Port of Barcelona upgrade begins

The work, which began in mid-August, is designed to increase the terminal’s operational capacity, accommodate larger vessels and boost decarbonisation in line with the company’s long-term sustainability goals.

“This contract represents a strategic milestone for APM Terminals and reaffirms our firm commitment to the port development of Barcelona and to the sustainable growth of Spain as a key logistics hub in Europe,” said Julián Fernández, managing director of APM Terminals Spanish Gateways.

The project includes increasing the quay’s draught to 15 metres, reinforcing berth foundations, adapting mooring systems and replacing crane rails to support five new ship-to-shore cranes. Three of the cranes, supplied by ZPMC, have already arrived, with the remaining two due by mid-2026.

The infrastructure improvements will allow the terminal to berth and operate two mega-container ships simultaneously, significantly increasing efficiency and service levels in the Mediterranean. By 2028, the terminal will complete investments exceeding €156 million, covering both infrastructure upgrades and new equipment.

The upgrade also includes the implementation of shorepower and the use of a pioneering berth reinforcement technique, internationally recognised for maintaining full operational capacity during upgrades.