Port of Rotterdam Deploys Quantum AI for Real-Time Maritime Traffic Optimization

The Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest seaport and a vital artery for international trade, has officially gone quantum. On April 24, 2025, port officials announced the launch of a real-time maritime traffic optimization system powered by quantum AI. This marks the first large-scale commercial deployment of quantum computing for port operations in the world.

The Scale of Operations

Handling over 470 million tonnes of cargo annually, the Port of Rotterdam serves as the entry and exit point for goods bound for Europe’s 500+ million consumers. Efficient scheduling is critical—yet ship berthing and cargo handling involve thousands of interdependent variables, from tide patterns and labor availability to crane allocation and customs inspections.

The Quantum Edge

 Developed in collaboration with IBM Quantum and TNO (Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), the system uses a hybrid architecture. Classical AI handles predictive forecasting based on historical data, while quantum processors tackle real-time optimization challenges. The quantum component rapidly calculates the most efficient sequence of berthing and cargo transfers, minimizing conflicts and reducing ship idle times.

Key Features

 Dynamic Berth Assignment: Recalculates vessel docking priorities every 15 minutes based on updated arrival data.
Cargo Flow Optimization: Matches unloading schedules with downstream trucking and rail availability.
Predictive Disruption Management: Anticipates delays from storms or labor shortages and adjusts plans accordingly.

Early Gains

Since the system’s soft launch in January 2025, the port has recorded an 11% increase in container throughput and a 9% reduction in ship turnaround time. Officials expect these gains to improve further as machine learning models are refined with more quantum-processed data.

Sustainability Impact

Faster throughput not only improves revenue but also cuts greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the hours ships spend idling at port—a significant contributor to maritime pollution.

European Trade Implications

Rotterdam’s quantum initiative could become a template for other major ports, especially as competition intensifies with Antwerp, Hamburg, and Marseille. Analysts suggest that widespread adoption could shave days off intercontinental supply chain cycles.