The start of 2026 has been marked by global challenges, but Finnlines’ results and outlook remain stable. The shipping company is determined to ensure that both commercial and industrial transport remain reliable regardless of circumstances, and to respond to changes in market conditions through long-term and targeted investments.
Finnlines CEO Thomas Doepel comments on the interim report:
“The first three months of the year have been characterised by heightened volatility across the entire shipping industry. The major conflict in the Middle East, where the USA and Israel attacked Iran on 28 February 2026 and the Strait of Hormuz was closed, has caused the biggest disruption to the global oil market in modern times. For Finnlines, this was immediately noticeable through sharp increases in fuel prices and increased price volatility. As a consequence of the delay in passing on the increased fuel costs in our bunker adjustment factor (BAF), the short-term price increases had a negative effect on the quarter's result.
The global energy crisis was not the only factor increasing the costs of intra-European trade. From 1 January 2026, the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) requires ships to cover 100 per cent of their emissions, introducing significant new carbon costs.
From a financial perspective, the first quarter of the year marked a stable start to the year for Finnlines. The Finnlines Group’s turnover for January–March 2026 amounted to 176.9 (166.0 in 2025) million euros, and the company’s financial position remained strong. Operating profit (EBIT) amounted to 10.3 (11.2 in 2025) million euros. Thanks to lower financing costs, profit before tax (EBT) improved slightly compared with the previous year, amounting to 8.0 (7.9) million euros.
During January–March, Finnlines transported approximately 196,000 cargo units, 19,000 cars (excluding passenger cars), and 297,000 tonnes of non-unitised cargo. In addition, 162,000 private passengers and professional drivers travelled with us.
Amidst geopolitical uncertainty, Finnlines is more committed than ever to ensuring vital maritime transport infrastructure. In doing so, the European internal market and Europe's strategic autonomy are safeguarded. Our task is to ensure that trade and industrial flows remain reliable under all circumstances and to meet changes in the market situation through long-term and determined investments.
Through continuous investment in new and more energy-efficient vessels, we not only reduce our emissions but also our exposure to rising energy costs. Together with ongoing optimisation of services, capacity and route networks, this ensures that Finnlines remains a central player in supporting economic growth, environmental responsibility, and security of supply in the Baltic Sea region.
