Q2 Maritime Traffic: Fewer Ships in French Ports, but Skyrocketing Bills

Commercial ships loaded and unloaded significantly less in France in the spring of 2026. According to official figures from the Data and Statistical Studies Service (SDES) published in September, the volume of goods handled by major French seaports fell by 2.6% in the second quarter, settling at 71.1 million tons.

The Decline of Liquid Bulk and Hydrocarbons

The main reason for this decline is clearly identified: the transport of hydrocarbons, known as liquid bulk (crude oil, fuels). This sector continues to plunge, prolonging the drop already recorded at the beginning of the year.

While public authorities may see decreasing fuel volumes as a victory for the ecological transition, the economic reality on the docks is much harsher. Fewer oil ships entering the territory mechanically means far fewer customs taxes paid to the State and less activity for port workers.

The Paradoxical Explosion of Transport Prices

The other major difficulty of this situation is financial, as one might think that decreased port activity would lead to lower transport prices. However, according to another study by the same ministry on freight prices published in mid-September, maritime transport prices exploded by +13.9% during this same second quarter of 2026.

This price increase is notably explained by global tensions that often force ships to take detours to avoid conflict zones, which lengthens voyages and costs a lot in fuel and insurance. Added to this is the increase in domestic road transport rates (+4.2%) to move goods from the port to destination warehouses.

The Worst Scenario for the Supply Chain

This is the worst possible scenario for French importers and exporters. Logistics companies must not only find goods to fill the void left by oil, but they must also pay much more to transport their standard cargo containers (clothing, electronic parts, furniture).

In conclusion, maritime trade is transporting lower volumes of energy, but every shipping container that arrives at the port costs much more to transport and clear through customs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did activity in French ports decrease in Q2 2026?

The 2.6% decline (dropping to 71.1 million tons) is primarily due to a sharp fall in the transport of hydrocarbons and liquid bulk. While positive for the ecological transition, it reduces port activity and customs tax revenues.

Why are freight prices rising despite lower volumes?

Maritime transport prices surged by 13.9% due to global tensions that force ships to detour around conflict zones, significantly increasing fuel and insurance costs.

What are the consequences for importers of standard goods?

Importers face a dual financial penalty: they must absorb the skyrocketing maritime freight costs and a 4.2% increase in domestic road transport rates, making it much more expensive to transport and clear standard containers like clothing or electronics.