THE LATEST trade update from Port of Melbourne indicates the port saw strong volumes in September as peak season continues.
Total container throughput for September was up 8.2% on the same month last year, with a total of 287,350 TEU crossing the wharves. Year-to-date container volumes are reportedly up 7.3%.
Full overseas imports increased by 10.8% since September last year, with strong trade flowing into peak season, with domestic appliances, non-electrical machinery, textiles, metal manufactures, toys, sporting goods and transport equipment all above last year’s volumes.
Full overseas exports were up 8.7% on September 2021, with wheat, cottonseed, raw cotton, nuts (almonds), malt and rice all above last year’s levels.
Total empty container movements were 4.3% above what they were in September 2021.
Port of Melbourne said in its update that container trade for early October is tracking above the comparative month in 2021.
“Globally, congestion and some delays remain, however schedule reliability continues to improve,” the update said.
“Container freight rates continued to decline throughout September, although still remaining above pre-pandemic levels.”
The port said trade volumes to Australia remain strong as peak season continues, with some vessel congestion still being seen at several ports impacted by severe weather events.
“Locally the supply chain remains resilient, and we continue to monitor the situation throughout the peak season.”
