Port Houston’s container traffic reached an all-time high of 4,139,991 TEUs in 2024, representing an 8% increase from the previous year.
December alone saw 340,418 TEUs, a 4% year-over-year rise. Loaded exports soared 12% in December to 135,446 TEUs, driven by high shipments of resin, chemicals, rubber, and textiles, ending the year up 8%.
While loaded imports dipped 1% in December, they grew 6% annually, fueled by strong demand for consumer goods in one of the US fastest-growing regions. Notably, refrigerated cargo imports saw a 15% year-over-year increase.
“Houston is at the heart of our nation’s trade, connecting our region to global markets,” pointed out Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston. “Port Houston’s public terminals have been integral to this success, and we are proud of the new tonnage record set this year. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our team, our strong partnership with labor and key stakeholders, and our commitment to providing our customers a low cost and high efficiency solution.”
Through November 2024, imports from China made up 34% of Port Houston’s market share, rising 11% from 2023. Transatlantic trade also saw significant gains, with double-digit import growth from Belgium, Germany, and Spain.
In addition, Port Houston marked a historic year in 2024, handling a record-breaking 53.07 million tons of cargo at its public terminals—an increase of 6% over 2023.
Port Houston’s City Docks (multi-purpose terminals) handled 4.53 million short tons of steel in 2024—the second-highest volume in five years and third-highest in the last decade. The port’s adaptability was further showcased by significant increases in general cargo, with wind power equipment up 680%, plywood up 388%, and machinery up 45%.
Port Houston recently completed key segments of the Houston Ship Channel widening project, allowing 15,000 – 17,000 TEU class neo-Panamax vessels to access Bayport Container Terminal, enhancing the port’s capacity to accommodate larger ships and increasing trade efficiency.
“As we look toward 2025, all of us at Port Houston are confident in our planning and execution. We recently updated our strategic plan, which will guide our efforts to support this vital port complex and our customers as we continue to grow,” noted Jenkins. “While challenges may arise, we are deeply committed and we are well-positioned to welcome the growth of cargo in our region.”
