Container throughput at Port of Melbourne remains high

PORT of Melbourne continues to see big container volumes crossing its wharves, according to the latest trade statistics from the port. 

In April, the port reported a total container throughput of 267,994 TEU, an increase of 22.4% compared with April 2020. The port said container volumes for May continue to track well above 2020’s figures. 

Imports of full containers from overseas in April 2021 were up 19.9% in the same period last year. Furniture, domestic appliances, non-electrical machinery and textiles had the largest month-on-month variances for international imports.

Effects of COVID-19 restrictions

In a statement, the port said this reflects COVID-19 restrictions on travel and tourism continuing to redirect consumer spending to homeware-related commodities. It also reflects weak year-on-year comparables, as there were supply-chain disruptions this time last year due to COVID-19 restrictions.  

Exports of full containers to overseas markets increased 3.6% on April of last year, with non-ferrous metals; pulp and waste paper; and wheat as the biggest movers.  

Empty container movements were up 57.2% on April 2020, with year-to-date empty volumes up 19.6%. 

Full container trade between Melbourne and Tasmania, excluding transhipments, increased 3% on April last year to total 20,867 TEU. This was up 6.0% for the year to date. 

Port of Melbourne reported that full container transhipments were up 28.2% in April on the same month last year. It said recent changes to MSC’s Asia-Oceania network linking China, South East Asia, New Zealand and Australia generated more transhipments.  

Non-container trade

Motor vehicle imports were up 74%. Motor vehicle exports were up 191.7%, with improving demand in Tasmania and increased interstate transhipment. 

The port reported an increase of dry bulk trade of 61%, and an increase in liquid bulk of 19.9%. 

Commentary from the port accompanying the trade statistics said global shipping congestion remains an ongoing issue, with vessels continuing to call off-window and changing rotation due to delays throughout North East Asia and South East Asia.