In 2024, Mediterranean ports handled more than 68 million TEUs, consolidating their position as key points on international shipping routes. This growth represents a 6% increase over 2023, driven by the reconfiguration of supply chains and shipping companies’ commitment to hubs near the Suez Canal. Spain, with strategic locations such as Valencia, Barcelona and Algeciras, is leading this expansion and positioning itself as one of the main gateways for goods entering Europe, channelling more than 60% of the country’s maritime trade.
In this scenario, Smart Logistics, a logistics operator that is part of Alonso Group, is present in these areas to provide solutions that connect the European port network with major global trade flows and promote internationalisation.
Expanding ports
Mediterranean ports are experiencing a period of growth that reflects their importance in global trade. The diversification of trade routes, the search for alternatives to the major corridors of northern Europe, and the increase in container traffic have brought prominence to enclaves such as Valencia (with more than 5.2 million TEUs in 2024), Barcelona, Algeciras, and Tangier Med.
In addition, infrastructure investments exceeded €1.2 billion in the region last year, with projects to expand maritime terminals and improve rail links connecting ports with the continent’s main logistics hubs. These ports not only channel goods to and from Asia, Africa and America, but also act as logistics platforms for redistribution throughout Europe.
Companies such as Smart Logistics have taken advantage of this momentum, expanding their presence in European ports and providing technology to optimise supply chains. This expansion reflects how Spanish innovation is helping to make international logistics more competitive, with solutions that integrate real-time traceability and digital platforms for cargo management.
Progress towards decarbonisation
Along with expansion, sustainability has become a priority for maritime transport and port authorities. Spain is leading projects to electrify docks—such as the OPS plan in Valencia and Barcelona—improve rail connections, and reduce emissions in major ports.
These investments, totalling more than €500 million over the next three years, seek not only to meet European decarbonisation targets, but also to transform ports into more efficient and environmentally friendly spaces.
In this transition towards so-called ‘green ports’, logistics companies are providing digital solutions that help reduce waiting times, optimise routes and decrease the carbon footprint of operations. Their commitment to sustainable innovation reinforces the idea that the future of maritime trade will be as competitive as it is environmentally responsible.
These milestones mark a new era for European logistics, with its international expansion and contribution to the digitalisation and decarbonisation of the sector.
