The Port handled 2.6 million freight vehicles in 2016 with freight volumes increasing by 32% in just the last four years.
“As we continue to handle more UK trade, the Port welcomes the prime minister’s statement on the Government’s headline negotiating position for Brexit. Greater certainty of the broad parameters is a positive step forward,” commented Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover.
He added: “Any changes brought forward to the country’s trading relationship need to be mindful of the UK’s absolute need to maintain the rapid transit of goods and passengers through Dover and our sister ports on the European mainland.
“The Port and the CBI remain clear that a barrier-free relationship with the EU – our largest, closest and most important trading partner – must be a critical outcome of the negotiations to ensure we make a success of Brexit.”
The Port of Dover handles up to £119bn of trade or 17% of the UK’s trade in goods.