TASPORTS has reported stable and steady trade volumes in its FY25 mid-year report, though a slight dip compared with the same period last financial year due to drydocking of Bass Strait vessels and challenges in the forestry sector.
The ports corporation said it had handled 7.27 million tonnes year-to-date, and that it is on track for an expected 14-15 million tonnes by the end of the financial year.
Despite a 1.2% decrease in the total trade volume compared with the same reporting period in FY24, growth in agriculture and industrial trade is driving stability, according to TasPorts.
Vegetable exports increased 30%, dairy exports were up 25% and general cargo imports rose 6.4%.
TasPorts said the growth reflects rising domestic consumption and demand for Tasmanian goods across Australian and international markets.
“While some sectors have faced temporary challenges, demand for Tasmanian produce and industrial goods have ensured we remain on track. We’re confident in seeing continued growth through the rest of the year,” TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said.
Containerised imports were dominated by general cargo, (93,760 TEU), followed by beverages (5298 TEU) and timber products (5000 TEU). Empty containers accounted for 23,916 TEU of the ports’ imports.
Exports were led by empties (55,904 TEU), general cargo (26,733) and foods-other (12,678 TEU).
Mr Donald said general cargo imports were up 6.4%, driven by retail and hospitality demand.
“The industrial sector was also up at 8.3%, driven by core manufacturing and resource-related industries, while agricultural exports were up 30% due to seasonal demand and increasing population growth in key cities and dairy exports up by 25%, supporting strong domestic and international demand,” Mr Donald said.
TasPorts had managed 1211 vessel visits at the time of reporting, consistent with last year’s performance of 2630 visits for the full year.
Mr Donald said dry docking of Bass Strait vessels contributed to minor fluctuations, but vessel activity is expected to normalise.
“Despite challenges in the forestry sector, Tasmania’s trade outlook remains positive. The state’s growing food exports and steady industrial trade highlight long-term growth potential,” he said.
Mr Donald said optimising container-sharing strategies and diversifying export markets are expected to strengthen Tasmania’s position.
“Tasmania’s exports continue to be in high demand, and with strategic improvements, there is confidence of a positive growth trajectory and long-term stability,” he said.
