According to Research and Markets, the Port of Thessaloniki is set to hold the top position in Greece's maritime sector in terms of total tonnage throughput for the fifth consecutive year in 2012, after overtaking the Port of Piraeus in 2008. Meanwhile, Piraeus will retain its position as the country's busiest container facility.

Over the mid-term, Research and Markets projects moderate growth in tonnage at the Port of Thessaloniki. Piraeus is estimated to have continued to recover its box volumes, as it maintained positive growth in 2011. For 2012, however, Research and Markets predicts declines at both of the country's main ports due to Greece's poor economic outlook.

In 2012, the Port of Thessaloniki tonnage throughput is forecast to decrease 1%; but over the mid-term Research and Markets projects a 7% increase. The Port of Piraeus container throughput is forecast to decrease 2%; but over the mid-term Research and Markets projects a 12% increase.

The total trade growth forecast for 2012 is -2.14%.