The Port of Bilbao has reinforced its strategic partnership with COSCO Group, the world’s largest shipping company, aiming to expand its role as a key gateway for trade between Europe and Asia.
High-level meetings have been held with COSCO Shipping Ports and COSCO Shipping Lines to explore new opportunities in international logistics and trade development. These discussions are being hailed as strengthening collaboration on container traffic, intermodal connections and operational efficiency.
“The hospitality and commitment of the COSCO Group to the Port of Bilbao are invaluable,” said Ivan Jimenez, president of the Bilbao Port Authority.
“This collaboration will enhance the port’s international standing and reinforce its role as a strategic gateway for trade between Europe and Asia.”
COSCO’s support provides Bilbao with direct links to more than 50 Chinese ports and 20 inland logistics centres, enabling faster, more reliable trade flows and helping the port position itself as a competitive alternative to congested northern European hubs.
The partnership also supports the Bilbao’s strategic goals in sustainability and technological transformation. By using COSCO’s extensive network, Bilbao can further optimise container handling, reduce transit times and enhance operational resilience across the Atlantic and Iberian markets.
“Through our partnership with COSCO, we can continue to offer fast, sustainable and cost-effective freight transport while strengthening Bilbao’s position as a leading European logistics hub,” said Andima Ormaetxe, director of Operations, Commerce, Logistics and Strategy.
