On a roll: Port of Vancouver USA reports fourth consecutive year of record tonnage
Steel, wind energy and copper among cargoes on the increase in 2017
VANCOUVER, Wash. – For the fourth year in a row, the Port of Vancouver USA has logged record-breaking cargo tonnage, with 2017 coming in at 7.5 million metric tons, up slightly from the 2016 record of 7.49 million metric tons.
“Our sustained growth is a testament to the investments we and our partners have made in world-class rail and marine services, access to efficient transportation and excellent customer service,” said port CEO Julianna Marler. “I’m very proud of our continued success and the hard work of everyone who makes it happen, year after year.”
2017 was great year for imports, which climbed to 1.24 million metric tons from 1.17 million metric tons in 2016 – a 6.5 percent increase overall. Steel and dry-bulk commodities continue to be the largest imports at the Port of Vancouver by volume, and in 2017 these cargoes increased 14.8 percent and 47 percent, respectively.
Some exports, such as wheat and soybeans, increased in 2017, but overall exports were down one percent over 2016.
Fluctuations in currency and the global economy had an impact in 2017, but the port’s continued tonnage growth contributed to a slight increase in operating revenue from $35.9 million to $36 million.
2018 is shaping up to be another good year for the Port of Vancouver USA. Cargoes like autos, steel, minerals, wind energy components and grain continue to bring in solid numbers, making the future look bright for the port and our community.
– POV –
The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.