The Port of Brisbane saw a trade increase in 2012, up by 11.7 per cent.
The Port of Brisbane said trade has remained strong despite challenging economic conditions.
General manager of trade services, Peter Keyte, said the diversity of commodities handled by the port helped to sustain strong results with total trade reaching 38.6 million tonnes.
“Container trade increased by 4.3% to reach 1.05 million teus, which is the first time the Port has exceeded one million teus in a calendar year,” Keyte said.
“Import tonnage increased during the year by 1% overall, which was a result of modest economic growth in South-East Queensland over the last financial year.
“Overall export tonnage increased by 22% during 2012, led by strong demand for coal, cereals, scrap metal, and cotton to key markets.”
Major mining and resource projects also meant machinery imports increased. Keyte said that agricultural and mining equipment imports increased by 28% to 671, 000 tonnes.
Keyte expects strong trade results to continue into 2013 due to good growing conditions and continued international demand for high-quality Australian products.
Image: portbris.com