Record Year at Port Metro Vancouver
Port Metro Vancouver has released its 2014 year-end statistics, showing its second consecutive year of record-breaking cargo volumes.
According to the port, 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 metric tons of cargo in 2014, up three percent from 2013. Import cargo rose 4.1 percent to 27 million metric tons, and exports rose 3.3 percent to 108 million metric tons.
Completion of infrastructure programs and projects, 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 percent over 2013, with substantial increases in grain exports after a bumper crop year and strong international demand spurred an 18 percent increase in exports of wheat and 31 percent 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 7.4 million metric tons, a 14 percent increase from the previous year.
Container volumes continued to grow, with a 3.1 percent 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.
