LKAB strengthens the strategic Iron Ore Line route with a new ship loader in Narvik

The old ship loader was commissioned in 1977 and has reached the end of its technical lifespan. Now, a modern facility takes over, built to meet today’s requirements for efficiency, work environment, and environmental performance.

“Our logistics is a competitive factor. Every improvement in the port strengthens our position in the global market. The new loader is enclosed and equipped with modern safety solutions, which is important not least from a work environment perspective. This secures our ability to deliver quickly, safely, and sustainably,” says Marit Waleniussen, CEO of LKAB Norway.

The ship loader is part of a larger ongoing investment program of five billion SEK through 2029. This includes automated silo systems, a new loader at quay 5, sifting stations, belt conveyors, unloading stations, and a new storage facility for fines. All aimed at streamlining logistics between mine, railway, and ship.

“We see Narvik as a central part of LKAB’s future. The Iron Ore Line and the port of Narvik are of great economic importance for Sweden and a strategically vital transport corridor for all of Europe. What still remains is to increase capacity along the entire Iron Ore Line,” says Jan Moström, President and CEO of LKAB.

Narvik’s ice-free and deep-water port is crucial for LKAB’s exports. Around 300 vessels call annually, of which 200 are loaded with LKAB’s products. LKAB accounts for 80% of all iron ore mined in the EU, and the vast majority is delivered via the Iron Ore Line and the port of Narvik.

“We have been in Narvik for over 120 years and plan for at least 120 more. Our continued investments here send a clear signal that we see Narvik as a central part of LKAB’s future,” says Jan Moström.

Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/ports-terminals/17122025/lkab-strengthens-the-strategic-iron-ore-line-route-with-a-new-ship-loader-in-narvik/