In 2010, the port of Rotterdam handled over 40% more containers in the direct trade with Russia as compared to 2009. According to the prognosis, the number of twenty foot units (TEU) will be around 405,000. This will probably diminish the difference with market leader Hamburg to 10%. Although it is likely that growth along the Elb River gained some extra pace in autumn, it is quite sure that Rotterdam has been catching up. Before the crisis the difference between the ports amounted to 40 to 50%. These figures will be announced today by Mr. Hans Smits, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, during the Rotterdam-Russia in Rotterdam. (More: http://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/News/Events/Pages/rusland-conference.aspx)This event is attended by 70 managers of Russian companies engaged especially in the container sector as well as representatives of companies and organisations, such as Customs and the port community manager Portbase, from the Rotterdam port.