Port Metro Vancouver throughput up to 140 million tonnes of cargo in 2014
Port Metro Vancouver released its 2014 year-end statistics, showing its second consecutive year of record-breaking cargo volumes.
The year was marked by best-ever volumes in the bulk and container sectors, resulting in a record overall year in tonnage. The port’s terminals handled 140 million tonnes of cargo in 2014, up three per cent from 2013. Import cargo rose 4.1 per cent to 29 million tonnes, and exports rose 3.3 per cent to 111 million tonnes, the company said in its press release.
Substantial completion of major infrastructure programs and projects, significant accomplishments in environmental initiatives, and ongoing community engagement were key to managing this growth and striking an appropriate balance between economic development and community interests.
“The port had another record year for cargo volumes, illustrating the demands created by a growing Canadian economy and increasing international desire for Canadian trade,” said Robin Silvester, President and Chief Executive Officer, Port Metro Vancouver. “I’m proud of the leading-edge environmental initiatives, community engagement and infrastructure projects we have completed this year to help balance this continued growth with our local quality of life.”
Bulk volumes increased by 5.3 per cent over 2013, with substantial increases in grain exports after a bumper crop year and strong international demand spurred an 18 per cent increase in exports of wheat and 31 per cent increase for canola. Bulk coal volumes remained strong as volumes increased in several emerging markets from more traditional markets. Bulk potash reached a new record of 7.5 million tonnes, a 14 per cent increase from the previous year.
Container volumes continued to grow, with a 3.1 per cent increase over 2013, despite reduced volumes in the month of March due to a container trucking disruption.
“Every year, millions of tonnes of cargo are handled at Port Metro Vancouver. As we further develop our already robust trade ties with the world, this number will only go up,” said the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport. “The record volume of goods that move through the port every year is testament to Canada’s strong economic growth, and demonstrates Canada’s important role as a vital trading partner to the rest of the world.”
Auto volumes declined in 2014 largely due to a shift in vehicle production from Asia to North America. Breakbulk volumes also fell slightly due to a decrease in log exports. Cruise passenger numbers however remained strong, as Port Metro Vancouver welcomed 812,095 passengers throughout the 2014 season.
Port Metro Vancouver is Canada’s largest gateway, handling 19 per cent of the value of Canada’s total trade in goods.
About Port Metro Vancouver:
Port Metro Vancouver is Canada’s largest port and the fourth largest tonnage port in North America, responsible for Canada’s trade with more than 160 world economies. Located in a naturally beautiful setting on Canada’s west coast, Port Metro Vancouver is responsible for the efficient and reliable movement of goods and passengers, and integrates environmental, social and economic sustainability initiatives into all areas of port operations. Port Metro Vancouver is committed to meaningful engagement with the communities in which it operates and the shared obligation to improve the quality of life for Canadians. Enabling the trade of approximately $184 billion in goods annually, the port generates an estimated 100,000 jobs, $6.1 billion in wages, and $9.7 billion in GDP across Canada. As a non-shareholder, financially self-sufficient corporation established by the Government of Canada, Port Metro Vancouver operates pursuant to the Canada Marine Act and is accountable to the elected federal Minister of Transport.