According to results released this morning, Port Metro Vancouver handled 58.7 million tonnes of cargo in 2011’s the first six months, a 1% increase over last year’s first half.
The port authority said the report highlights stable performance in key sectors and follows a strong 2010, when records in key sectors were set.
Robin Silvester, Port Metro Vancouver’s president and CEO, said “As the year unfolds, it is clear that our strength lies in our diversity. We are pleased to see a renewed national focus on the importance of improving Canada's trade and opportunities with rapidly growing Asian economies.
“Demand from Asian economies continues to be the cornerstone of the Port's success, and will drive our business in the future.”
Exports of forest products, potash and coal to growing Asian economies continue to increase. Total foreign tonnage rose 1% year-to-date to 46.1 million tonnes.
Ed Fast, minister of international trade for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, said “The Asia-Pacific Gateway is critical to Canada's long-term economic prosperity. Port Metro Vancouver is a key link that is positioning Canada to take advantage of the Asia-Pacific markets crucial to creating economic growth, jobs and prosperity for British Columbians and all Canadians."
Overall, volumes were up 16% in the cruise sector; container traffic increased 5%; bulk cargo was up 1%.
Auto volumes dropped 28%, due to the continuing impact of the tsunami-nuclear meltdown disaster in Japan.
Breakbulk cargo was also down, 6% overall; however, foreign breakbulk exports increased 12% increase due to the strength in demand for Canadian forest products.
Jennifer Harrison