“Container trade increased by 4.3% to reach 1.05 million teus, which is the first time the Port has exceeded one million teus in a calendar year,” Mr Keyte said.
“Import tonnage increased during the year by 1% overall, which was a result of modest economic growth in South-East Queensland over the last financial year.
“Overall export tonnage increased by 22% during 2012, led by strong demand for coal, cereals, scrap metal, and cotton to key markets.”
Machinery imports continued to grow in 2012 with the Port of Brisbane experiencing a significant increase as a result of major mining and resource projects underway in Queensland. In particular, agricultural and mining equipment imports increased by 28% to December 2012, reaching 671,000 tonnes.
Agricultural commodities also performed well during 2012, with more than 2.3 million tonnes of cereals and grains exported in bulk – an increase of 55% on 2011. Strong export numbers are predicted to continue in 2013, due to good growing conditions and continued international demand for high-quality Australian product.
Strong trade throughout 2012 saw containers exceed one million teus for the first time in a calendar year.