Hamburg to invest €1.1 billion to expand port and modernize operations for blue economy growth
By Faridat Salifu
The Port of Hamburg has unveiled a €1.1 billion infrastructure plan to expand and modernize terminal operations, improve navigational efficiency, and position the port for long-term sustainability under the global blue economy framework.
Announced by Hamburg’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Senator Dr Melanie Leonhard, recently the initiative aims to boost the port’s capacity to handle ultra-large containerships while strengthening its role as a key node on major international shipping routes.
The project will widen the turning basin at the Waltershofer Hafen from 480 meters to 600 meters to accommodate larger vessels and improve maneuverability at Hamburg’s busiest container hub.
Port officials say around 90 percent of the world’s ultra-large container vessels that call at Hamburg currently use this basin, making its expansion critical for safe, efficient navigation and future throughput growth.
The improvements will benefit all berths within the Waltershofer Hafen and ease navigation toward two other major container terminals: Buchardkai (CTB) and Container Terminal Hamburg (CTH).
Officials said these upgrades will help optimize traffic flow, reduce port congestion, and contribute to overall resilience along the River Elbe — an essential trade corridor in northern Europe.
The port also plans to develop additional berths and terminal yards to support the electrification and automation of container handling processes.
These enhancements will make way for more energy-efficient operations, aligning with decarbonization targets and Hamburg’s broader shift toward climate-smart port logistics.
EUROGATE, which co-operates the terminal, confirmed it will invest at least €700 million in transforming the port into an automated terminal, with advanced superstructure, smart IT systems, and heavy equipment upgrades forming part of the overhaul.
The automation strategy will be rolled out across existing facilities and newly developed land, integrating rail and road access to reduce transit bottlenecks and improve hinterland connectivity.
Much of the new land will be created by infilling the existing basin along the Bubendey bank, allowing for a seamless extension of port operations.
The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) will carry out the public infrastructure works, with a phased completion timeline extending to the mid-2030s.
Officials say the project is key to securing the port’s long-term competitiveness in an era of accelerating global trade, larger vessels, and mounting environmental challenges.
By expanding capacity, embracing digital and automated operations, and future-proofing its physical infrastructure, the Port of Hamburg is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable maritime growth.
Port authorities emphasized that the investments also reinforce Hamburg’s commitment to blue economy principles by balancing economic competitiveness with environmental responsibility in its marine and coastal infrastructure planning.
