Vancouver sees 2010 volumes surge

 In a busy year for Canada's Pacific Gateway, Port Metro Vancouver achieved a total tonnage increase of 16 percent, delivering 118.4 million tonnes overall in 2010, according to a Lloyd Special Report.


Container traffic set a new record while overall export volumes were further strengthened by record-setting coal and grain volumes.


The 2010 year-end report shows that container traffic at Port Metro Vancouver has set an all-time record at 2.5 million TEUs, up 17 percent as demand for imported consumer goods continued and container exports returned to Asia with forest products and special crops.


Total foreign tonnage increased 18 percent to 93.3 million tonnes, with increased foreign exports to growing Asian economies continuing to lead the way.


"As Canada's largest port, Port Metro Vancouver delivered results that show the Asia-Pacific gateway strategy is working for the Canadian economy," said Chuck Strahl, Canada's Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.


"Exports to the Asia-Pacific markets continue to show great strength thanks to ongoing efforts of Port Metro Vancouver, terminal operators, the trucking and rail industries, and all levels of government,'' he said.


Total domestic tonnage also increased, to 25.1 million tonnes, up 10 percent over 2009.
(Source:http://www.cargonewsasia.com)