Port Houston closed November on track for a record year despite decreased monthly volumes due to seasonal and market trends.
The Port handled 4,186,264 short tons in November, which was down 15% compared to the same month last year, but remains up 4% in total tonnage year-to-date, with 50,383,531 short tons.
Container activity also slowed. TEUs through the public terminals were down 9% for the month, with a total of 335,275 TEUs. Loaded imports softened with a 12% decline, and loaded exports dipped 2% in November.
However, resin and other Gulf-region manufactured goods continue to support strong export activity, resulting in a year-to-date increase of 8% in loaded exports.
Through November, Port Houston has handled 3,971,643 total TEUs, a solid 5% year-to-date gain that keeps Port Houston on track for another record container year.
Activity at purpose-built facilities showed similar market dynamics.
General cargo declined 4% year-to-date, reflecting softer project and breakbulk activity. Steel also fell in November, contributing to a 6% decline year-to-date, though steel volumes remain up 5% for the year.
The Houston region is seeing economic momentum through investment and expansion in industrial space and Foreign Trade Zone-ready real estate.
According to the Greater Houston Partnership, the development pipeline now includes 157 active projects, 54% of those tied to manufacturing and logistics infrastructure, and representing $52.7 billion in capital investment.
Charlie Jenkins, Port Houston CEO, commented Houston is good for business and the Houston Ship Channel is a major factor in that by connecting those businesses to the world the number one waterway in the nation by far for good reason.
Port Houston recently refined and updated its Strategic Plan to reflect strengthened purpose as a public authority and an expanding role across the Houston Ship Channel.
The plan also demonstrates long-term commitment to future-ready infrastructure.
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