Activity at Torrevieja’s Poniente dock has ramped up as winter storms drive demand for road de-icing in January. With the arrival of colder weather, Torrevieja’s salt begins its journey abroad. The French group Salins, which manages the state-owned lagoons, has seen increased export activity. According to Salins’ industrial director, Joseph Pérez, 110,000 tons of salt have already been shipped, primarily to northern Europe. Notably, 70,000 tons were exported in December alone.
The first shipment of the season arrived in October aboard the vessel Grina. “Practically all of it has been used for road de-icing,” Pérez explains. Traditional markets such as England, Scotland, Sweden, and Norway remain key destinations, with Ireland emerging as a growing customer. While some salt is transported by road to northern Spain, the volume is comparatively modest.
Regarding maritime exports, Pérez estimates that around 25 ships have already docked at Poniente. This facility is especially efficient, as vessels can load salt and leave with minimal delays. “We offer a ‘pick-and-go’ service, allowing ships to avoid long waiting times,” Pérez notes. Occasionally, multiple ships are seen waiting outside the Levante breakwater to dock, an unusual but exciting sight for locals. Last year, two large cargo ships visited after heavy snowfall disrupted Scandinavia.
The ships arriving this season range in capacity from 7,000 to 9,000 tons, with the largest so far holding 9,500 tons. Loading a ship of that size at the Muelle de la Sal typically takes about a day and a half, Pérez explains. Supplies are plentiful, with over 400,000 tons stockpiled thanks to favourable weather conditions in recent years.
Salins reports that the 2023-2024 export season was particularly successful, and Pérez is optimistic about the current season. However, he emphasizes the unpredictability of weather, which greatly impacts demand. “We hope 2025 brings plenty of cold and snow to northern Europe,” he says.
With steady activity at the Poniente dock and strong demand from winter markets, Torrevieja continues to solidify its position as a key exporter of road-de-icing salt. The unique efficiency of its port operations and ample reserves ensure that the town remains a vital supplier during the winter months.
