Economic clouds gather as Europe faces summer of congestion

Already congested ports in North Europe are bracing for a spike in volume this summer following the lifting of COVID-19 lockdowns in China, but deteriorating economic conditions in Europe could cause demand to drop in the fourth quarter.

Increasing import volume at North Europe’s hubs through summer and the peak season will maintain the current congestion at ports and inland transportation networks. Photo credit: Port of Rotterdam Authority

Already congested ports in North Europe are bracing for a spike in volume this summer following the lifting of COVID-19 lockdowns in China, but deteriorating economic conditions in Europe could cause demand to drop in the fourth quarter.