A new KPB analysis of the economic ripple effect shows that the Port of Bodø plays an important role in creating value and employment in the region. The calculations indicate that the total economic ripple effect in 2024 amounted to USD 185 million, with 1,414 person-years linked to port activity.
Bodø Havn functions as an important logistics and transport hub in Norway. With over 12,000 port calls in 2024 and 324,000 tons of cargo loaded and unloaded, it is one of the most important terminals in the region. The port handles all types of transport, from fishing and industry to the movement of goods and passengers, and is an important link between sea, road, and rail.
According to KPB’s calculations, the port generated significant ripple effects in 2024, both through the direct activity of Bodø Havn KF and that of other related actors.
The activity in the port contributed to, out of the 1,414 full-time equivalents, 687 being focused on Bodø, and out of the USD 185 million in total value creation, USD 117 million were at the local level in the city, as well as USD 26.4 million in annual tax revenues, with USD 3 million for the city.
The largest impact on employment was due to fishing and aquaculture activity, with 587 person-years, followed closely by transport and logistics, with 470. Tourism, cruises, and coastal routes also contributed with over 120 man-years.
The cruise segment has grown in recent years and stands out as an industry with a significant local impact. In 2024, Bodø received 30 cruise calls and 46,500 passengers. This contributed to a total value creation of USD 3.26 million and a positive impact of approximately 30 man-years.
Tourist ship traffic has a positive impact beyond the port, in the form of increased trade, employment, and activity during the times of the year when there are fewer visitors to Bodø and the region.
Overall, the cruise industry in Bodø contributed to 22 local man-years in 2024, and the potential for employment growth is significant if traffic increases in scale. Tourism, including these ships, represents important future sectors for the city, an activity that generates income for, among others, the commercial sector, catering operators, and local experience providers.
In addition, the coastal route, express boats, and the Bodø-Lofoten ferry connection had over 600,000 passengers in total in 2024. The free ferry program and the increase in tourism have contributed to a significant growth in traffic, especially during the summer months.
