For the first time in its 105-year history, the Port of Vancouver USA has recorded more than 7 million metric tons of cargo across its docks.
The port recorded 7.49 million metric tons in 2016, nearly eight percent more than the 2015 record of 6.95 million metric tons.
2016 was great year for exports, which climbed to 6.32 million metric tons from 5.54 million metric tons in 2015 – a 14 percent increase overall. Grain continues to be the largest exports at the Port of Vancouver by volume, and in 2016 these cargoes increased 17.8 percent over 2015.
Some imports, such as wind energy components increased in 2016, but overall imports were down 17 percent in 2016.
Despite impressive gains in overall tonnage, fluctuations in currency and the global economy had an impact on the port in 2016, contributing to a slight decline in operating revenue, which decreased from $38.2 million to $35.9 million.
Leveraging revenue, federal and state grant funds and tax dollars, the port continues to invest in critical infrastructure and assets, including rail, equipment, buildings, dock improvements and skilled staff.
The Port of Vancouver USA has logged record tonnage for the past three years, and 2017 is shaping up to be another good year. 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.