, and a total of 1,290 calls were recorded from January to July, 1.4% more than in 2025. This steady increase shows the consolidation of the Port as a maritime hub in the western Mediterranean.
| Type of Traffic | Accumulated Volume 2026 (tons) | Increase Compared to 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk Solids | 4,953,523 | 11.9% |
| Bulk Solids (July) | 651,032 | 53% |
| Petroleum Products | 3,999,000 (approx.) | 12.8% |
| Crude Oil | 5,190,000 | Stable |
| Iron Ore | N/A | 49.9% |
| Vehicles Handled | 18,737 units | 61.3% |
| Cruise Passengers (July) | 18,763 | N/A |
| Merchant Ship Calls | 1,290 | 1.4% |
Source of the article: Editorial / Catalan News Agency
