Hamburg targeting “global mega trends”…

The Hamburg Senate has endorsed a new port development plan. As a result, the strategic guidelines for future port policy and availability of land for port development are better known.

Dr. Melanie Leonhard, Senator of Economics and Innovation explains: “Hamburg is and will remain Germany’s largest seaport. This is of fundamental importance for the economic strength of Germany as an exporting economy and for supply chain security at national and European level. Going forward, we shall continue to operate a large, efficient universal seaport that serves these aims. Cargo handling is not an end in itself and container numbers may be an indicator but are not the only relevant factor. Unlike other ports, Hamburg is itself a significant market and industrial base. Goods on arrival are not only transhipped, but also consumed or further processed.“

The Senate also confirmsthat the port will focus on “global mega-trends” including digitalization, climate protection, and e-commerce, to extend its competitive position. Other key areas of focus include special attention given to the Port Railway network and the rail infrastructure with the hinterland, noting that from 2040 the Port should be climate-neutral in its operations. Moreover, expansion of shore power-supply for vessels to reduce emissions of harmful pollutants, contributing directly towards keeping the atmosphere clean are also key points of note.