Port Houston handled 3.4 million TEUs through October of this year, 7 per cent more compared to the same period last year.
However, container volumes in October fell 15 per cent compared to last October, reaching 309,623 TEUs. Despite this slight dip, volumes are expected to be solid through the end of this year.
According to early market reports, activity is expected to surge in November and into the new year as users push volumes ahead of January’s labour contract expiration and the early Chinese New Year and factory closures in Asia.
In October, loaded imports decreased by 13 per cent and loaded exports dropped by 21 per cent compared to last year. Yet, total loaded container volumes remain up 6 per cent year-to-date, (YTD) with steady demand in critical sectors like resins and minerals.
READ: Port Houston reaches 3 million TEUs in record time
General cargo through Port Houston’s public terminals was down 5 per cent in October. Steel imports saw a 25 per cent drop for the month, reflecting a 7 per cent decrease in Texas onshore and offshore rig activity.
There have been notable YTD gains in wind power equipment, plywood, and fiberboard. Total tonnage across all Port Houston facilities is up 3 per cent YTD, totalling 43.6 tonnes.
“Port Houston’s performance throughout this year reflects our team’s resilience and adaptability amid challenging industry conditions,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston.
“We remain committed to serving our customers and growing Houston’s presence as a global hub for commerce.”
READ: Port Houston receives dry cargo vessel
Earlier this month, Port Houston unveiled a new Strategic Plan outlining its priorities for the coming years. The plan focuses on ensuring safe navigation, championing the Houston Ship Channel, and enhancing capacity, among other objectives.
A key component of the new Strategic Plan is continued investment in infrastructure designed to improve capacity, fluidity, and efficiency at the public terminals.
Recently, five new rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) arrived at Port Houston’s Barbours Cut Container Terminal, adding critical support for growing container volumes there. At Port Houston’s Bayport Container Terminal, an additional wharf is under construction, with expected completion in 2026.
