Record mobilization: Haifa Port Company leads in cargo handling amidst wartime challenges

Haifa Port's October figures paint a picture of maritime sector leadership.

 A general view of Haifa Port on July 24. (photo credit: ILAN ROSENBERG/REUTERS)
A general view of Haifa Port on July 24.
(photo credit: ILAN ROSENBERG/REUTERS)

Navigating the challenges of war, the Haifa Port Company has not only maintained but significantly strengthened its position in the Israeli maritime sector. October data released by the Transportation Ministry highlight Haifa Port’s dominance, with a remarkable 32% share of all containers arriving in Israel. This includes a substantial portion of cargo redirected from southern ports, highlighting the port’s capacity to adapt to changing circumstances and fulfill the growing needs of the shipping industry.

The ministry’s data reveal Haifa Port’s leadership across diverse market segments in October, spanning containers, general cargo, and vehicles. Operated by Adani-Gadot, the Haifa Port Company demonstrated agility in meeting the heightened demands of the shipping industry during this challenging period.

In container transport, Haifa Port not only secured 32% of all containers in Israel but also an outstanding 39% of full containers, excluding empty container transportation. This accomplishment is noteworthy, considering the decline in market share experienced by other ports during the same period.

Haifa on the rise as other Israeli ports suffer

The automotive sector witnessed a significant shift in favor of Haifa Port, with vehicle activity reaching a substantial 50% of the entire industry in October. This marks a stark contrast to the port’s 12% market share in 2022, highlighting a remarkable and rapid four-fold expansion in this sector.

 Israeli and Indian national flags fly at Haifa Port, which is to be sold to India's Adani Ports and local partner Gadot, in Haifa, Israel July 24, 2022. (credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN)
Israeli and Indian national flags fly at Haifa Port, which is to be sold to India's Adani Ports and local partner Gadot, in Haifa, Israel July 24, 2022. (credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN)

Udi Sharon, CEO of the Port of Haifa, attributed this success to the trust placed in the port by its customers. “The figures of the Shipping and Ports Authority express the trust that the customers of the Port of Haifa place in us,” stated Sharon. He emphasized the port’s commitment to finding solutions even during peak times, leveraging the creativity and expertise of its professional port workers.

Sharon further acknowledged the pivotal role played by the ownership, the Indian Adani Group and Israeli Gadot, as well as the dedication of the Haifa Port staff. “An increase of tens of percent in activity in such a short time, while providing an excellent service that was not affected despite the increase in the volume of activity, are the result of the commitment,” he noted. He concluded by stating that this resilience is ingrained in the DNA of the Port of Haifa, “today more than ever.”