UK major ports report 5% increase in freight tonnage in Q1 2025

By Admin

09 Jun, 2025

Freight activity at UK ports continues to strengthen, as confirmed by the latest quarterly port freight statistics released by the UK Department for Transport for the period January to March 2025. According to the report, total freight tonnage through UK major ports rose by 5% year-on-year, reaching 107.4 million tonnes, reflecting the sector’s ongoing resilience amid economic shifts and structural changes in global trade.

Inward Freight Drives Growth

The increase was driven largely by inward freight, which surged by 7% to 72.8 million tonnes. Outward tonnage experienced a modest uptick, rising just under 1% to 34.6 million tonnes. The rise in imports suggests strong domestic demand and potentially more stable trade conditions compared to the same quarter in 2024.

Unitised Traffic and Annual Trends

Unitised traffic which includes containers and Ro-Ro units grew by 3% to 4.8 million units in Q1 2025. On an annual basis (rolling year to March 2025), the report highlights a 2% increase in total tonnage to 425.9 million tonnes, while unitised traffic also rose by 2% to 21.3 million units.

Liquid Bulk and LNG See Strong Uptake

A major contributor to Q1 growth was liquid bulk cargo, which increased by 6% to 41 million tonnes. This was driven significantly by Milford Haven’s 31% rise in volume, owing to higher liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. Milford Haven, one of the UK’s primary energy ports located in Wales, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting national energy infrastructure, particularly in the LNG segment.

Container Growth and Port-Specific Highlights

Containerised cargo also showed strong performance, growing by 13% to 18.2 million tonnes, with the Port of London leading the way with a 16% increase. The Port of Tilbury, strategically positioned on the River Thames, remains a key hub supporting this rise, especially through its container and Ro-Ro operations.

Dry Bulk Declines Due to Industrial Changes

However, not all sectors saw growth. Dry bulk tonnage fell by 4% to 19 million tonnes, primarily due to a sharp 99% decline at Port Talbot. This South Wales port has been impacted by the closure of its blast furnaces in September 2024, as part of the region’s shift towards greener energy alternatives. Historically known for its steel production, Port Talbot’s future freight volumes may depend on how this transition unfolds.

Ro-Ro Freight Gains Amid Capacity Expansion

Ro-Ro freight tonnage rose by 4% to 23.6 million tonnes, bolstered by a 60% capacity increase by P&O Ferries on the London (Tilbury)–Rotterdam route. However, Ro-Ro non-freight units fell by 8%, affected by operational disruptions at ports such as Tyne and Holyhead, highlighting the challenges that still persist in certain port areas.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

The Department for Transport acknowledged that Brexit-related shifts and changes in the energy landscape remain key influences on UK port freight activity. The data illustrates both the strength and vulnerability of specific segments within the industry.

Ports like Grimsby and Immingham, crucial for liquid bulk and Ro-Ro freight on the east coast of England, continue to remain among the busiest in the country by tonnage, contributing significantly to overall performance.

The full annual port freight statistics for 2025 will be published in summer 2026, providing a more comprehensive view of the evolving dynamics within UK port operations.