Haifa port achieves record Q1 growth

Adani Ports-operated Haifa Port in Israel recorded its strongest-ever first-quarter performance in FY25, achieving all-time high quarterly revenue and operating EBITDA since the Indian infrastructure giant assumed control nearly two years ago. The milestone was reached despite temporary disruptions in June amid heightened Iran-Israel tensions, highlighting the port’s resilience and strategic significance.

In Q1 FY25 (April–June), container throughput climbed 28% year-on-year to 191,986 TEUs from 150,539 TEUs. General cargo volumes rose 27% to 259,000 tonnes, while bulk cargo surged 45% to 793,000 tonnes — all despite a 12-day operational slowdown during the conflict. With momentum firmly in place, the port’s growth outlook remains robust.

Port officials reported a strong rebound in cargo flows in July, indicating that June’s slowdown was brief and effectively offset by Haifa Port’s swift operational measures and customer retention initiatives. Much of the container volume growth stems from the port’s success in capturing market share from rival Israeli ports, including a nearby Chinese-operated terminal and facilities at Ashdod, roughly 120 kilometres to the south.

Haifa Port has expanded its service network by adding new shipping lines and boosting throughput from major global carriers, bolstered by its standing as Israel’s most efficient port — a distinction earned even without full automation. Vehicle imports emerged as another standout segment, with the port reinforcing its position as the country’s primary gateway. In Q1 FY25, Haifa handled 33,154 vehicles, up from 30,987 in the same period last year and 21,252 two years ago, reflecting steady growth in this category.

The general cargo business — historically a weaker segment for the port — has been revitalised with the launch of new berths equipped with five cutting-edge cranes. To support its growth ambitions, Haifa Port is also ramping up recruitment to further expand capacity.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd in partnership with Israel’s Gadot Group, took operational control of Haifa Port in January 2023 after winning the privatization bid for $1.18 billion. Under the terms of the deal, Adani holds a 70 per cent stake and Gadot holds 30 per cent, securing a 66-year concession to operate, develop and manage the port. This marked India’s largest infrastructure investment in Israel and gives the Adani Group long-term control over one of the key commercial gateways in that country. Haifa is one of the four overseas ports/facilities run by APSEZ.