Port Houston has handled 3,430,212 TEUs from January to October this year, marking a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
However, container volumes for October specifically declined by 15% year-over-year, reaching 309,623 TEUs. Despite this dip, overall volumes are expected to remain strong through the year’s end, according to the port.
In the previous month, loaded imports decreased by 13%, and loaded exports fell by 21% compared to October 2023. Nevertheless, total loaded container volumes are up 6% year-to-date, driven by steady demand in key sectors such as resins and minerals.
General cargo through Port Houston’s public terminals dropped 5% in October, with steel imports experiencing a 25% decline, reflecting a 7% decrease in Texas onshore and offshore rig activity.
Despite these monthly decreases, there have been notable year-to-date increases in wind power equipment, plywood, and fiberboard. Total tonnage across all Port Houston facilities has risen 3% year-to-date, amounting to 43,559,771 tons.
“Port Houston’s performance throughout this year reflects our team’s resilience and adaptability amid challenging industry conditions. We remain committed to serving our customers and growing Houston’s presence as a global hub for commerce. A new Strategic Plan, released earlier in November, outlines organizational priorities for Port Houston over the next years that include facilitating safe navigation, advocating for the Houston Ship Channel, and maximizing capacity, among other objectives,” stated Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston.
A critical element of Port Houston’s new Strategic Plan is sustained investment in infrastructure to enhance capacity, efficiency, and fluidity at its public terminals. Recent developments include the arrival of five new rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal, boosting support for growing container volumes.
At the Bayport Container Terminal, construction of an additional wharf is underway, with completion expected in 2026.
“This Strategic Plan recognizes the pivotal role we play in driving economic growth and fostering regional prosperity, and it will be our guide going forward,” noted Jenkins.
