Hallands Hamnar inaugurates its “Ocean Port”

Held on March 19, 2026, the inauguration of Ocean Port marks the first stage of Hallands Hamnar’s major infrastructure upgrade and expansion investment of SEK 1.4 billion (≈ EUR 128.8 million) in the Port of Halmstad.

This is our largest investment ever. With new quays, larger areas, and modern infrastructure, we are strengthening our role as an important port player and creating the conditions for larger volumes and more types of goods. The inauguration of Oceanhamnen is the first important step in our infrastructure investment, said Carl-Henrik Hägg, CEO of Hallands Hamnar

There was a large turnout from the business community, the region, the municipality, and the trade organization Ports of Sweden, when the new port section was inaugurated earlier today

The new Ocean Port primarily strengthens Hallands Hamnar’s capacity in the materials recycling sector.

We expect to increase capacity in the recycling segment by around 40 percent, while opening up for new types of goods. With Oceanhamnen, we have also expanded the port’s total area to approximately 800,000 square meters, which strengthens our position within intermodal transport, Carl-Henrik Hägg said.

Strengthening the region’s competitiveness

The Ocean Port has a draft of 12 meters and a 200-meter-long quay, allowing it to berth larger ships. The port areas have been raised three meters above sea level, and directly adjacent to the quay, there are approximately 25,000 square meters for goods handling and storage

In total, Ports of Halland, through the owner Halmstad Municipality, has invested approximately SEK 230 million (≈ EUR 21.2 million) in the Ocean Port.

The EU agency Cinea has also co-financed parts of the area. The port is prepared for electrification with onshore power for ships and charging infrastructure for port machinery and customer vehicle fleets.

The Ocean Port is part of the municipality’s and the Port’s extensive infrastructure development in and around the port area in Halmstad, which will continue until 2035.

Investments totaling SEK 1.4 billion (≈ EUR 128.8 million) will streamline transport to and from the port and, with more quays, larger areas, and modern infrastructure, strengthen the port’s overall competitiveness.

In addition, direct connections to the motorway, a new railway siding, and an electrified shunting yard capable of handling block train sets (c. 750 m length) will be built next to the quay.

A strategic investment

The expansion is a strategic response to future logistics needs and part of Halmstad’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading logistics hub in the Nordic region.

This vision is based on a long-term analysis of global trade patterns, technological advancements, and an increased demand for sustainable transport solutions.

Halmstad’s geographical location, together with historical successes in trade and industry, offers unique conditions to become a hub for efficient and environmentally friendly logistics flows.

By investing in Ocean Port and its associated infrastructure, the city prepares itself to meet tomorrow’s challenges, promote economic growth, and contribute to sustainable development at both local and international levels.

The investments we make in the port are made in conjunction with the needs of the business community to increase both their and the region’s competitiveness. Halmstad is strategically close to the continent and is easily accessible for Swedish imports and exports. With expanded port operations, we expect increased interest from companies to establish themselves here, said Stefan Pålsson, Chairman of the Halmstad Municipal Executive Board.

Construction of the Ocean Port began in 2023 and was completed on schedule in December 2025, with the first vessels received in March 2026.