The Atlantic logistics corridor is quietly tightening, and a recent high-level visit to Bilbao suggests that strategic capacity decisions are moving from theory to execution. The Port of Bilbao has hosted senior executives from CMA CGM, placing short sea shipping, decarbonisation, and digitalisation firmly on the operational agenda.

A Meeting Focused on Capabilities, Not Ceremony

Andima Ormaetxe Bengoa, Director of Operations, Commercial and Logistics at Port of Bilbao, met with the newly formed CMA CGM management team to examine what new services and cargo capabilities could realistically be developed from Bilbao. The discussion centred on infrastructure readiness, hinterland connectivity, and how short sea services can absorb growing pressure on overland transport routes.

For port professionals, the key question is familiar. Can Atlantic ports offer both scale and flexibility without adding complexity to supply chains? Bilbao is positioning itself as an answer to that challenge.

Short Sea Shipping Moves Up the Strategic Agenda

The visiting delegation included Pierre-Edouard Eouzan, Vice President Europe at Short Sea Lines, alongside Julien Daguerre, Chris D’Arcy, John Blessington, and Zoja Malceva. Together, they represent decision makers responsible for shaping short sea networks across Europe and Iberia under the CMA CGM umbrella.

Short sea routes are increasingly treated as pressure valves for congested road and deep sea networks. The talks explored how Bilbao could serve as a multimodal node linking maritime services with rail and road, particularly along the Atlantic axis.

Decarbonisation and Digitalisation as Commercial Drivers

Beyond capacity, the visit highlighted how environmental targets are becoming operational criteria. Bilbao’s role as a partner in maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation was a central theme, not a side note. From shore power to smarter port data flows, the discussion reflected how sustainability is now shaping service design rather than following it.

For carriers and cargo owners, the implication is clear. Ports that align infrastructure, technology, and environmental goals are the ones likely to secure future service commitments.

Source: Breakbulk News